Hampton Roads Club Mini

I've been hearing about timing chain issues with 2nd Gen MC's. I'm curious if anyone has had an issue with one, or knows someone who has and what were the symptoms that lead to checking into the timing chain? I'm not saying I have an issue, but something under the hood/bonnet seems a bit noisier at 50,000 miles than it did when I bought my 2007 MCS with 44,000 miles both inside and outside the car.

My build date says 10/07. I've read some articales on the cold start/death rattle and I'm not sure if that is what is going on, but I'd like to find out now before something really goes wrong down the road(literaly). I'm not all that versed in these engines so I don't know if it's the timing chain/tensioner, or if it's normal fuel injector noise, or maybe a cold valve train(sometimes hear it hot to). I'd like to get an expert opinion prior to taking my car in to Checkered Flag and complaining about it as I'm sure based on my first experience there with my a/c I'll be told that they can't find anything wrong. Even with 50,000 miles I'm still covered as the dealership I bought my car from in Culpepper was a Toyota dealership and I purchased an extended warranty from Toyota and Checkered Flag is also a Toyota dealer(that's why I bought the warranty). I have a 830 mile trip coming up at Christmas time and I'd like some reassurance.

We put a timing chain in Tylers 07 MCS at about 35K miles. I've even had it on my 09 Clubbie. Mostly when it's COLD outside. Heard it yesterday in Monterey. I've heard it from CF staff as well as Way at Way Motor Works that the tensioners give up, Actually saw Tylers,you could put it together with  your hands. The new OEM part you REALLY had to pressure it to give, so there was a massive difference. Also, the chain does stretch, so there are several issues with the second gen cars.

I had the same issue on my '09 Clubman early on. Can't remember the mileage. Crown said it was "normal". Stopped at MINI of Loveland, Co, for another issue, when out there for MITM/MTTS and mentioned it to them. They said it was the timing chain tensioner, but would have to order the parts. Since I was on vacation, that wouldn't work. Took it back to Crown, and they acknowledged there was a problem. Fixed it under warranty. Problem solved. I just traded for a '11 Countryman S All4 and the clubman was running fine at the time of the trade, 57.8 k miles.

I learned what was causing the noise from White Roof Radio.

Tell them what you just said here.  It's making an abnormal noise that several people who are experienced with Minis have told you is the timing chain tensioner(s) and you want it fixed under warranty or recall.  If nothing else, they will document that you complained about it on XX date and time and then if it goes outside of the warranty, you have some recourse.