18 12 031 Replacing front silencer (N18)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 MINI Cooper Paceman, 2015 MINI Cooper Paceman, 2014 MINI Cooper Paceman, and 2013 MINI Cooper. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Risk of burning!
Only perform this repair work after engine has cooled down.
Danger of injury!
Removal of the exhaust system must be carried out with the assistance of a second person.

Support exhaust system (1) with a suitable jack (2).

Protect the front and rear silencers from falling down.

Fig 1: Supporting Exhaust System With Suitable Jack

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NOTE: If the separation point is not marked by a punch mark in the pipe, determine the separation point by means of the pipe length on the new front silencer.

Carry over separation point to faulty front silencer and mark.

Secure front silencer against falling out.

Cut through exhaust pipes at marked point with a suitable tool.

Fig 2: Identifying Cutting Mark On Exhaust Pipes

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Unscrew nuts (1).

Tightening torque 18 31 7AZ .

Installation note:

Fit the holder to the new front silencer.

Fig 3: Identifying Exhaust System Nuts

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Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 18 31 9AZ .

Unscrew nuts (4).

Tightening torque 18 31 8AZ .

Remove reinforcement plate (2) and reinforcement strut (3).

Fig 4: Identifying Reinforcement Plate, Reinforcement Strut, Screws And Nuts

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Unfasten clamp.

Tightening torque 18 31 5AZ .

Lower front silencer and remove.

Fig 5: Identifying Clamp

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Installation note:

Fit front silencer and connect with clamp.

Center clamp and tighten down.

Tightening torque 18 31 6AZ .

Fig 6: Identifying Center Muffler With Clamps

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Installation note:

Check rubber mount for damage.

If necessary, replace damaged rubber mounts.

Check exhaust system for leak tightness.