The dreaded P1062 code on a Mini Cooper can be a source of anxiety for any owner. This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) points to an issue with the variable valve timing (VVT) system, specifically the intake camshaft control. Recently, a 2008 Mini Cooper Justa with 122,000 miles experienced this issue after sitting outside in frigid New Hampshire weather for an extended period. The car exhibited symptoms like reduced power, emissions warnings, and a check engine light (CEL). An Ultra-Gauge diagnostic tool confirmed the P1062 code.
This particular Mini Cooper had been starting without issue throughout most of the winter, despite the cold. However, after two heavy snowstorms, the P1062 code appeared. After bringing the car into a semi-heated garage (around 40°F) for a few hours, allowing it to warm up and melt off accumulated snow, the issue seemingly vanished. The CEL disappeared, and the car drove normally.
Could cold weather be the primary culprit behind this P1062 code? One theory suggests that oil viscosity thickens in extreme cold, potentially hindering proper oil flow to the VVT system components. In this case, the oil had been changed by a dealership several months prior, with approximately 800 miles driven since. While there was no visible sludge buildup in the oil fill hole, the type of oil used remains uncertain.
Considering the circumstances, an oil change with full synthetic oil designed for cold weather performance might be a proactive solution. Full synthetic oil maintains better viscosity in low temperatures, ensuring optimal lubrication for critical engine components like the VVT system. This, in turn, could prevent future occurrences of the P1062 code during cold weather. Further observation and potential oil analysis could provide more conclusive evidence.
Changing the oil and filter is a relatively simple maintenance task that can be performed by a qualified mechanic or even a DIY enthusiast. If the P1062 code persists after an oil change, further diagnosis might be necessary to rule out other potential causes, such as faulty solenoids, wiring issues, or even mechanical problems within the VVT system itself. However, given the correlation between the cold weather and the appearance and subsequent disappearance of the code, addressing the oil viscosity seems like a logical first step.
