2016 Mini Clubman problems
The Mini Clubman is a subcompact executive car engineered and manufactured by German automaker BMW and sold under the Mini marque. The first-generation Clubman was introduced in 2007, as a variant of the Mini Hatch (Hardtop in the US). A commercial version called Clubvan was added to the range in 2012. The current second-generation model has been in production since 2015 and available with front- and all-wheel drive.
History
The use of the name "Clubman" is a departure from Mini tradition. "Clubman" was originally the name given to the 1970s facelift of the classic Mini, which mostly resulted in a squared-off front end, whereas the classic Mini estates had traditionally been named "Traveller" or "Countryman". However, BMW did not initially purchase the rights to use those names, and so decided to call its larger-variant "Clubman", a name which it did own rights to.
Sketches of a new estate version of the Mini were shown at the 2000 Paris Motor Show, and a rendering of the estate concept (internally named EXT), wore the Clubman name on the licence plate. The Clubman started out in development based on the first generation Mini Hatch (R50) before changing to the second gen Hatch (R56).
Social links
Common 2016 Mini Clubman problems
The 2016 Mini Cooper S Clubman has been praised for its quirky design, plush interior, and peppy performance. However, some common problems have been reported by owners of this car, which are discussed below in detail.
- Overheating Engine: The Mini Clubman's low ground clearance makes it prone to damage from kerbs, which can cause coolant leaks and engine overheating. The radiator supports and main coolant hose are particularly susceptible to damage, and should be checked if the engine starts to overheat quickly.
- No Rear Parking Alert: The rear parking sensor is a common issue for the Clubman, and there doesn't seem to be a straightforward solution other than installing a new sensor. This is an easy DIY job, and replacement sensors are readily available.
- AC Failure: The air conditioning unit on the Clubman is prone to failure, but it's usually not necessary to replace the entire unit. In most cases, replacing the AC fan can resolve the issue. This is a fiddly job, but there are online guides available to help with the installation process.
- Cracked Windscreen: The Mini Clubman is particularly prone to windscreen chips, which can lead to cracks and MOT failures. It's important to address these issues promptly, as they will only get worse over time. There are kits available to seal chips and cracks, but in serious cases, a new windscreen may be required.
- Loss of Turbocharger: Excessive carbon build-up can cause serious damage to the oil pump, pickup pipe, and turbocharger on the Clubman's 1.6-litre diesel engines. If this issue is not addressed, it can lead to a complete loss of turbocharger power and a general drop in overall performance. Mini redesigned many of the engine parts to tackle this problem, and replacement parts are available to order.
- High Oil Pressure: The crankshaft bearings on the Clubman estate are prone to premature wear, which can cause high oil pressure and an odd rumbling sound when accelerating. If this issue is not addressed quickly, it can lead to serious damage to the rest of the engine. This was the cause of a recall, so if your car is affected, a Mini dealer should replace the bearings for free. If not, replacement bearings can be ordered and installed yourself.
- Terrible Smell from the Air Filter: Some owners have reported a terrible smell from the air filter, which the dealer has been unable to resolve. Mini has been accused of refusing to take responsibility for this issue, which can be a major inconvenience for drivers.
In summary, the 2016 Mini Cooper S Clubman has some common problems that owners should be aware of. These include rough engine idle, overheating engine, no rear parking alert, AC failure, cracked windscreen, loss of turbocharger, high oil pressure, and terrible smell from the air filter. While some of these issues can be resolved with simple fixes, others may require more extensive repairs. It's important for owners to stay vigilant and address any issues promptly to avoid further damage.
Is Mini Clubman a reliable car?
Used Mini Clubman: owners' reliability data
The general sentiment among owners is positive, with many praising the car for its reliability. Few issues were reported, and those that did arise were typically minor and promptly addressed by dealerships.
What engine is in a Mini Clubman 2016?
The 2016 Mini Clubman comes with a 1.5-liter, three-cylinder engine that makes 134 horsepower. The Cooper S Clubman has a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 189 horsepower. Both models come with a six-speed manual transmission and use premium gasoline.
Does a Mini Clubman have a BMW engine?
The Clubman John Cooper Works provides the thrills in the range, using the same 2.0-litre 302bhp four-cylinder turbo engine that drives the BMW M135i. This means a 0-62mph time of only 4.9 seconds, along with a top speed of 155mph - proper hot hatch numbers.
What is the most common problem with Mini Cooper?
Issue #1: Engine Overheating in Mini Cooper S (2007-2010)
Oil cooler leaks have also been reported on some vehicles. These problems cause the engine to gradually overheat, leading to coolant loss and severe damage if left unchecked. Head gasket failure is a common result of the engine overheating in the R56 Cooper S.
2016 Mini Clubman car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mini Clubman problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Service brakes problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Mini Clubman vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2016 Mini Clubman complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Mini Clubman.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-07
- VIN: WMWLN9C59G2
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I am writing to formally express my concerns regarding a 2016 Mini Cooper Clubman S that I purchased in August of the previous year, with 64,000 miles on the odometer. Within just two months of ownership, the vehicle began to exhibit serious mechanical failures. Initially, the water pump failed and had to be replaced. Shortly thereafter, the air conditioning system on the left side malfunctioned. Most alarmingly, the engine suddenly stopped and began to overheat while on the road, necessitating an emergency stop at a nearby mechanic's workshop. The diagnosis revealed a catastrophic engine block failure, with a crack that caused the antifreeze, oil, and possibly fuel to mix—an issue that could potentially lead to a vehicle fire. This vehicle is primarily driven by my wife, who frequently transports our [XXX] son, who is [XXX]. The potential risks had this occurred on a highway are unimaginable and could have led to fatal consequences. Upon discovering these issues, I immediately contacted Mini to inform them of the defect and requested a comprehensive diagnostic examination. I emphasized the possibility that this could be a production line issue, which might affect other vehicles and thereby pose a significant risk to other families. Regrettably, the response I received was dismissive; I was informed that nothing could be done, and my request for a vehicle inspection was outright denied. Given the severity of these issues and the potential risk to human life, I urge your immediate intervention. It is imperative that this matter be revisited and that a thorough investigation into this potential production defect be conducted. Ensuring the safety of all consumers must be a priority, and I respectfully request that my vehicle be inspected at the earliest to prevent any potential future tragedies. Please advise on how we might proceed in this matter. I look forward to your prompt response. Yours sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
- VIN: WMWLN5C51G2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: This vehicle has the same environmental air catalyst sensor as in the recall SIM 01 05 20 from the NTHSA however the engine number is different and isn't therefore covered. The failure started about 3 months ago and I've been back and forth with Mini about it. The vehicle has <75k miles. It's available to be inspected. It has been confirmed by a dealer.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-04
- VIN: WMWLN5C51G2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My vehicle has this known problem by BMW and is not covered. Should be recalled! SIM 13 01 19 LIN BUS COMMUNICATION FAULT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AIR CATALYST (EAC) SENSOR FC1B8302 The chemical composition of the fan shroud contaminates the EAC sensor. There is a loss of LIN-Bus communication (signal) from the EAC Sensor that is permanently mounted on the engine radiator due to corrosion that develops over time. CORRECTION Replace the radiator with EAC sensor and, if necessary, replace the fan shroud.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-03
- VIN: WMWLN9C59G2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 1. 2016 Mini Cooper S Clubman's Head Unit is inoperable which provides vehicle information such as, Backup Camera, Oil Pressure, Tire Pressure, Maintenance Schedule(s), Hands-Free (Bluetooth) connection, Emergency Call Roadside Assistance, Brake Pads early warning due to brake pad sensors, and vehicle setting are displaying "No Signal", therefore making it virtually impossible to know the status of the vehicle when operating the vehicle. 2. The Emergency Brake (Finger Press UP to "Lock" and Down to "Release". When emergency brake is applied, it will "Not" release even on level pavement, therefore taking up 30 minutes or more before releasing to drive.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-07
- VIN: Wmwln5c56g2
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have taken my 2016 Mini Cooper clubman in to the dealership multiple times for recalls. After I got my back now it’s saying that my drivetrain needs to be repaired and when I put fuel into my car the car studders to start. I have to turn it on and off like 3 times before I can even leave the gas station. My car also is telling me that I need to secure my vehicle with the parking brake when stopped because the transmission is not in park. I have also attached the codes I was receiving when I did a computer scan of why the check engine light was on. Please help me somebody!!! Thanks I’m advance!!!
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1975-08-19
- VIN: WMWLN9C59G2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE COUPLE OF YEARS AGO AND REAR LIGHTS ON BUMPER ARE NON FUNCTIONAL WHEN BREAKING
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-25
- VIN: WMWLN5C5XG2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING BEHIND MY GIRLFRIEND WHO WAS DRIVING MY 2016 MINI CLUBMAN, WHEN I NOTICED THE BRAKE LIGHTS APPEARED TO NOT BE WORKING... I TOOK THE MINI CLUBMAN TO THE DEALERSHIP THE NEXT DAY, SHOWED THEM THE PROBLEM AND THE INSPECTOR SAID HE WOULD GET IT FIXED BY THEIR SERVICE TEAM. AFTER THEY HAD IT FOR 24 HOURS, THEY CALLED TO TELL ME THAT THE WAY THE LIGHTS WERE WORKING IS THE CORRECT LIGHT PATTERN FOR THIS VEHICLE. THEY WERE ALSO STUMPED BECAUSE THEY FELT THIS WASN'T THE BEST BRAKE LIGHTING FOR A VEHICLE BUT UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION THEY DETERMINED THAT ALL MINI COOOPER CLUBMANS HAVE THIS BRAKE LIGHTING. IFEEL THE BRAKE LIGHTS ARE DIFFICULT TO SEE AND WHY ARE THEY SO LOW? WHY COULDN'T MINI UTILIZE THE UPPER BIG RED LIGHTS FOR BRAKE LIGHTS? I WAS DRIVING BEHIND THE MINI IN A TRUCK AND IT WAS DIFFICULT TO SEE THE BRAKE LIGHTS. I THINK THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL AND THEY SHOUDL FIX THIS BRAKE LIGHT ISSUE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-10
- VIN: WMWLN5C56G2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: LIGHTING RIGHT STOP BUMPER, THE BULB HOLDER DAMAGE
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-20
- VIN: WMWLN9C56G2
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE BARN STYLE TAILGATE DOORS SWING OPEN WHILE DRIVING. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON A NUMBER OF OCCASIONS, INCLUDING WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY. IF PRESSURE IS ACCIDENTALLY APPLIED TO THE REMOTE, ONE OF THE DOORS WILL SWING OPEN UNEXPECTEDLY, POTENTIALLY CAUSING ACCIDENTS.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-20
- VIN: WMWZC3C55GW
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: PURCHASED A FACTORY DEMO MINI COUNTRYMAN DEC, 28TH 2016 WITH 4,599 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. THE FACTORY SUPPLIED TIRES ARE GOODYEAR EFFICIENCY GRIP RUN FLAT 225/45/R18. AT APPRX 13,000 DURING SERVICE AT THE DEALERSHIP I WAS SHOWN A "BUBBLE" IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDEWALL. NO DAMAGE TO RIM NOR WAS THERE ANY COSMETIC INDICATIONS OF AN IMPACT. TIRE IS CRACKING AROUND THE EGG SIZED BUBBLE. IT IS INCREDIBLE HOW LARGE THIS IS CONSIDERING I HAVE BEEN IN THE AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESS FOR 21 YEARS. TODAY APPRX 6 HOURS AGO I NOTICED A SMALLER BUT EQUALLY ALARMING "BUBBLE" IN THE SIDEWALL OF THE FRONT DRIVER TIRE. SINCE FINDING THE 2ND COMPROMISED SIDEWALL, A QUICK INTERNET SEARCH SHOWS THIS IS A TIRE WITH A HUGE REPUTATION FOR "SIDEWALL GOOSE EGGS". THIS IS A HUGE FINANCIAL BLOW FOR OUR LARGE BARELY MIDDLE CLASS FAMILY. I AM APPALLED AT THE NONEXISTENT WARRANTY TIRE MANUFACTURERS ACTUALLY HAVE TO BACK UP. A DANGEROUS PRODUCT AND THE CONSUMER IS PENALIZED. LIFE THREATENING PRODUCTS SHOULD BE A NO QUESTIONS ASKED REPLACEMENT WITH LABOR COSTS COVERED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-23
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WMWLN5C52G2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY MINI WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT ON SEPT. 23, 2016, THE FRONT/BACK AIRBAGS ON THE DRIVERS SIDE DEPLOYED. THE DEALERSHIP IS TAKING AN UNREASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME TO DELIVER THE PARTS TO THE COLLISION COMPANY. I HAVE BEEN WAITING SINCE JAN/2017 FOR THE PARTS TO MY CAR. SINCE THE LEFT/RIGHT FRONT AIRBAGS ARE RECALLS, IS THERE A SAFETY ISSUE AND WHY IS IT TAKING 6 MONTHS TO RECEIVE THEM?
2016 Mini Clubman recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2016 Mini Clubman.
- Manufacturer: Curt Manufacturing LLC
- Components: TRAILER HITCHES
- Summary: Curt Manufacturing LLC (Curt) is recalling certain Class 1 trailer hitches, part number 11451, sold for installation on 2016-2018 Mini Cooper Clubman and Countryman vehicles. The vehicles may have inadequate structure points for the trailer hitch mounting, causing the hitch to sag under to certain loads and possibly separate from the vehicle.
- Consequence: If the trailer hitch sags or separates from the vehicle, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Curt will notify owners, and dealers will provide a replacement hitch, free of charge. The recall began on October 20, 2017. Owners may contact Curt customer service at 1-800-798-0813.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 MINI Clubman vehicles manufactured August 19, 2015, through July 14, 2016. The side curtain air bags for the front seat occupants may deploy in the intended positions in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Consequence: If a side curtain air bag does not inflate as intended in the event of a crash, there is an increased risk of injury to the front seat occupants.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will modify the driver and passenger side curtain air bag covers, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin September 12, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2016 Mini Clubman problems:
What issues are common with a Clubman (F54) S? : r/MINI
Oct 22, 2022 ... The upper engine mount is the only real common-ish issue. It can crack as it's rubber, and suffers from the relatively high torque. It's only a ...
Common issues: 2016 Mini Hardtop 4 door HB S - North American ...
Jun 14, 2020 ... The only common enough issue which has surfaced plenty of occasions is the engine motor mount, particularly the passenger side mount. This is an ...
2016 MINI Clubman Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2016 MINI Clubman? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
MINI Mini Clubman: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard ...
MINI Mini Clubman Common Problems and Solutions · Rough Engine Idle · Overheating Engine · No Rear Parking Alert · AC Failure · Cracked Windscreen · Loss Of ...
Used Mini Clubman - 2015-2024 Reliability & Common Problems ...
Feb 13, 2024 ... In the family car class, it ranked third out of 29 cars. Its confidence-inspiring reliability rating of 97.9% makes it more reliable than the ...
Other years of Mini Clubman
Are you having problems with your 2016 Mini Clubman?
Leave your review of 2016 Mini Clubman