Mini Cooper convertible problems

General information about Mini Cooper convertible
Mini Cooper convertible years list
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

The Mini (stylised as MINI) supermini range, marketed under various names such as Mini Cooper, Mini Hatch, Mini Hardtop, Mini One, and Mini John Cooper Works, are a family of retro-styled three-door hatchback, two-door convertible, and five-door hatchback (since 2014). The range was introduced in July 2001, following the acquisition of the Mini brand by German automaker BMW.

BMW first unveiled the Mini hatch concept car at the 1997 Frankfurt International Motor Show, when the Mini brand was still part of the BMW-owned Rover Group. Developed as a successor to the original Mini, the styling of the concept car was well received by the public and further developed. The new Mini range was launched by BMW in 2001, one year after their sale of the Rover Group in March 2000, and the classic Mini's discontinuation that same year. Under BMW ownership, the brand later grew its line-up by adding larger models such as the Clubman in 2007, the Countryman in 2010, the Paceman in 2012, and the Aceman in 2024.

The second generation was launched in 2006 and the third, adding a longer 4/5-door hatchback, in 2014. A two-door convertible version was added in 2004, followed by its second generation in 2008. With the launch of the fourth generation in 2024, the Mini Hatch has been renamed to Mini Cooper.

BMW also developed several battery electric versions of the Mini, starting with the Mini E in 2009 developed only for field trials, followed by the mass-produced Mini Electric in 2019, and succeeded by the Mini Cooper E/SE in 2023 which uses a dedicated electric vehicle platform.

Mini models under BMW ownership are produced in Cowley, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom at Plant Oxford. Between July 2014 and February 2024, 3-door production was shared with VDL Nedcar in Born, Netherlands. The Mini convertible was only assembled in the Netherlands between 2015 and 2024. From 2024, all next generation combustion engined Mini hatch and convertible production will be centred at Oxford. Since late 2023, the electric Mini Cooper is developed and produced in China at the Spotlight Automotive joint venture facility in Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu.

photo of Mini Cooper convertible car production

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Common Mini Cooper convertible problems

The MINI Cooper Convertible, like any vehicle, is prone to certain problems. If you own or are considering purchasing a MINI Cooper Convertible, it is essential to be aware of these common issues, particularly those related to the convertible feature.

Mechanical problems are one of the most common issues faced by MINI Cooper Convertible owners. The mechanics of a convertible top are intricate and expensive. If you are considering buying a MINI Cooper Convertible, it is advisable to test the top several times before making a purchase decision. Mechanical issues with a convertible can be costly to repair due to the complexity of the mechanisms involved.

Leaks are another common problem with MINI Cooper Convertibles. Natural causes, such as weather and wear and tear, can affect the top, leading to holes or deterioration. If you are a potential buyer, it is recommended to test the top for leaks by spraying or hosing water on it. While it may seem odd, it is essential to ensure the top is watertight.

Noise is also a common problem with MINI Cooper Convertibles, particularly wind noise. An easy solution to this problem is to purchase a wind deflector, which can be installed without the need to visit a MINI Cooper shop.

In addition to these convertible-specific issues, MINI Cooper models, including the Convertible, are prone to other common problems. For instance, the front lower control arm bushings tend to stretch over time, leading to uneven front tire wear and a steering wheel that feels erratic. If your MINI Cooper has more than 80,000 miles, it is recommended to replace these bushings with Powerflex Performance Front Lower Control arm Bushings for better performance and longevity.

The overflow tanks in the W11 (Cooper S engine) are also known to fail, causing the engine to sound like it's riding on rocks due to low coolant pressure. If you see oil and residue around the base of the mount or on the body just below it, replace it immediately.

Automatic transmissions, particularly in models produced before 2010, can fail at barely over 100,000 miles

The timing chain in MINI Cooper vehicles tends to loosen and wear down over time, causing strange noises, engine vibrations, or power loss. It is crucial to have this issue repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the vehicle and the engine.

Airbags are another common problem in MINI Cooper vehicles. In 2015, Mini Cooper was affected by the widespread Takata airbag problem, which may cause airbags not to deploy properly.

Power steering problems have also been reported in several Mini Cooper models, leading to an unexpected and unpredictable loss of power steering while on the road, which could lead to damage, injury, or even vehicle fires.

In summary, MINI Cooper Convertibles, like any vehicle, are prone to certain common problems. It is essential to be aware of these issues, particularly those related to the convertible feature, and to take necessary precautions to prevent or address them. Regular maintenance and inspections can help ensure the longevity and reliability of your MINI Cooper Convertible.

Are MINI Cooper convertibles reliable?

Is a used Mini Convertible sports reliable? The Mini managed to get a decent ranking result of ninth out of 28 value and small cars in our latest What Car? Reliability survey. Mini as a brand has risen up the rankings in recent years and finished in third place out of 32 car manufacturers; a great result.

What is the most common problem with a MINI Cooper?

Turbo failures are common due to high oil change intevals recommended by MINI. Don't go beyond 7500 with synthetic regardless of what MINI said or says. At one time they were recommending 15,000 oil changes and as a results tens of thousands of turbos failed due to crappy thin oil or NO oil.

What year is the Mini Cooper convertible best?

The MINI Cooper Convertible is a fun vehicle, and it's well worth the investment if you pick the right year. We recommend the 2014, 2015, 2017, 2020, 2021, and 2022 options for the best MINI value your money can buy.

How long do mini convertibles last?

A typical Mini Cooper will probably last about 10-18 years on average, for most drivers. That's a long time compared with older vehicles, but not as long as some of the most durable brands, like Toyota or Honda can offer on some of their vehicles.

Latest 5 recalls Mini Cooper convertible

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the Mini Cooper convertible.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Mini Cooper convertible 2006
Report Received Date: 2015-04-06
Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2006 MINI Cooper and Cooper S vehicles manufactured January 5, 2005, to November 28, 2006, and 2005-2008 MINI Cooper Convertible and Cooper S Convertible vehicles manufactured January 5, 2005, to July 31, 2008. Due to manufacturing, installation, and exposure issues, the front passenger seat occupant detection mat may not function properly and, as a result, the front passenger air bag may not deploy in a crash.
Consequence: An improperly functioning mat may cause the passenger frontal air bag to be inactive when the seat is occupied, and in the event of a crash, the air bag will not deploy, increasing the passenger's risk of injury.
Remedy: MINI will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger seat occupant detection mat, free of charge. The recall began on October 12, 2015. Owners may contact MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525.

Model: Mini Cooper convertible 2008
Report Received Date: 2015-04-06
Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2006 MINI Cooper and Cooper S vehicles manufactured January 5, 2005, to November 28, 2006, and 2005-2008 MINI Cooper Convertible and Cooper S Convertible vehicles manufactured January 5, 2005, to July 31, 2008. Due to manufacturing, installation, and exposure issues, the front passenger seat occupant detection mat may not function properly and, as a result, the front passenger air bag may not deploy in a crash.
Consequence: An improperly functioning mat may cause the passenger frontal air bag to be inactive when the seat is occupied, and in the event of a crash, the air bag will not deploy, increasing the passenger's risk of injury.
Remedy: MINI will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger seat occupant detection mat, free of charge. The recall began on October 12, 2015. Owners may contact MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525.

Model: Mini Cooper convertible 2007
Report Received Date: 2015-04-06
Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2006 MINI Cooper and Cooper S vehicles manufactured January 5, 2005, to November 28, 2006, and 2005-2008 MINI Cooper Convertible and Cooper S Convertible vehicles manufactured January 5, 2005, to July 31, 2008. Due to manufacturing, installation, and exposure issues, the front passenger seat occupant detection mat may not function properly and, as a result, the front passenger air bag may not deploy in a crash.
Consequence: An improperly functioning mat may cause the passenger frontal air bag to be inactive when the seat is occupied, and in the event of a crash, the air bag will not deploy, increasing the passenger's risk of injury.
Remedy: MINI will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger seat occupant detection mat, free of charge. The recall began on October 12, 2015. Owners may contact MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525.

Model: Mini Cooper convertible 2005
Report Received Date: 2015-04-06
Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2006 MINI Cooper and Cooper S vehicles manufactured January 5, 2005, to November 28, 2006, and 2005-2008 MINI Cooper Convertible and Cooper S Convertible vehicles manufactured January 5, 2005, to July 31, 2008. Due to manufacturing, installation, and exposure issues, the front passenger seat occupant detection mat may not function properly and, as a result, the front passenger air bag may not deploy in a crash.
Consequence: An improperly functioning mat may cause the passenger frontal air bag to be inactive when the seat is occupied, and in the event of a crash, the air bag will not deploy, increasing the passenger's risk of injury.
Remedy: MINI will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger seat occupant detection mat, free of charge. The recall began on October 12, 2015. Owners may contact MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525.

Model: Mini Cooper convertible 2009
Report Received Date: 2009-04-30
Manufacturer: BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC
Components: TIRES
Summary: BMW IS RECALLING 12 MY 2009 MINI COOPER CONVERTIBLE VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE DELIVERED WITH 15-INCH WHEELS INSTEAD OF 16-INCH WHEELS AS INTENDED, AND THE TIRE LABEL INDICATES 16 INCH WHEELS.
Consequence: THE WHEELS ON THE VEHICLE DO NOT CONFORM TO THE TIRE LABEL AS REQUIRED.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE 15 INCH WHEELS WITH 16-INCH WHEELS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-866-646-4772.