Mini Cooper countryman problems
The Mini Countryman, also called Mini Crossover in Japan, is a subcompact crossover SUV, the first vehicle of this type to be launched by BMW under the Mini marque. It was launched in 2010 and received a facelift in 2014. The second generation vehicle was released in 2017.
Pre-production concepts
The Mini Crossover Concept previewed the design of the Countryman. It has four doors (2 right swing open, 1 left swing open, 1 left lift/sliding) and four single seats. It was unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor Show.
The 2010 Mini Beachcomber Concept was based on the Crossover Concept and the Mini Countryman, with no doors and no conventional roof. It included ALL4 all-wheel drive and offroad wheels. It was unveiled at the 2010 North American International Auto Show.
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Mini Cooper countryman model years
Common Mini Cooper countryman problems
The Mini Cooper Countryman is a popular compact SUV known for its stylish looks, responsive handling, and competent engine power. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to problems. Here are some of the most common issues reported by Mini Cooper Countryman owners, based on complaints from platforms such as carproblems.com, carcomplaints.com, and Car Talk Community:
- Engine fires: Several Mini Cooper Countryman owners have reported engine fires, which can be a serious safety hazard. The cause of these fires is not always clear, but they can be related to electrical issues or other mechanical problems.
- Exploding sunroof: Some Mini Cooper Countryman models, particularly the 2013 model, have been reported to have sunroofs that can shatter or explode, often accompanied by a loud noise. This issue is typically caused by faulty glass or manufacturing defects.
- Transmission problems: Numerous Mini Cooper Countryman models are susceptible to transmission issues, which can manifest as abnormal noises, delayed shifting, excessive vibrations, or acceleration jumps. Regular transmission checks are recommended to address these problems.
- Engine overheats: The 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman has been reported to have an engine that tends to overheat, often due to faulty core plugs or coolant leaks. This can lead to symptoms like illuminated check engine lights, coolant leakage, or blown head gaskets.
- Internal oil leaks: The 2012 Mini Countryman has also been reported to have internal oil leaks, which can be hard to detect and may result in a short circuit and severe damage.
- Tie rods: A small number of Mini Countrymans made between 29 March and 8 April 2019 have an issue where the tie rods on the front suspension were not assembled correctly. This can lead to steering issues and may require a dealer check-up and rectification.
- Crankshaft sensor: Some examples built from 19 May and 9 June 2018 could have a problem with the crankshaft sensor, which could lead to the engine going into an emergency reduced power mode and limiting performance.
- Swivel bearings: A manufacturing flaw with the swivel bearings on the front suspension could lead to fractures in the part over time, affecting vehicles made between 24 April and 1 May 2018.
- Crash protection plate: 1.5-litre petrol models manufactured between 2 January 2017 and 25 May 2018 may lack a plate to protect the high-pressure fuel pump in the event of a collision. If your car is affected, it'll need to have this plate retrofitted at a dealer.
While these problems can be concerning, it is important to note that the Mini Cooper Countryman has a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability score from RepairPal, indicating that it is generally a reliable vehicle. Proper maintenance and regular checks can help ensure that your Mini Cooper Countryman remains in good condition and continues to provide reliable performance over time.
Is the Mini Cooper Countryman a reliable car?
With proper maintenance, the Mini Cooper Countryman can last over 150,000 miles with little to no problems. Some of the top Mini Cooper Countryman problems include transmission problems, clutch issues, and an exploding sunroof.
What are common faults with Mini Countryman?
MINI Countryman Common Problems and Solutions
- Fuel pump failure. Problem: The high pressure fuel pump on the 1.6L petrol engine is known for failing. ...
- Engine rattling noise. Problem: Have you been hearing a rattling noise coming from the engine? ...
- Temperature sensor failure. Problem: ...
- Erratic engine idling. Problem:
What year is the Mini Cooper Countryman to avoid?
Quick Answer: Avoid MINI Countryman Year Models 2011 - 2013
Even though most MINI Countryman models are highly reliable, the 2011, 2012, and 2013 models have serious safety hazards. We recommend avoiding these year models as they have been reported as having engine failures, fires, and other hazardous defects.
What is the life expectancy of a Mini Countryman?
131,000mi
What is Mini Countryman lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Mini Countryman is 131,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mini Cooper countryman years
We have researched Mini problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mini Cooper countryman cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Mini Cooper countryman model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mini Cooper countryman model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mini Cooper countryman years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mini Cooper countryman car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mini Cooper countryman , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mini Cooper countryman vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cooper countryman model years
A total of 5 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cooper countryman model years
There were a total of 18 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cooper countryman model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 204 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mini Cooper countryman . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mini Cooper countryman vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mini Cooper countryman 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: WMWSU3C56DT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: Passenger occupancy sensor malfunctions all the time and there are hundreds of claims regarding this issue but was never addressed by the manufacturer The same issue prompted a recall in older models but has not been corrected in newer ones
Mini Cooper countryman 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: WMWZB3C59CW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: No warning lights have come on and the car is braking on its own. I try to push the gas and it doesn't want to go. The car has around 42k miles on it. I took it to tom bush mini last week, the said the front axle was leaking some fluid, they ordererd the axle, changed all brake pads, changed the brake fluid and said it was good to go, cost about $2300. Got the car back, doing the same thing. Now they said all calipers need to be replaced and the hydro unit dsc needs to be replaced which will cost around $6400 and they can't get the hyro unit dsc or 2 months. If this was the problem why didn't they know last week? It doesn't seem like the car has enough miles to have such a big issues and no part for 2 months. I don't know what to do.
Mini Cooper countryman 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: WMWSU3C53DT
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
- Summary: As per NHTSA there was a recall the replace OC3 SEAT OCCUPANCY MAT but I never received recall notice and just passed 10 years with 40K millage and started getting air bag light, dealer is not replacing it under warranty, if they was a recall they should have replaced my seat earlier so that I would not have this issue today. is there a way to extend warranty to longer time or recall all the cars and replace them so that we do not have to spend 2k to replace it? "01 11 16_OC3 SEAT OCCUPANCY MAT: LIMITED WARRANTY EXTENSION TO 10 YEARS/120,000 MILES"
Mini Cooper countryman 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: WMWZB3C54BW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Mini Copper Countryman. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked at the residence, the vehicle became flooded. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 29,000.
Mini Cooper countryman 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
- VIN: WMWSU3C50CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I went to have my 2012 mini coopers footwell control module replaced because it was recalled. They did not replace it because they said they found no corrosion and then marked my vehicle as the recall being fixed. When I left the dealership my blinkers or highbeans would not turn on as well as my four way flashers either. And that is dangerous. When I got home I took the cover off the footwell control module and found corrosion on the plug for it. There was also 9 codes for that when I scanned the vehicle and now is trying to charge me for a recalled part that they did not replace!
Mini Cooper countryman 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
- VIN: WMWSU3C5XDT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Blinkers stopped working and windows are no long rolling down
Mini Cooper countryman 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-16
- VIN: WMWZB3C51CW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle stalled. The fuel tank was a third of the way full. The trunk was locking and unlocking continuously while driving or while the vehicle was parked. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical system). The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that there was a short in the footwell module due to water intrusion. The drain was also clogged in the sunroof. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 161,818.
Mini Cooper countryman 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-18
- VIN: WMWSU3C54DT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Mini Cooper. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mini Cooper countryman 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-11
- VIN: WMWSU3C5XCT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: We purchased this vehicle used. It is a 2012 Mini Cooper hardtop and was owned by several owners in the Canada, NY and NJ area before being brought to FL and ultimately sold to us. This defect has been known since May, 2023, yet BMW/Mini has done nothing to rectify the problem. The FRM module failed immediately after we got the car which rendered it undriveable because the power windows, power door locks, turn signals and key fob were inoperable. We called BMW/Mini about the vehicle being inoperable and unsafe to drive and were told to take it to a repair facility to get the module replaced, which we did. We had to tow it there because it was not safe to drive. We were told we would be reimbursed for the repairs, since this was in fact a documented safety recall #23V-337 Footwell Control Module-FRM. After paying $759.18 for the repairs, I submitted the invoice and the requested information to BMW/Mini just to have them deny my request for reimbursement because they say after an entire year since the notice that there is no remedy available. This is unacceptable!! I could not drive this car without having this module replaced and I am sure I'm not alone in this situation. BMW/Mini should reimburse me for the repairs they instructed me to get done. They point blank LIED to me by stating the repairs would be reimbursed due to this being a safety recall. This is going to turn into a class action lawsuit because BMW/Mini refuses to accept responsibility for their faulty vehicles! This will be just another lawsuit to add to their collection.
Mini Cooper countryman 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-06
- VIN: WMWZC3C58DW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The problem started with fog lights blinking on and off while the car was off. As I entered the vehicle I noticed a pool of water on the floor bed. The car has a sunroof which was closed at the time, as well as all of the windows - water came in from somewhere else. I proceeded to turn on the car to see what was happening and the car did not turn on. I thought maybe the battery is dead - tried to give it a boost and it did not work. I replaced the battery - it turned on the car but most lighting areas and power windows do not work. The two front windows are not working properly, they do not go up or down, only the back windows. I do not have control of the headlights - it just stays on one setting. The directional lights do not work. The console lights do not work. This puts myself and others at risk because I can’t aware other drivers when I making a turn or changing lanes. I can’t see the console panel at night, unaware of gas, speed, or radio functions. The car has been driven locally only during the day to avoid accidents and when I arrive at my destination - I notice smoke coming out of the hood. There is an active recall (23V-337) on the R55 & R56 models but not R60 models - which is my car. The exact description of defect (see below) is what is happening to my car and I’d like to have this model added to the recall. It is very dangerous to keep driving this car which I need for daily use. “This safety recall involves the Footwell Control Module (FRM), an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) which controls various lighting and power window functions, and is installed near the bottom of the driver's side A-pillar behind an interior trim panel. Due to several contributing factors (environmental, certain US States' wintertime road treatment, vehicle design configuration and age), over time, the FRM could become susceptible to corrosion. For vehicles equipped with a sunroof, after a multi-year period involving large temperature changes, multiple freeze/thaw cycles..”
Mini Cooper countryman 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-11
- VIN: WMWZP3C58CT
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The clutch has been a problem. The clutch wears out prematurely, causing loss of acceleration, which caused loss of power trying to merge into freeway traffic, which nearly resulted in a collision with a semi. Looking up repair or replacement information, it appears this is a common problem that Mini has, some people were replacing the clutch 3 times before 50,000 miles, and also refusing to honor their warranty, claiming it’s the user fault. I got a quote from Mini Cooper in Tacoma, to replace the clutch, and I was quoted $3400. I paid $12,000 for my Mini Cooper. To change it myself is about impossible due to ‘special’ tools required. I think this is scam set up to get money. It is very unsafe to lose acceleration in places where it’s vital like freeway merging. If people cannot afford to get these these fixed then that’s another safety issue. I’m now stuck figuring out how to get this fixed. Please look into this.
Mini Cooper countryman 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-30
- VIN: WMWSU3C57CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that whenever it rained, several unknown warning lights illuminated, and the power windows failed to function as needed. The contact stated that after turning off the vehicle and attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact stated that occasionally the battery would become drained and required the vehicle to be jumpstarted. The contact had spoken to a service manager at the local dealer; however, the contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mini Cooper countryman 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-22
- VIN: WMWZC5C52DW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Battery module malfunction. No use of blinkers, windows, radio, or hazard lights. Alert comes up that says "Lighting System! Stop Vehicle!" And the vehicle periodically needs to be jumped.
Mini Cooper countryman 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-25
- VIN: WMWSU3C51CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mini Cooper countryman 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WMWZC5C52CW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On the evening of [XXX] at approximately [XXX] my 2012 Mini Cooper S all 4 burst into flames. The car was parked in front of my building for 6 days (we don't use the car very much) in front of my building when the all of a sudden the head lights started flashing followed by the car cabin filling with grey smoke then followed by black smoke then there was a flash (spark?) and the entire cabin the became engulfed in flames. All of this has been captured by our building security camera. I reported the incident the following day to Mini/BMW customer care. I've been sharing emails with Thomas Lula who is investigating the "thermal event" INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Latest negative Mini Cooper countryman car reviews
Latest positive Mini Cooper countryman car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2012
Congratulations on your new car! It's great to hear that you're enjoying your 2012 Countryman S with an automatic transmission. From your description, it sounds like a really fun car to drive, and it's wonderful that you're having such a positive experience with it. The steering sounds tight and very responsive, and the acceleration fantastic. It's also great to hear that you're enjoying the sport mode. The design of the car is really cool, and it's refreshing to have a car that stands out from the crowd. It's no surprise that so many people have asked about it when you pull into a parking lot. At 6'2
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Vehicle year: 2011
The All4 Countryman is my fourth vehicle, although it's not your typical SUV. It's more like a 4-door Mini with all-wheel drive, making it a rally car at heart. The all-wheel drive system is smart and only engages when necessary, rather than being a full-time 4-wheel drive system that the driver can control. This car may not be the best choice for those seeking a traditional SUV, but for those who want a smaller, sportier vehicle that's designed for the driver and is an absolute joy to drive, the Countryman is the perfect choice.
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Vehicle year: 2011
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to let you know that I drove this car during the blizzard at 70 Mph and I never felt so secure. The car is driving very well in all weather conditions and feels very stable at any speed.
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Vehicle year: 2013
Congratulations on your recent purchase of the pre-owned Countryman S ALL4 (6-speed manual)! While I cannot personally vouch for its reliability, I can attest to its nimble handling and peppy performance. The interior space is also quite impressive, with ample leg room and trunk space. The steering feel and handling are simply sublime, and the acceleration in sport mode is excellent. Overall, this car is a great choice for those who enjoy small, fun-to-drive cars. It has a similar feel to the BMW xDrive. Enjoy your new ride!
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Vehicle year: 2013
In this price range, you may be faced with a dreary econo-box, stripped-out sedan, or something else uninspired. However, when I was purchasing a brand new car, my main goal was to find something with space, great gas mileage, and that was FUN to drive. The Countryman checks every box and then some! Don't get me wrong, there are other cars in this segment that offer great value, but the Countryman is the only one that will make you take a second look when you're walking away from it in a parking lot. Why not have your cake and eat it too?!
Are you having problems with your Mini Cooper countryman?
Arthur Leuschke 2024-11-22
Vehicle year: 2012
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car since January. Unfortunately, it has been in the shop three times due to check engine lights. The first time was at 2k, the second at 4k, and currently, it is in the shop at 7k. I have been informed that the parts are coming from Europe, so it may take from 5-10 days to get the necessary parts. I must admit, it has been frustrating, but I'm hopeful that everything will be resolved soon. If you're considering purchasing a car, I would recommend looking into other options for reliability.
Dino Ondricka 2024-11-19
Vehicle year: 2012
This car is quite expensive and may not be the best choice for those looking for a practical SUV. The placement of the mirror controls, window switches, Sport Mode, ESP, and door lock buttons may not be the most intuitive. It can be difficult to operate these toggle switches without taking your eyes off the road. Additionally, the car can be quite noisy and bumpy. However, it can still be a fun and enjoyable ride for those who are looking for a toy car. Reliability may be a concern, but it ultimately depends on individual experiences.
Brennan Satterfield 2024-11-03
Vehicle year: 2012
After spending thousands of dollars on repairs, a MINI sales manager explained to me that sometimes when it comes to sports cars, you have to make compromises. When I asked why I should have to compromise anything, she simply stated that it's just the way it is. In the end, I decided to trade it in for a Subaru, and I did so at the MINI dealership. I wouldn't have felt comfortable trading it in anywhere else - let them deal with it!
Clement Christiansen 2024-10-28
Vehicle year: 2012
I had a negative experience with the car and the dealership. The warranty coverage was misrepresented to me on two occasions, which resulted in a costly repair. However, I was able to find a more affordable option at a local shop. Despite the initial investment, the car did not hold its value as well as I had hoped. Overall, it was a disappointing experience.
Kenyon Stamm 2024-10-09
Vehicle year: 2011
I regret purchasing this car as it has required two trips to the shop within a month of purchase due to issues with the thermostat caging. Additionally, the front cup holders have plastic spikes that puncture styrofoam cups, causing liquid to spill into the shifter cables and resulting in the shifter getting stuck. Despite the fact that the cup holders were designed this way, the dealer and Mini USA held me responsible for the $900.00 repair cost. It is important for Mini Cooper owners to be aware of this issue and the potential expenses that may arise.