Mini Cooper roadster problems
The Mini Coupé and Mini Roadster are two-seater sports cars that were engineered and manufactured by German automaker BMW under the Mini marque between 2011 and 2015.
The hardtop Coupé was unveiled in June 2011 and formally launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011. Production was shown in the 2011 documentary Megafactories. It is the first two-seater Mini. It was joined by a convertible version called Mini Roadster in 2012, following its showing as a concept car in 2009. The Coupé is known by the internal code R58 and the Roadster by code R59.
In February 2015 Mini announced the end of production for both models.
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Mini Cooper roadster model years
Common Mini Cooper roadster problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Mini Cooper Roadster, common problems with these cars include:
- Clutch Damage: Another common problem reported by Mini Cooper Roadster owners is clutch damage. Signs of clutch issues may include a burning smell, difficulty engaging gears, or a spongy clutch pedal. Clutch problems can lead to drivability issues and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
- Engine Failure: Some owners have experienced engine failure with their Mini Cooper Roadsters. Engine failure can result from various issues such as oil leaks, low oil pressure, or timing chain problems. Engine failure can be a serious and costly problem that requires immediate attention to avoid further damage to the vehicle.
- Oil Leaks: Mini Cooper Roadster owners have reported oil leaks from the timing chain tensioner. Oil leaks can lead to low oil levels, affecting engine performance and potentially causing damage over time. It is essential to address oil leaks promptly to prevent engine issues and maintain the car's reliability.
- Electrical Problems: Complaints from owners have highlighted issues with non-engine electrics like air conditioning and sat-nav systems. Electrical problems can cause inconvenience and affect the overall driving experience. Prompt diagnosis and repair of electrical issues are crucial to ensure the car's functionality and comfort.
These common problems reported by Mini Cooper Roadster owners emphasize the importance of regular maintenance, timely repairs, and thorough inspections to address issues promptly and maintain the vehicle's reliability and performance over time.
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 is the bad year for Mini Cooper?
According to Consumer Reports surveys, Mini Cooper released from 2006–2012 is considered the worst years. Having said that, there have been problems in the earlier 2000's as well. First and second-generation MINI's had quite a few problems, of which the most significant was the transmission malfunction.
Why was the Mini Roadster discontinued?
Mini says increased demand for new three and five-door Mini and foreordained plans are bringing production of the Coupe and Roadster to an end. Also, it turns out people didn't want less practical versions of a car that already lacked a certain degree of flexibility.
What is the life expectancy of a Mini Cooper engine?
between 75 thousand miles to 150 thousand miles
The MINI Cooper is the type of car that's designed to last a long time. A MINI Cooper that's well cared for can last anywhere between 75 thousand miles to 150 thousand miles. Depending on how much you drive the car, it can last a long time.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mini Cooper roadster years
We have researched Mini problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mini Cooper roadster cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Mini Cooper roadster model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mini Cooper roadster model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mini Cooper roadster years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mini Cooper roadster car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mini Cooper roadster , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mini Cooper roadster vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cooper roadster model years
A total of 2 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 roadster model years
There were a total of 7 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 roadster 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 110 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mini Cooper roadster . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mini Cooper roadster vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mini Cooper roadster 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 roadster 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 roadster 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 roadster 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 roadster 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 roadster 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 roadster 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 roadster 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 roadster 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 roadster 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-07
- VIN: WMWSU3C53DT
- 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 contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mini Cooper roadster 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-04
- VIN: WMWSU3C51DT
- 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 contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mini Cooper roadster 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-01
- VIN: WMWSU3C5XDT
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Freeze plug randomly popped out while driving causing vehicle to stall in the middle of traffic almost causing a major accident and or death. Research indicates there has been numerous complaints by Mini Cooper owners experiencing the same issue of a premature unexplained failure with no action taken from Mini to mitigate this safety issue. I’m lucky to be alive.
Mini Cooper roadster 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-27
- VIN: WMWSU3C56CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: started with lights not going off once i cut car off, then windshield wipers would come on it's on, then check engine warning lights, check fuel pump and check rear bulbs lights and several other warning lights would stay on, finally it got to it wouldn't crack until after three or four tries, then it started cutting off while driving, then I would have to wait for 30 min. or more, then it would crank back up. now it won't crack at all. I've been waiting on this recall since 5/12/23 recall #23V337. Please advise and Help!!
Mini Cooper roadster 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-26
- VIN: WMWSV3C5XCT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: i bought the car in august 2023 from carmax they were aware of recall , my car has no headlight, brake lights, door states open when not , windows do not roll down, cannot use alarm, will not lock, smells hot , i spoke with mini cooper and there is no remedy this is my only car i transport my grandchildren to and from school , i lost house due to a fire a yr ago , and lost everything , and see that a fire is at risk. mini cooper says nothing they can do because no remedy, carmax should not of sold this car with a recall .
Mini Cooper roadster 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-12
- VIN: WMWSU3C53DT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Mini Cooper Hardtop. 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. 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.
Latest negative Mini Cooper roadster car reviews
Latest positive Mini Cooper roadster car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2013
Probably the most fun you can have on the road! Although the ride is a little stiff (which is not helped by the OEM run-flat tires provided), dropping the top will definitely make you smile. The roadster actually has a trunk that is usable, along with a package storage shelf behind the seats that can hold small parcels, a small gym bag, etc. And with Mini build quality and BMW engineering, this is definitely one of the best cars I have ever owned!
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Vehicle year: 2013
With over 1200 miles on it, I still can't stop grinning. Everywhere I go, I receive thumbs up and compliments such as 'nice car', 'beautiful ride', 'Mommy I want that car', and more. It's fast and economical - I just got 38 MPG from New Jersey to New Hampshire, driving at 75-85 MPH. Surprisingly, it has a large trunk for such a small car. I was even able to fit my skis using the trunk pass-through. My only complaint is the single-layer top, which can be noisy at highway speeds. However, it's a small price to pay for such a fun car. It's much nicer than a Miata, Honda S2000, or BMW Z4, and it has tons of amenities, including a super radio and navigation. You should definitely buy it!
Are you having problems with your Mini Cooper roadster?
Hershel Stroman 2024-09-16
Vehicle year: 2013
Congratulations on your purchase of a used 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster Base model with auto transmission about a year ago! It's great to hear that this car is your first convertible and that it has been more fun than any other car you have owned in the past 40 years. It's wonderful that you are constantly looking for an excuse to drive it and that you receive favorable comments from strangers about the car all the time. It's also impressive that you have not had any mechanical issues at all, even though the car has 17k miles on it. I'm glad to hear that you were able to address the issue of the car riding too rough for your taste by switching to Koni FSD struts and non-run flat tires. It's clear that you have a great appreciation for this car, and I can understand why you have no idea what car you could ever buy to replace it. Even your Nissan 370Z seemed boring in comparison! Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
Luther Walter 2024-06-03
Vehicle year: 2012
Congratulations on your purchase of a used 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster Base model with auto transmission about a year ago! It's great to hear that this car is your first convertible and that it has been more fun than any other car you have owned in the past 40 years. It's wonderful that you are constantly looking for an excuse to drive it and that you receive favorable comments from strangers about the car all the time. It's also impressive that you have not had any mechanical issues at all, even though the car has 17k miles on it. I'm glad to hear that you were able to address the issue of the car riding too rough for your taste by switching to Koni FSD struts and non-run flat tires. It's clear that you have a great appreciation for this car, and I can understand why you have no idea what car you could ever buy to replace it. Even your Nissan 370Z seemed boring in comparison! Thank you for sharing your experience with us.