Mini Cooper s problems
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.
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Mini Cooper s model years
Common Mini Cooper s problems
The Mini Cooper S is a popular car, but it has some common problems that owners should be aware of.
One of the most common problems is engine overheating, especially in the 2007-2010 Mini Cooper S models with the 1.6-liter turbo engine. This issue is caused by a faulty electric thermostat, a blocked or collapsing lower radiator hose, leaks from the water pump or radiator, and oil cooler leaks. 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.
Another common problem is clutch failure, which is particularly prevalent in 2001-2006 Mini Cooper models. The symptoms of clutch failure include clutch slippage, gear grinding, and difficulty shifting. This issue is often caused by extreme wear and tear or hard use, and it can lead to hefty repair bills.
Power steering pump failures are also common in Mini Coopers, particularly in 2005-2008 Convertibles. The symptoms of power steering pump failure include fluid leaks, pump whining, and increased steering effort.
Timing chain noise is another common problem in Mini Coopers, particularly in 2007-2014 Clubman models. The symptoms of timing chain noise include rattling or knocking noises at cold startup.
Water pump leaks are also common in Mini Coopers, particularly in 2010-2016 Countryman models. The symptoms of water pump leaks include coolant puddles under the car and low coolant warning lights.
Transmission issues are a common problem in Mini Coopers, particularly in 2013-2016 Paceman models. The symptoms of transmission issues include delayed or harsh shifting, warning lights, and gear slippage.
Brake disc corrosion is a common problem in 2015+ JCW models, particularly in the front discs. The symptoms of brake disc corrosion include brake pedal pulsation, vibration, and squeaking.
To prevent these common problems, Mini Cooper owners should follow the factory service schedule, replace wear items early, use quality parts and fluids, address leaks, noises, and warning lights immediately, allow proper warmup before driving hard, drive gently when the car is cold, install an oil catch can if modifying or tracking, upgrade problematic parts preventatively, install gauges or scanners to monitor vital signs, and keep the undercarriage clean.
In summary, while the Mini Cooper S is a popular and fun car to drive, it has some common problems that owners should be aware of. By following the tips outlined above, Mini Cooper owners can help prevent these issues and keep their cars running smoothly.
Is the MINI Coopers engine reliable?
MINI Coopers are, for the most part, reliable vehicles. However, they do suffer from a high frequency of costly repairs, primarily due to the heritage of the powerplant nestled beneath the bug-eyed hood.
What is a common problem with MINI Coopers?
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.
Which MINI Coopers to avoid?
Important Points to Know
The Mini Cooper Years To Avoid are 2001–2006, 2002–2008, 2007–2011, 2008–2010, and 2011–2016. Each troubled year had specific recurring issues such as power steering pump failures, transmission problems, timing chain tensioner failure, engine mount problems, and turbocharged engine issues.
What is the best year for a used MINI Coopers?
The most reliable Minis are those that have been produced from 2015 up to 2021. However, if you go by consumer reports, the best used Mini Coopers are those made between 2018 and 2021. The price of a used Mini Cooper depends on the model, make, year, and mileage of the vehicle.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mini Cooper s years
We have researched Mini problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mini Cooper s cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mini Cooper s model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mini Cooper s model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mini Cooper s years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mini Cooper s car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mini Cooper s , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mini Cooper s vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cooper s model years
A total of 17 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 s model years
There were a total of 23 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 s model years
There were a total of 12 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Cooper s model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 711 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mini Cooper s . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mini Cooper s vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mini Cooper s 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: WMWXP7C30H3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: While driving in the rain, the ABS engages, slowing the front right tire dramatically causing the car to skid and lurch to the right. After some internet research, it appears that this is not an isolated incident. Mini Cooper owners also discovered that when driving in dry conditions and the windshield wiper is turned on, the front right tire slows, causing the car to skid and lurch to the right. European Automotive verified that this was the case on my vehicle. This started without any warning and was terrifying. I told both the local mechanic and the dealer that I would not drive the car until it was repaired. There were no warning lights. The local mechanic and the dealer were unable to find any fault codes. The dealer is 3 hours away. Before we knew what the problem was, I towed the car to the dealership and they were unable to replicate the problem. All test drives were done in dry conditions. They replaced the cruise control sensor and the steering wheel and then delivered the car to me saying it was repaired. While driving the car back from out of town, it began to rain, when the windshield wipers came on, the front tire slowed dramatically, lurching the car to the right. This is a terrifying experience, especially in the rain. It seems this is not an isolated incident and may have already caused serious accidents. The car is less than 50,000 miles old and has been used for work only. I have not driven the car out of fear of an accident and have parked it in my driveway waiting for some type of resolution with the dealer.
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
- VIN: WMWXS5C54FT
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: While driving the rear view mirror suddenly tilted downward (drooped). What happened, was that the tension ring popped off. As it turns out, this is a known issue per internet Mini Cooper pages. On hot days the ring loosens and, since the design does not include anything to prevent the ring from sliding off, it does slide off, resulting in the rear view mirror drooping. I reinstalled the ring. This occurred again the next day. I ended up uninstalling the rear view mirror, reinstalling the ring and gluing it in place. Thus far this has held.
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-17
- VIN: WMWZN3C54FT
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Mini Cooper. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the rear convertible glass suddenly separated from the convertible compartment and fell on the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The contact stated that while searching online, he became aware that the failure had been a very well-known failure since 2017 with similar vehicles. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.
Mini Cooper s 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WMWMR33509T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I was driving my vehicle and the driver's side airbag in the seat went off unexpectedly during normal driving operation. I was the only person in the vehicle and was able to stop quickly and safely. The problem has not been checked or inspected by anyone. There was no warnings that had indicated a problem.
Mini Cooper s 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-12
- VIN: WMWLU5C56K2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact's daughter owns a 2019 Mini Cooper S Clubman. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, she depressed the brake pedal, but the rear driver's side brake light failed to illuminate. The contact stated that he was driving behind his daughter when he noticed the failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the rear driver's side brake light bulb was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The mechanic referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was jumpstarted by AAA. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist unless NHTSA required that they do so. The failure mileage was unknown.
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-02
- VIN: WMWSX3C50FT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The sensors do not work. The car does not tell me when oil is needed, when my tires are low. No sensors work in the car. The dealer, Mini Of Edison, states FOUND INTERNAL HARDWARE FAULTS. But are stating its costs 2300.00 to fix. This is a huge safety issue.Ive been having to guess when my oil is low and when my tires are low. This has been going on since September 2023, the car was only bought in May 2023.
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-31
- VIN: WMWXP7C51F2
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The fuel filling nozzle turns off repeatedly while trying to fill the fuel tank and spills out causing a safety and environmental hazard, regardless of the pump being used. As a result, no fuel goes into the gas tank, instead it goes all over the car and the ground.
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-30
- VIN: WMWXP7C55F2
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? CONTROL ARMS AND BUSHINGS How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? CONSTANT CREAKING AND CLUNKING OF FRONT SUSPENSION Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? MANY OTHER OWNERS OF THE SAME YEAR AND GENERATION HAVE THIS SAME ISSUE Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NOT YET Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-26
- VIN: WMWXM5C52F3
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Without any warning lamps,The vehicle started pulling left when the brakes were applied a certified mechanic looked at it and feels that is the due to a defective DSC/ABS control unit. The unit hasn't been otherwise inspected but is available for inspection
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-13
- VIN: WMWXU3C59F2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Mini Cooper S. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front passenger’s side air bag warning light remained illuminated stating that the air bag was turned off. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the seat mat needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the request for assistance was denied. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-22
- VIN: WMWXP7C50F2
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel tank causes gas pump to click off after dispensing a tenth gallon of gasoline. Gas spills from gas tank while removing pump creating a safety and environmental hazard. Fuel tank will not accept gas at pump. No warning lamps, messages, or symptoms were present prior to the failure. Mini Cooper dealership stated that service valve in tank has failed and entire fuel tank must be replaced.
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-01
- VIN: WMWSX3C52FT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving on freeway in 109 degree temp the service engine light came on. Proceeded with trip home (approx 2 hrs). Made a service appt online with Mini of Stevens Creek which was for 3 days later. Upon inspection it was found that vehicle had multiple problems. Service Advisor would not allow me to drive vehicle home while awaiting parts that were on B/O. Estimated it could be as long as 2 months before repaired because there were 391 units coming in next delivery but my vehicle was number 403 on the list requiring this part and would have to wait for the following months delivery. I was quite alarmed of the repairs needed since my vehicle has <28,000 miles and well maintained.
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-19
- VIN: WMWXS5C58FT
- Components: ENGINE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Mini Cooper. The contact stated that after the vehicle was taken to a local dealer for a routine oil change, the mechanic also determined that the valve cover gasket needed to be replaced and an unknown engine software needed to be updated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was advised to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The approximate failure mileage was 78,000.
Mini Cooper s 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-27
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-15
- VIN: WMWXM5C58F3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The horn does no longer work. Had to press harder and harder on the horn button and in different places as time went on. Also have the same problem in a 2005 Mini Cooper.
Mini Cooper s 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-22
- VIN: WMWMS33539T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Timing chain guides are broke into alot of pieces into the engine.
Latest 5 recalls Mini Cooper s
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 46 recalls for different components of the Mini Cooper s.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mini Cooper s 2013
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2014 MINI Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Clubman John Cooper Works, and 2007-2013 MINI Hardtop 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. The electronic control module in the driver's side footwell area may short-circuit, due to corrosion from water and road salt.
- Consequence: An electrical short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the sunroof drains, interior footwell area, and FRM and, depending upon the results of the inspection, certain components will be replaced. Owner notification letters were mailed May 13, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-866-825-1525.
- Model: Mini Cooper s 2011
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2014 MINI Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Clubman John Cooper Works, and 2007-2013 MINI Hardtop 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. The electronic control module in the driver's side footwell area may short-circuit, due to corrosion from water and road salt.
- Consequence: An electrical short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the sunroof drains, interior footwell area, and FRM and, depending upon the results of the inspection, certain components will be replaced. Owner notification letters were mailed May 13, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-866-825-1525.
- Model: Mini Cooper s 2009
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2014 MINI Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Clubman John Cooper Works, and 2007-2013 MINI Hardtop 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. The electronic control module in the driver's side footwell area may short-circuit, due to corrosion from water and road salt.
- Consequence: An electrical short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the sunroof drains, interior footwell area, and FRM and, depending upon the results of the inspection, certain components will be replaced. Owner notification letters were mailed May 13, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-866-825-1525.
- Model: Mini Cooper s 2007
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2014 MINI Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Clubman John Cooper Works, and 2007-2013 MINI Hardtop 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. The electronic control module in the driver's side footwell area may short-circuit, due to corrosion from water and road salt.
- Consequence: An electrical short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the sunroof drains, interior footwell area, and FRM and, depending upon the results of the inspection, certain components will be replaced. Owner notification letters were mailed May 13, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-866-825-1525.
- Model: Mini Cooper s 2008
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2014 MINI Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Clubman John Cooper Works, and 2007-2013 MINI Hardtop 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. The electronic control module in the driver's side footwell area may short-circuit, due to corrosion from water and road salt.
- Consequence: An electrical short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the sunroof drains, interior footwell area, and FRM and, depending upon the results of the inspection, certain components will be replaced. Owner notification letters were mailed May 13, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-866-825-1525.
Are you having problems with your Mini Cooper s?
