Mini Cooper s convertible problems

General information about Mini Cooper s convertible
Mini Cooper s convertible years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
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 s convertible car production

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Common Mini Cooper s convertible problems

The Mini Cooper S Convertible is a popular choice for those who want a fun and stylish vehicle with the added benefit of an open-air driving experience. However, like any vehicle, it can have its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the Mini Cooper S Convertible, based on complaints from owners:

Leaks: Unfortunately, leaks are a common problem with convertible tops. Natural causes such as sunlight, rain, and wind can cause holes or deterioration in the top. If you're a potential buyer, it's a good idea to test the top by spraying or hosing water on it to check for leaks. While it may seem odd, it's your right as a buyer to ensure the vehicle is in good condition.

Noise: Mini Cooper owners have reported noisy wind problems with their convertible tops. 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. This simple addition can significantly reduce wind noise while driving with the top down.

Tie Rods: A small number of Mini Cooper Convertible models made between 20-21 March 2019 have an issue where the tie rods on the front suspension were not assembled correctly. If your car is affected, it will need to be checked by a Mini dealer and have the fault rectified.

EGR Module: A number of diesel-powered Minis built between 3 March 2014 and 17 March 2017 that are fitted with an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) module could have an issue with it leaking. In extreme circumstances, it could cause a fire, so affected cars should be inspected by a Mini dealer to find out if it needs replacing.

Crankshaft Sensor: A problem with the crankshaft sensor fitted to some diesel models manufactured between 22 May and 13 June 2018 could result in rough running and an engine malfunction warning light to illuminate. The engine could also stall, too. Speak with your local dealer if you think your car is affected, because it will need a new sensor if it is.

Spare Wheel: For early vehicles made from the start of production until 30 September 2014, the emergency spare wheel (if fitted) may work loose from the underside of the car.

Front Seat Backrest: The front seat backrests on Minis produced between 1 August and 30 September 2014 could have some play in the mechanism. This could, in the event of a collision, lead to injury because the seat may not remain in an upright position.

In summary, while the Mini Cooper S Convertible is a popular and stylish vehicle, it's essential to be aware of the common problems that can arise. From mechanical issues with the convertible top to potential safety concerns, it's crucial to stay informed and take action when necessary to ensure your vehicle remains in good condition.

What is a common problem with MINI Coopers?

Overflow tanks are possibly the #1 thing to fail on the W11 (Cooper S engine). The seam between the top and bottom leaks and you lose pressure in the coolant system and overheat if you don't catch it. A good upgrade would be the Canton Aluminum tank.

Are MINI Coopers 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.

Is the MINI Coopers reliable car?

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 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 convertible years

We have researched Mini problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mini Cooper s convertible cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mini Cooper s convertible model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mini Cooper s convertible model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Mini Cooper s convertible 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 convertible car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Mini Cooper s convertible , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Electrical system problems
Air bags problems
Engine problems
Power train problems
Seats problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Mini Cooper s convertible vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cooper s convertible model years

There were a total of 11 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 convertible model years

There were a total of 2 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 94 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mini Cooper s convertible . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mini Cooper s convertible vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Mini Cooper s convertible 2011

Date Of Incident: 2024-01-22
Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
VIN: WMWSV3C51BT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that several warning lights were illuminated erroneously. Additionally, the door locks were locking and unlocking independently. The contact also stated that the sunroof was opening or closing without driver and passenger input. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 96,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2012

Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
Date Complaint: 2024-08-05
VIN: WMWSV3C54CT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper S. The contact stated that the headlights, turn signals, windows, and the radio were inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System) however, the VIN was not included. The local dealer was contacted, and it was diagnosed that there was no water leaking into the vehicle from the roof. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a claim for the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2012

Date Of Incident: 2024-07-20
Date Complaint: 2024-07-20
VIN: WMWZP3C51CT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The Footwell Module, referred to by the manufacturer as the FRM, has corrosion inside. The module is currently staying active and drawing power from the battery at all times. It appears to the same issue as 23V337000, but this chassis number is not included in the recall. I believe that this vehicle has as large a fire hazard as other vehicles involved in the recall.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2012

Date Of Incident: 2023-06-30
Date Complaint: 2024-04-18
VIN: WMWSV3C56CT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper S. 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 while driving 50-55 MPH on the highway, the vehicle shut off inadvertently. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact stated that he was able to restart the vehicle after 15 minutes and continued driving; however, the failure recurred after exiting the highway. The vehicle was pushed to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the high-pressure fuel pump plausibility pressure was significantly low due to footwell control module failure. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. 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 failure. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2012

Date Of Incident: 2024-04-04
Date Complaint: 2024-04-15
VIN: WMWSV3C55CT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper S. 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 not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while merging onto a highway at approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact was not aware of any warning lights being illuminated. The contact pulled over and had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the failure was an electrical failure. The battery and the main fuse box were replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System). The failure mileage was approximately 121,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2012

Date Of Incident: 2024-02-08
Date Complaint: 2024-04-08
VIN: WMWSV3C54CT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper S. 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 windows failed to roll down. Additionally, the contact stated that the headlights, the hazard lights, and the turn signals were inoperable. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated and the message "Light Malfunction, Contact Dealer" was displayed. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2011

Date Of Incident: 2024-01-04
Date Complaint: 2024-01-04
VIN: WMWSV3C50BT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper S. 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 contacts daughter called the dealer but could not identify which dealer was contacted. 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.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2011

Date Of Incident: 2023-10-15
Date Complaint: 2023-10-31
VIN: WMWSV3C59BT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electric 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.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2012

Date Of Incident: 2023-08-15
Date Complaint: 2023-10-19
VIN: WMWSV3C58CT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper S. 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 contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed the turn signals were inoperable. The contact stated that the power switches to unlock or lock the doors were inoperable, and the power window switches were also inoperable. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2012

Date Of Incident: 2023-10-05
Date Complaint: 2023-10-05
VIN: WMWSV3C54CT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper S. 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 not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2012

Date Of Incident: 2023-04-02
Date Complaint: 2023-10-02
VIN: WMWSV3C50CT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mini Cooper S. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the turn signals were engaged but failed to respond. Additionally, the contact stated that warning lights indicated that the gas cap and trunk were opened, and other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact also stated that the windows failed to roll down, and the headlights and the fog lights were inoperable. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown local dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed to determine whether the failure was related to the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2011

Date Of Incident: 2023-05-13
Date Complaint: 2023-08-30
VIN: WMWSV3C50BT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An undisclosed dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were 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.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2011

Date Of Incident: 2023-07-24
Date Complaint: 2023-07-31
VIN: WMWSV3C50BT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper S. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact was informed that the left turn signal light was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to a local Pep Boys, where the left turn signal light bulb was replaced twice; however, the failure recurred 30 minutes later each time. Additionally, the contact stated that the brake lights were inoperable. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System) which the contact related to the failure; however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. 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 failure. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2011

Date Of Incident: 2023-06-20
Date Complaint: 2023-06-27
VIN: WMWZN3C59BT
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the electronics operated erratically and had limited functionality. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the electronic control module inside the footwell had shorted out due to a water leak. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 66,000.

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Mini Cooper s convertible 2011

Date Of Incident: 2023-03-02
Date Complaint: 2023-03-30
VIN: WMWSV3C5XBT
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: All air bags lights are on. Indicates airbags are deactivated.

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Latest 5 recalls Mini Cooper s convertible

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the Mini Cooper s convertible.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Mini Cooper s convertible 2011
Report Received Date: 2018-04-18
Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i xDrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The electric auxiliary water pump may fail and cause the circuit board to overheat.
Consequence: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning June 11, 2018, and will receive a second notification when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at BMW 1-800-525-7417, MINI at 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW recommends that owners park their vehicle outdoors until the recall remedy has been performed.

Model: Mini Cooper s convertible 2012
Report Received Date: 2018-04-18
Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i xDrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The electric auxiliary water pump may fail and cause the circuit board to overheat.
Consequence: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning June 11, 2018, and will receive a second notification when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at BMW 1-800-525-7417, MINI at 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW recommends that owners park their vehicle outdoors until the recall remedy has been performed.

Model: Mini Cooper s 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 s 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 s 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.