2005 Mini Cooper s convertible 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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Common 2005 Mini Cooper s convertible problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Mini Cooper S Convertible 2005, several common problems have been reported:
- Timing Chain Issues:
The timing chain in Mini Cooper vehicles is prone to movement and loosening, causing slack in the mechanism. Symptoms include strange noises, engine vibrations, or power loss. If left unrepaired, this issue can escalate, causing further damage to the engine and resulting in higher repair costs.
- Airbag Problems:
A recall in 2015 affected Mini Cooper models due to a Takata airbag issue, where airbags may not deploy properly. Additionally, owners have reported problems like the airbag warning light coming on intermittently, often due to a failed passenger seat sensor that requires replacement.
- Power Steering Failure:
In April 2020, BMW faced a lawsuit for power steering problems in Mini Cooper models, including the 2002-2005 Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper S models. The issue led to an unexpected loss of power steering while driving, posing risks of damage, injury, or even vehicle fires. Owners are advised to have their power steering system checked by a mechanic if any irregularities are suspected.
These common problems with the Mini Cooper S Convertible 2005 highlight important issues that owners should be aware of to ensure the proper maintenance and longevity of their vehicles.
Is the 2005 Mini Cooper reliable?
Great reliable car that saves you money on gas!
Love the Mini Cooper! Very reliable and runs great. Great on gas mileage and easy to drive!
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 a 2005 Mini Cooper a safe car?
In government crash tests, the 2005 Mini Cooper hatchback earned four stars (out of five) for frontal impacts and four stars for side impacts involving front occupants. In IIHS frontal offset crash testing, the Cooper was named a "Best Pick" among small cars.
How much is a 2005 Mini Cooper S convertible worth?
Used 2005 MINI Convertible Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| Cooper Convertible 2D | $22,800 | $4,397 |
| Cooper S Convertible 2D | $24,950 | $4,671 |
2005 Mini Cooper s convertible complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Mini Cooper s convertible.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2005 Mini Cooper s convertible recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2005 Mini Cooper s convertible.
- 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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Mini Cooper s convertible problems:
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