2009 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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Common 2009 Mini Cooper s problems
The 2009 Mini Cooper S is known for several common problems, primarily related to the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
- Transmission Issues: The Mini Cooper S uses stronger German-made Getrag manual transmissions, which has reduced the frequency of manual transmission issues. However, the gearshifts can become sloppy, with the lever not sitting centrally when in neutral. This is the result of a worn cup in the linkage, which is a simple and easy fix.
- Electrical System Issues: The 2009 Mini Cooper has experienced issues with the airbags, with drivers reporting the warning lights staying on without explanation.
- Other Issues: The 2009 Mini Cooper S has also experienced issues with the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to total engine failure.
- In summary, the 2009 Mini Cooper S has several common problems, primarily related to the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. These issues can lead to total engine failure, rough running, poor acceleration, and electrical fires. While some of these issues can be fixed, others have no known solution, and owners should be aware of these problems before purchasing a 2009 Mini Cooper S.
What is the engine problem with the 2009 Mini Cooper S?
The high-pressure fuel pump has been known to fail on the Mini Countryman and the 2007 through 2009 Mini Cooper S models. If it does, this can result in a lack of power, rough running, and significantly reduced performance. You may notice that your check engine light comes on and the engine goes into “limp mode.”
Are Mini Coopers 2009 reliable?
The 2009 Mini Cooper is surprisingly reliable, with drivers reporting around 250,000 miles before the more expensive repairs start to pile up.
Is Mini Cooper S 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 the most common problem with mini coopers?
Issue #1: Engine Overheating in Mini Cooper S (2007-2010)
Oil cooler leaks have also been reported on some vehicles. 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.
2009 Mini Cooper s car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mini Cooper s problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Seats problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Mini Cooper s vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2009 Mini Cooper s
The NHTSA has received 36 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Mini Cooper s. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2009 Mini Cooper s vehicles.
2024-04-21
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-20
- 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.
2023-01-22
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-15
- VIN: WMWMS33539T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Timing chain guides are broke into alot of pieces into the engine.
2022-09-09
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-08
- VIN: WMWMR33509T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: While driving the car the engine stalls due to timing chain issues . These timing chain issues were part of a safety recall but this car's vin number doesn't qualify! The car will stall at full speed
2022-05-01
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-10
- VIN: WMWMS33549T
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1.Electronic power steering gearbox. Connections almost caught on fire. And yes it is available for inspection upon request. 2. If it would’ve caught on fire. the whole vehicle would’ve torched. I noticed there’s a lot of Mini Cooper engine fires. 3. No it has not been confirmed by dealer. 4. No it has not been inspected by the manufacturer. I didn’t feel it was safe to drive the vehicle. I did make them aware of it and ask him how much a New power steering gearbox would be. they said $2200 just for the part. Will also need the connecting wiring also.. so that will ensure more cost. 5. There was no warning lamps messages or symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. Not sure exactly when it first appeared. But there are several Mini Cooper‘s that have electrical fires and I just think I caught mine before it went to that level.
2021-05-04
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-01
- VIN: WMWMR335X9T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: RED AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT AND WHITE WARNING TOO" PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF" WARNING ALWAYS ON WHEN IGNITION IS ON.
2021-01-29
SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-25
- VIN: WMWMS335X9T
- Components: SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: HAVE A ASSENGER RESTRAING MALFUNCTION, ALSO HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP FAULT. WAS DRIVING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY.
2020-02-27
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-25
- VIN: WMWMR33579T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: A WARNING LIGHT CAME ON THE DISPLAY SCREEN SAYING THERE IS AN ERROR WITH THE AIRBAG. I HAD JUST TURNED ON THE CAR, WASN'T MOVING WHEN IT BEEPED AND TURNED ON. I HAVE DRIVEN WITH IT, AND IT IS STILL ON.
2019-09-05
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-15
- VIN: WMWMR33529T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: MY CAR I BOUGHT AS A PRE-OWN AND THE OWNER BEFORE E HAD LEAKS AS WELL. THESE LEAKS CAUSED ELECTRICAL DAMAGE ON THE CIRCUIT BOARDS THAT MADE THE CIRCUIT BOARD SHOULDER AND HEAT UP SO HOT IT ALMOST WENT ON FIRE. ALSO THE TIRES WERE THE WRONG SIZE AND SALES PERSON WOULD NOT ADMIT FAULT SO I HAD TO PAY TO REPLACE THEM ALL. I WAS DRIVING WHEN I FELT THE CAR LOSE CONTROL ON THE HIGHWAY AND STREETS, THEN I WAS DRIVING WHEN CAR OVERHEATED. I PAID TO FIX LEAKS MORE THAN $7000 AND STILL LEAKING. NOW ANOTHER LIGHT BULB IS OUT MY BACK BREAK LIGHT SO I CANNOT DRIVE IT BECAUSE THAT IS UNSAFE TO OTHERS DRIVING BEHIND ME.
2019-08-26
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-15
- VIN: WMWMR33529T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: ELECTRICAL FAILURE SINCE DAY ONE BOUGHT CAR AS A PRE-OWN. PRIOR OWNER HISTORY SAME ISSUES AS ME. MY CAR ALMOST WENT ON FIRE, POOR PERFORMANCE , LEAKS AND LEAKS WITH NO RELOAD FROM $6,000+ REPAIRS. STILL LEAKING. SUSPECTED WATER DAMAGE CAUSING ELECTRICAL OR JUST FAULTY ELECTRICAL. BULBS GO OUT WHEN CAR NOT EVEN DRIVEN, CANOPY BROKE AT SERVICE DEPT AND THEY WON'T REPAIR FREE OF CHARGE. BATTERY DID NOT WORK AND ISSUES WITH KEY FOB RECOGNITION.
2019-02-03
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-12
- VIN: WMWMR33529T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PASSENGER 2 AIRBAG IS OFF-YELLOW WARNING LIGHT ABOVE MIRROR AND AIRBAG WARNING ON INSTRUMENT PANEL-RED WARNING LIGHT REMAINS ON WHEN THE PASSENGER SEAT IS OCCUPIED OR EMPTY. THESE LIGHT ARE ON WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED AND REMAINS ON. WE HAVE RESEARCHED THIS ISSUE AND SEE THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH THE MINI COOPER.
2019-01-22
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-21
- VIN: WMWMS33529T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WE HEARD A RATTLING NOISE AND THE ENGINE LIGHT APPEARED. MINI OF PALM BEACH STATES TIMING CHAIN NEEDS TO BE REPLACED @ ABOUT 4,000$ FOR NEEDED REPAIRS.
2018-12-29
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-21
- VIN: WMWMR33599T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ISSUES WITH OIL SYSTEM HAVE LEAD TO ENGINE HEAD FAILURE WHERE OIL IN MIXING WITH COOLANT. THE COOLANT RESERVOIR WAS FULL OF OIL. I AM EXPERIENCING LOSS OF ENGINE POWER WHILE DRIVING AND STALLING WHEN COMING TO A STOP. I'VE BEEN TOLD THAT IT IS TOO DANGEROUS TO DRIVE.
2018-12-26
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-24
- VIN: WMWMF73549T
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SENSOR ON THE PASSENGER SEAT SEAMS FAULTY. THE LIGHTS FOR THE AIR BAG AND SEAT BELT KEEPS COMING ON WHETHER OR NOT THERE IS A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT. THE MECHANIC SAID THE ENTIRE SEAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS I DON'T KNOW WHETHER OR NOT THE AIRBAGS WOULD DEPLOY IN THE CASE OF ACCIDENT.
2017-09-21
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-04
- VIN: WMWMR33559T
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AT ABOUT 64500 MILES THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT AND AIR BAG LIGHTS CAME ON INTERMITTENTLY AND SHORTLY THEREAFTER THEY STAYED ON. LOCAL MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE PASSENGER SEAT SWITCH WAS PROBABLY THE CULPRIT. AND LOCATED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN FOR THIS PROBLEM. A CALL TO KEELER MOTOR CAR CO. SAID THE BAGS WOULD WORK AS DESIGNED, BUT WOULDN'T PUT THAT IN WRITING AND FURTHERED "CLARIFIED" HER ANSWER BY ADDING "AS FAR AS I KNOW". A SECOND CALL FROM A DIFFERENT PERSON SAID IF THE LIGHTS ARE ON THEN THE BAGS WOULD PROBABLY NOT WORK. BUT COULDN'T TELL ME IF JUST PASSENGER SIDE WOULD OR WOULDN'T WORK OR ALL THE AIR BAGS.
2017-05-17
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-10
- VIN: WMWMF73569T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 MINI COOPER S US. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE ENGINE FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND THE CONTACT STATED THAT THEY EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,000.
2016-12-24
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-22
- VIN: WMWMS33569T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE KNOCKING WHEN STAR TIMING BELT PART BROKEN.
2016-08-11
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-01
- VIN: WMWMS33579T
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: I RECENTLY PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE. IT CURRENTLY HAS THE AIR BAG PASSENGER SEAT ON AND IT STATES THAT THE AIRBAG IS OFF. I WENT TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THIS WAS A MAYOR RECALL TO OVER 100,000 MINI COOPERS BUT MINE WAS NOT ONE OF THEM. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE SINCE THE SEAT SENSOR IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY AND THIS THEREFORE DOES NOT ACTIVATE THE AIRBAG. IF THERE WERE AN ACCIDENT THE PASSENGER AIRBAG WOULD NOT EJECT. THIS IS A PROBLEM ON 100,000 AND MY VEHICLE HAS THE PROBLEM BUT IT IS NOT UNDER THE RECALL. WHAT DO I NEED TO DO? WHO IS LIABLE FOR THIS ISSUE WHICH OBVIOUSLY IS AN EXISTING PROBLEM FOR THE BRAND??? NOTHING HAS HAPPENED BUT IF IT WERE TO HAPPEN, WHO WOULD BE LIABLE? I WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT I AM ON RECORD ON THIS
2016-01-07
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-07
- VIN: WMWMS335X9T
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
- Summary: THIS IS THE PREVIOUS COMPLAINT THAT I HAD ABOUT THE 2009 MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE 2 WEEKS AGO WHICH HAS ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TODAY FROM THE CERTIFIED BMW MECHANIC HERE IN AUSTIN. MANUFACTURER: BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NO. (VIN): WMWMS33589T... SUMMARY: " I OWN A 2009 MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE. I BOUGHT IT 4 MONTHS AGO. I WAS DRIVING ON I35 GOING TO AUSTIN THE 26TH OF DECEMBER 2015. THE VEHICLE DIED WITHOUT A WARNING WHILE IN MOTION. I TURNED THE HAZARDS ON IMMEDIATELY...SAW THAT I COULD SAFELY STOP. A SAN MARCOS COP CAME TO HELP PUSH THE CAR FURTHER IN TO SAFETY BEFORE THE ELECTRICITY OF THE CAR COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN AND MY KEY FOB WAS STUCK IN THE IGNITION.... THEY GAVE ME A LIST. THEY SAID THE VACUUM PUMP MELTED. THE REPORT SAID THAT, PULL VALVE COVER FOUND TIMING CHAIN GUIDES BROKEN DUE TO LOOSE CHAIN SLAPPING THEM NEEDS TIMING CHAIN, GUIDES AND ALL ASSOCIATED SEALS AND BOLTS. THEY GAVE ME A QUOTE OF $2300.00 FOR ALL THE PARTS..." TODAY, I CALLED THE BMW REPAIR SHOP ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT THEY COULDN'T DO THE REPAIR BECAUSE THE ENGINE NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. IT HAS BEEN DAMAGED. THE COST FOR THE ENGINE REPLACEMENT IS ABOUT $4,000 IN ADDITION TO THE LABOR COST AND PREVIOUS COST WHICH BRINGS ME UP TO ALMOST $7,000 IN COST. THIS HAS REALLY GOTTEN OUT OF HAND. I ONLY HAD THIS CAR FOR 4 MONTHS AND WITH ALL THE PROBLEMS AND COST THAT IT INCURRED IS ALREADY SUCH A BURDEN, I'VE ALREADY LOST 2 WEEKS OF NOT BEING ABLE TO GO ANYWHERE. I HOPE THERE WOULD BE SOME KIND OF RESOLUTION. THIS CAR IS DEFECTIVE. I AM NOW STUCK WITH NOT HAVING A TRANSPORTATION AND A HUGE BURDEN OF CAR PAYMENTS, HUGE CAR REPAIR PAYMENTS AND LOSS OF PRODUCTIVE DAYS. NOT TO MENTION, IT IS UNSAFE.
2015-12-29
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-26
- VIN: WMWMS33589T
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
- Summary: I OWN A 2009 MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE. I BOUGHT IT 4 MONTHS AGO. I WAS DRIVING ON I35 GOING TO AUSTIN THE 26TH OF DECEMBER 2015. THE VEHICLE DIED WITHOUT A WARNING WHILE IN MOTION. I TURNED THE HAZARDS ON IMMEDIATELY DUE TO THE DANGEROUS SITUATION I WAS IN. THERE WAS NO SHOULDER TO THE RIGHT; I LET THE CAR COAST UNTIL I SAW THAT I COULD SAFELY STOP. A SAN MARCOS COP CAME TO HELP PUSH THE CAR FURTHER IN TO SAFETY BEFORE THE ELECTRICITY OF THE CAR COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN AND MY KEY FOB WAS STUCK IN THE IGNITION. I HAD IT TOWED TO A BMW REPAIR SHOP. I WAITED ANOTHER DAY FOR THEM TO OPEN BEING IT A HOLIDAY WEEKEND. THEN THEY CHECKED WHAT HAPPENED. THEY GAVE ME A LIST. THEY SAID THE VACUUM PUMP MELTED. THE REPORT SAID THAT, PULL VALVE COVER FOUND TIMING CHAIN GUIDES BROKEN DUE TO LOOSE CHAIN SLAPPING THEM NEEDS TIMING CHAIN, GUIDES AND ALL ASSOCIATED SEALS AND BOLTS. THEY GAVE ME A QUOTE OF $2300.00 FOR ALL THE PARTS NEEDED TO GET IT FIXED AND LABOR. I DID NOT GET ANY WARNING LIGHT WITHIN THE 4 MONTHS THAT I HAVE THE CAR. UNTIL I WAS IN THE HIGHWAY AND THE CAR WAS STALLING. I WAS IN A VERY DANGEROUS PLACE FOR THIS TO HAPPEN AND NOW I AM STUCK WITH SUCH A HIGH BILL AND UNCERTAINTY WHETHER MY CAR WILL BREAK DOWN AGAIN IN THE NEAR FUTURE AFTER I GET THE PROBLEM FIXED. THE BMW REPAIR SHOP SAID THE ENGINE DOESN'T SEEM DAMAGED BUT I STILL HAVE YET TO FIND OUT WHEN THEY START THE WORKING ON THE CAR.
2015-11-21
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-30
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: BLIZZAK LM-60 RFT. 195/55-16, RUN FLATS. RIGHT REAR TIRE SPLIT ON TREAD SO THAT ONE CAN SEE STEEL BELTS. SPLIT IS FROM OUTSIDE EDGE TO ABOUT 2-3 INCHES TOWARDS MIDDLE OF TREAD. JUST REPLACED IT, SO DO NOT HAVE DOT NUMBER. TIRE PURCHASED TWO YEARS AGO, DRIVEN ONLY ONE WINTER SEASON (DECEMBER 2013-MARCH 2014.) NOT DRIVEN ON LAST YEAR. NOTICED DEFECT WHEN CHANGING TIRES IN THE SPRING.
2015-10-08
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-09
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TIMING CHAIN PROBLEMS AT 75,000 MILES ON BASE MODEL 2009 MINI COOPER CONVERTIBLE. WELL KNOWN "DEATH RATTLE" WHEN ENGINE FIRST STARTS. ALSO OIL DIPSTICK WILL NOT GO FULLY BACK INTO THE TUBE (STICKS OUT ABOUT 4 INCHES). DEALER AND MINI CONTACTED. DEALER SAYS TIMING CHAIN ISSUE AND QUOTED ~$1400 REPAIR. ALSO SAID OIL PAN NEEDS REPLACING, ANOTHER ~$300. MINI NOT WILLING TO PAY FOR REPAIR. WELL KNOWN PROBLEM. 500,000 MINI'S RECALLED (S MODEL). NOT SURE WHY BASE MODEL WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL. IT SHOULD BE.
2015-08-18
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-01
- VIN: WMWMR33579T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PASSENGER SEAT MAT SENSOR THAT CONTROLLS AIRBAG.THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL BY BMW FOR MINI COOPERS MADE BETWEEN 2005 AND 2008. BUT THE 2009 HAS BEEN NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL, AND THE DEALER WILL ONLY CHECK IT OUT BY CHARGING THE ME THE OWNER. THIS IS THE SAME ISSUE AS THE 2005-2008 - THE 2009 SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL. THE LIFE OF ANY PASSENGER TRAVELING IN THE 2009 MINI COOPER SEAT IS JEOPARDIZED.
2015-07-08
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-04
- VIN: WMWMS33519T
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: MOTOR WAS FINE THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN ALL THE OIL DRAINED OUT AND THE MOTOR DIED ALL AT ONCE NO LIGHT NO ALERTS JUST WORKING FINE ONE MIN COMPLETE DESTROYED THE NEXT THEY WANT 10K TO REPLACE IT AND THE WARRANTY COMPANY DEMANDS I PAY 3400 TO HAVE THE OLD MOTOR TESTED TO PROVE IT FAILED DESPITE THE MECHANIC SAYING IT HAS AND HEARING A KNOCKING OF THE RODS ON THE LOWER HALF OF THE MOTOR MINI COOPER VEHICLES: 2007 THROUGH 2010 HARDTOP (R56), 2008 THROUGH 2010 CLUBMAN (R55), AND 2009 THROUGH 2010 CONVERTIBLE (R57) (COLLECTIVELY, THE DEFECTIVE VEHICLES). THE DEFECTIVE VEHICLES HAVE A DEFECT WITHIN THEIR TIMING CHAIN TENSIONERS THAT COST, AT MINIMUM, HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS TO FIX AND THAT CAN CAUSE EXTENSIVE ENGINE DAMAGE (THE DEFECT). UNLIKE MOST ENGINES MADE FOR THE CONSUMER MARKET, THE PRINCE ENGINE USES A METAL TIMING CHAIN RATHER THAN A BELT MADE OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS. WHEN THE PRINCE ENGINE WAS FIRST INTRODUCED IN 2004, DEFENDANT TOUTED THE TIMING CHAINS DURABILITY COMPARED TO A TIMING BELT, AND INDICATED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN WOULD REMAIN MAINTENANCE-FREE THROUGHOUT THE FULL RUNNING LIFE OF THE ENGINE. ONE OF THE FEATURES OF THE PRINCE ENGINE DEFENDANT HAS PROMOTED IS THAT THE TIMING CHAIN AND TENSIONER ARE LOCATED INSIDE THE ENGINE BLOCK. HOWEVER, ACTUAL ROAD USE HAS SHOWN A SIGNIFICANT DRAWBACK TO THIS DESIGN: IF THE CHAIN FAILS, DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE CAN BE CATASTROPHIC. ACCORDING TO DEFENDANTS WARRANTIES AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAM, THE CHAIN AND TENSIONER DO NOT REQUIRE SERVICE, AND THE ON-BOARD COMPUTER DOES NOT MONITOR CHAIN CONDITION. ACCORDINGLY, PROBLEMS WITH THE TIMING CHAIN TENSIONER CAN EASILY GO UNNOTICED AND CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. A DEFECTIVE TIMING CHAIN CAN CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE AND PRESENT SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERNS. WHEN A CHAIN TENSIONER FAILS, THE VEHICLE WILL LOSE ALL POWER, EVEN WHILE IT IS IN MOTION.
2015-06-26
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-24
- VIN: WMWMF73528T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: VEHICLE STARTING MAKING A RATTLING NOISE IN THE LEFT FRONT TIMING CHAIN AREA, TOOK TO LOCAL MECHANIC AND HE ADVISED ONE OF THE TIMING TENSIONERS HAD SNAPPED, PROBABLY DUE TO THE TIMING CHAIN HAVING TOO MUCH SLACK, I WAS ADVISED THAT THERE MAY BE A RECALL ON THESE AS IT SEEMS TO BE HAPPENING A LOT. HE ADVISED ME TO REPLACE THE TIMING CHAIN AND TENSIONERS IN ORDER TO NOT RISK THE TENSIONER FAILING AND CAUSING CATASTOPHIC ENGINE FAILURE, PARTS COST IS ABOUT $900 AND INSTALLATION ABOUT $500. THIS SEEMS TO BE GOING ON A LOT AND THERE IS LOTS OF INFO ON THE INTERNET STATING IT IS AN ISSUE THAT CAN CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH SHOULD THE VEHICLE BE INOPERABLE ON A HIGHWAY OR IN TRAFFIC.
2015-04-29
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-29
- VIN: WMWMF73559T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: RATTLING NOISE FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE ENGINE. TOOK TO MINI, TIMING CHAIN WAS STRETCHED OUT. 2000K FIX CAR HAS LESS THAN 84K MILES. HAD THE SAME PROBLEM ABOUT 13 MONTHS AGO. SAID IT WAS THE TENSIONER BUT CHAIN WAS FINE. THAT WAS AT 64K MILES. IN 13MONTHS SPENT 3K ON THE SAME ISSUE. *TR
2009 Mini Cooper s recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2009 Mini Cooper s.
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.
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.
2012-01-11
- Manufacturer: BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
- Summary: BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007-2011 MINI COOPER S, 2008-2011 MINI COOPER S CLUBMAN, 2009-2011 MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE, 2009-2011 MINI COOPER JCW, 2009-2011 MINI COOPER JCW CLUBMAN, 2009-2011 COOPER JCW CONVERTIBLE, AND 2011 COOPER S COUNTRYMAN PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 14, 2006, THROUGH JANUARY 18, 2011. THE ELECTRIC AUXILIARY WATER PUMP THAT COOLS THE TURBOCHARGER HAS AN ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT BOARD THAT CAN MALFUNCTION AND OVERHEAT.
- Consequence: THE CIRCUIT BOARD MAY SMOLDER WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WATER PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGANDURING FEBRUARY 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-866-275-6464.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Mini Cooper s problems:
2009 Cooper S - Major Engine Problem - Advice? - North American ...
https://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/stock-problems-issues/326542-2009-cooper-s-major-engine-problem-advice.html
Apr 24, 2018 ... ... 2009 MINI Cooper S. Purchased used from CarMax a little less than a year ago. Had 49,xxx miles on it when purchased. Initially car ran great ...
Known issues in 2009 to 2011 cooper S JCWs : r/MINI
https://www.reddit.com/r/MINI/comments/14d61ww/known_issues_in_2009_to_2011_cooper_s_jcws/
Jun 19, 2023 ... i have this same engine at almost 200k miles, if you look after it, it's not as bad as people are saying. You need good service history with ...
R56 Known Issues for R56 2009 - Cooper S - North American ...
https://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/r56-hatch-talk-2007/298325-known-issues-for-r56-2009-cooper-s.html
Jan 25, 2016 ... R56 :: Hatch Talk (2007+) - Known Issues for R56 2009 - Cooper S - So these are the issues that I've came across and fixed. 1.
Newb Inquiry - How Reliable is 2009 Mini Cooper S JCW : r/MINI
https://www.reddit.com/r/MINI/comments/ye2y4w/newb_inquiry_how_reliable_is_2009_mini_cooper_s/
Oct 26, 2022 ... Timing chain, HPFP, valves, valve cover gasket, water pump, turbochargers, oil consumption, ECU's can fry from water intrusion…..
2009 Mini Cooper Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2009-mini-cooper/problems
Top 2009 Mini Cooper Problems · Clutch May Wear Prematurely. 170 people have reported this · Electric Door Locks May Malfunction. 163 people have reported this.
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