Mini Cooper 2004 problems

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Mini Cooper may refer to:

  • Performance Cars of the original Mini series with uprated drive train and brakes, called the "Mini Cooper", made by the British Motor Corporation and its successors 1961–1971, and 1990–2000
  • Cars of the Mini (marque), including a number of different models produced by BMW since 2000 with the "Mini Cooper" title: MINI Hatch, introduced in early 2000, second generation from 2006, third from 2014

See also

  • Cooper Car Company
Mini Cooper 2004

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Common Mini Cooper 2004 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Mini Cooper 2004, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

  • Oil Leaks from Engine Mounts: Engine mounts in the Mini Cooper 2004 are prone to leaking, causing the engine to sound abnormal. If oil residue is visible around the mount or on the body, it is advised to replace the leaking mounts to prevent engine damage.
  • Coolant System Issues: The seam between the top and bottom of the overflow tanks in the Cooper S engine tends to leak, resulting in a loss of pressure in the coolant system. Detecting and fixing these leaks promptly is crucial to prevent overheating and potential engine damage.
  • Automatic Transmission Problems: The automatic base model with the CVT (W10 engine) in the Mini Cooper 2004 can experience significant issues with the transmission. Repairing or replacing the CVT transmission can be extremely costly, often exceeding the value of the car itself.
  • Issues with Cooper S Automatic: Mini Cooper S models with the W11 engine, particularly the automatic versions, are prone to problems. These issues are usually repairable by replacing valve body solenoids or adjusting the solenoids. Seeking assistance from a knowledgeable technician familiar with the 09G transmission/valve body is recommended.
  • Power Steering Pump Failure: The power steering pump used in the Mini Cooper is susceptible to failure, often due to low fluid levels or a faulty coolant fan. Regular inspections by an import car service are essential to detect weak performance or leaks in the power steering system.
  • Timing Chain Wear: Movement and slack in the timing chain assembly can occur over time, leading to engine noise, vibrations, or power loss. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to the engine and avoid increased repair costs.
  • Transmission Issues: Mini Cooper models, especially those produced before 2010, have reported automatic transmission failures at relatively low mileage. Regular transmission fluid changes are recommended to prevent build-up and potential transmission problems.

These common problems with the Mini Cooper 2004 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of issues to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.

Mini Cooper 2004 engine

What is the most common problem with Mini Cooper?

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.

What year is bad 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.

How long will a 2004 Mini Cooper S last?

In terms of lifespan, they're probably about average, leaning toward performing better than most vehicles. A typical Mini Cooper will probably last about 10-18 years on average, for most drivers.

Which year Mini Coopers is most reliable?

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.

Mini Cooper 2004 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mini Cooper problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Steering problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Power train problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Mini Cooper 2004 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints Mini Cooper 2004

The NHTSA has received 528 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mini Cooper 2004. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mini Cooper 2004 vehicles.

2022-04-26

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-04-24
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: WMWRC33454T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: Mini felt like it was getting pushed by the wind . Realized wasn't wind Mini loss of completely all functions of steering wheel. On super busy highway. Devine intervention Was in far left car went left to right lanes then hit median gaurd rail spun around Finally got it to stop. Never Hitting and hurting anyone around me. Nobody hit me. Car is totalled ! Still at tow place. I saw my life flash as cars were zooming by me. Someone should be held responsible for my car and almost my life. Called out of work can't move upper body that well.
2020-07-20

STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-07-18
  • VIN: WMWRE33424T
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
  • Summary: WAS DRIVING CAR ON 18 JULY 2020 AND POWER STEERING QUIT WORKING AND MADE STEERING DIFFICULT, ALSO COOLANT FAN,LOW SPEED AND HIGH SPEED STOPPED WORKING SAME TIME AS POWER STEERING QUIT. THE ASC LIGHT CAME ON AND IT WILL NOT TURN OFF. NO BLOWN FUSES IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT OR BY DRIVERS KICK PANEL. I WAS DRIVING THE CAR ON A STATE ROAD WHEN THIS OCCURRED.
2020-03-31

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-02-29
  • VIN: WMWRE33464T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MINI COOPER S. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A TURN, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL GRINDING SOUND COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THERE WAS A POWER STEERING FLUID LEAK PRESENT. THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MINI OF STEVENS CREEK LOCATED AT (4201 STEVENS CREEK BLVD, SANTA CLARA, CA 95051), AND DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE STEERING PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 156,000.
2020-01-28

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-12-13
  • VIN: WMWRE33434T
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE POWER STEERING IS VERY STIFF TO DRIVE AND CANNOT DRIVE MY COOPER BECAUSE I CAN NO LONGER STEER THE VEHICLE.
2019-11-26

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-24
  • VIN: WMWRE33474T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: WHEN YOU TURN WHEEL LEFT OR RIGHT IT MAKES A NOISE AND IT'S VERY HARD TO TURN. SO I THINK IT'S THE STEERING: ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM. RECALL ID # 240625.
2019-09-30

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-09-06
  • Number Of Deaths: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: WMWRC33424T
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR 2004 MINI COOPER HOME TRAVELING UPHILL ON A STEEP PAVED MOUNTAIN ROADWAY TRAVELING A MAXIMUM OF 15 MPH WHEN FOR SOME UNKNOWN REASON THE VEHICLE LEFT THE ROADWAY; STRUCK A TREE WITH ITS LEFT FRONT AND BURST INTO AN EXPLODING FIRE KILLING MY WIFE WHO WAS NOT ABLE TO ESCAPE THE BURNING VEHICLE. THE NC STATE POLICE ARE INVESTIGATING THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE AND DEATH. THEY DO NOT KNOW YET WHETHER THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE PRIOR TO STRIKING THE TREE BUT, FEEL THE FIRE COULD NOT HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE VEHICLE STRIKING THE TREE AT A LOW IMPACT AND SPEED. NC MV ACCIDENT REPORT#[XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TT
2019-06-30

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-06-30
  • VIN: WMWRE33494T
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: ALL MODELS FROM 2005 ONWARD HAVE BEEN RECALLED, YET EARLIER MODELS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH NON FUNCTIONING AIRBAGS. THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT IS ON CONTINUALLY, AND THERE ARE KNOWN PROBLEMS WITH WIRING, PRESSURE MATS AND CONNECTORS IN THESE VEHICLES. BMW IS INTENTIONALLY IGNORING THESE ISSUE. MY OWN PERSONAL VEHICLE HAS THIS PROBLEM AND AS A GOVERNMENT MANDATED SAFETY DEVICE I BELIEVE THAT EARLIER MODELS OF MINI COOPERS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL!
2019-05-24

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-29
  • VIN: WMWRC33494T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: MAINLY WHILE COLD AND AT LOW SPEED'S THE WHEEL SUDDENLY BECOMES VERY HARD TO TURN AND I WAS TOLD BY A MECHANIC BUT IT'S A FAULTY HYDRAULIC POWER STEERING PROBLEM
2019-05-16

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-28
  • VIN: WMWRC33494T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: VERY HARD TO TURN STEERING WHEEL AT TIMES ESPECIALLY WHEN MOVING SLOWLY; COMING TO A TURN AT A LIGHT, BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPOT, ETC.
2018-11-24

POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-11-23
  • VIN: WMWRC33434T
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: 2004 MINI COOPER PURCHASED NEW APROX 62 MILES ON IT AND THE CVT TRANSMISSION IS GONE & THERE WAS A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THIS, I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED AND WANT THIS FIXED AT NO COST TO ME. AT APROX. 50 TO 60 MPH THE CAR ENGINES GOES WAY BEYOND THE PROPER RPM.
2018-10-18

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
  • VIN: WMWRC33484T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MINI COOPER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL WAS DIFFICULT TO TURN IN EITHER DIRECTION. THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING WARNING INDICATOR WAS NOT ILLUMINATED. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY, AND WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V660000 (STEERING) AND NHTSA ACTION NUMBERS: EA11005 (STEERING) AND PE10038 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
2018-09-17

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-07-28
  • VIN: WMWRE33424T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: POWER STEERING HAS BEEN AN ISSUE OVER A YEAR OR TWO. NO TOTAL FAILURES BUT IT DOES NOT QUALIFY AS POWER STEERING. THE COOLING FAN DOES NOT WORK. STEERING IS NOT GOOD....FOR POWERED STEERING THAT IS. SLOW SPEED STEERING IS HORRENDOUS AND NON EXISTENT.
2018-06-12

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-06-11
  • VIN: WMWRE33494T
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT COMES ON AND STAYS ILLUMINATED. WE ARE UNSURE IF THE SYSTEM IS WORKING PROPERLY. WE HAVE NOT RUN DIAGNOSTIC CODES ON THE SYSTEM.
2018-05-17

STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-04-11
  • VIN: WMWRC33444T
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: I OWN A 2004 MINI COOPER. I WAS DRIVING AND LOST ALL POWER STEERING ALMOST CAUSING A ACCIDENT. THERE IS A OPEN RECALL ON THIS ISSUE. I CONTACTED MINI AND THEY INFORMED ME THAT MY VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED WITH THE RECALL. I EXPLAINED THAT MY CAR WAS EXPERIENCING ALL THE ISSUES ADDRESSED IN THE RECALL, BUT THEY STILL WOULD NOT HELP ME OUT.
2017-08-14

STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-08-06
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: WMWRE33414T
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS HARD TO STEER AND SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. TOOK THE CAR HOME, DID NOT SEE FLAMES, PARKED CAR IN THE DRIVEWAY SWITCHED CARS AND LEFT. RECEIVED A CALL FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT THAT MY MINI WAS ON FIRE AND I NEEDED TO RETURN TO MY HOUSE.
2017-08-04

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-07-06
  • VIN: WMWRE33414T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: THE POWER STEERING IN MY 2004 MINI COOPER S FAILED LAST MONTH, PROMPTING ME TO RESEARCH WAYS TO FIX THE VEHICLE ONLINE. I FOUND THAT MINI USA HAD ISSUED A RECALL ON MY CAR, BUT WAS INFORMED BY THE DEALERSHIP AND THEN MINI THAT MY VIN NUMBER DID NOT FALL AMONG THOSE VEHICLES RECALLED. I'M WONDERING WHETHER MINI APPROPRIATELY LIMITED THEIR RECALL CONSIDERING MY VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEM THAT PROMPTED THE RECALL, AND FALLS WITHIN THE SAME MODEL AND YEAR RANGE. I THINK THE DEPARTMENT SHOULD INVESTIGATE WHETHER TO EXPANDING THE RECALL.
2017-06-13

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-06-12
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: WMWRC334X4T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: MINI COOPER POWER STEERING PUMP FAILURE. VEHICLE WAS RECENTLY DRIVEN AND WAS PARKED ON THE STREET. WE STARTED THE VEHICLE AND BACKED UP TO PULL OUT OF THE PARKING SPOT. THERE WAS NO POWER STEERING. WE HAD TO ATTEMPT TO BACK UP AGAIN TO GET OFF OF THE STREET AND IN TO THE PARKING SPOT. A BURNING SMELL AND SMOKE STARTED FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE POWER STEERING PUMP AND COOLING FAN HAD FAILED. THERE ARE DOCUMENTED ISSUES WITH THIS FAILURE. WHEN I CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP, I WAS TOLD THE EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR THIS ISSUE EXPIRED IN APRIL. THIS HAPPENED JUNE 12TH.
2016-11-08

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-10-01
  • VIN: WMWRE33484T
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE PRESSURE MAT BUT THE DEALERSHIP INDICATES THERE IS NO OPEN RECALL ON THIS PARTICULAR CAR EVEN THOUGH MANY CARS WITH SIMILAR PROBLEM WERE RECALLED. SCAN TOOL INDICATES PASSENGER SIDE PRESSURE MAT. THE DEALERSHIP INDICATED THIS MODEL WAS OUTSIDE OF THE RECALLED VINS. WE DON'T KNOW WHETHER THE AIRBAG WOULD WORK OR NOT IF IT WERE NEEDED.
2016-08-16

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-08-15
  • VIN: WMWRC33444T
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MINI COOPER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S BATTERY WAS LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE FIREWALL ABOVE THE GEAR BOX. THE BATTERY ACID LEAKED ONTO TWO SHIFTER CABLE LINKAGES, WHICH CAUSED THEM TO MELT UNEXPECTEDLY. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT GEARS. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE SAME FAILURE OCCURRED ONE OTHER TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED SIX MONTHS AGO BECAUSE OF THE SAME FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AGAIN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
2016-08-03

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-10-13
  • VIN: WMWRC33474T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MINI COOPER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V660000 (STEERING) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
2016-07-14

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-04
  • VIN: WMWRC33454T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MINI COOPER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING AND THE POWER STEERING WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V660000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE DEALER REFUSED TO PERFORM THE REPAIR DUE TO THE UPDATED PART PREVIOUSLY BEING INSTALLED ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 180,000. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
2016-06-21

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-16
  • VIN: WMWRC33494T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MINI COOPER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V660000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE REMEDIED; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT THEY DID NOT INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS NOTIFIED BY A TECHNICIAN THAT IT SHOULD HAVE TAKEN FOUR HOURS TO COMPLETE THE INSPECTION AND PERFORM ANY NECESSARY REPAIRS. THE CONTACT DID NOT BELIEVE THE REPAIR WAS ADEQUATELY PERFORMED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. UPDATED 09/27/16*LJ CONSUMER STATED THE DEALERSHIP SAID CAR WAS FINE, CONSUMER WANTS TO KNOW IT IF IT WAS RECALLED WHY THE PARTS WERE NOT REPLACED UPDATED 6/12/18*JB
2016-06-17

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-16
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: WMWRE33494T
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: DRIVING DOWN HONDA PARKWAY I HEARD POP SOUND. TPMS LIGHT STARTED FLASHING AND SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT FROM UNDER HOOD. I PULLED OFF OF ROAD INTO A GAS STATION. AT THAT TIME I DIDN'T HAVE ANY POWER BRAKES.THE CAR WAS FULLY ENGULFED IN FLAMES IN ABOUT 10 MINS. THE FIRE DEPT PUT OUT FIRE.
2016-03-18

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-12-07
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MINI COOPER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V660000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
2016-03-15

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-10-31
  • VIN: WMWRE33434T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MINI COOPER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT HAD TO APPLY FORCE TO THE STEERING WHEEL IN ORDER TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V660000 (STEERING) HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS UNAVAILABLE.

Mini Cooper 2004 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Mini Cooper 2004.

2015-10-15
  • Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
  • Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
  • Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2002-2005 MINI Cooper and Cooper S vehicles and 2005 Cooper and Cooper S Convertible vehicles. The affected vehicles may experience temporary or permanent loss of the electro-hydraulic steering assistance.
  • Consequence: If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
  • Remedy: MINI will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the electro-hydraulic power steering system, replacing the components and wiring, as necessary, free of charge. Interim notices were mailed to owners on December 10, 2015. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525.
2009-05-11
  • Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
  • Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2008-08-11
  • Manufacturer: K2 MOTOR CORPORATION
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
  • Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
2004-07-12
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
  • Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FLAT TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTLY PROGRAMMED. IN THE EVENT OF A FLAT TIRE, AN AUDIBLE SIGNAL WILL NOT SOUND TO ALERT THE DRIVER TO A FLAT TIRE.
  • Consequence: DUE TO THE LACK OF AN AUDIBLE SIGNAL, THE DRIVER MAY NOT BE AWARE OF A FLAT TIRE, WHICH COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE VEHICLE'S SOFTWARE IN ORDER TO ACTUATE THE FLAT TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM'S AUDIBLE SIGNAL. THE RECALL BEGAN OCTOBER 13, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MINI CUSTOMER RELATIONS AT 1-866-275-6464.

Negative Mini Cooper 2004 car reviews

  1. Raymundo Grant 2024-09-12

    I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you mentioned owning a Mini Cooper back in 2004, which sounds like it was a fun car to drive. However, it's unfortunate to hear that you experienced some reliability issues with it. It sounds like you had to spend quite a bit of money on maintenance over the years, which can be frustrating. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

  2. Mikel Hamill 2024-05-23

    I really appreciate the spaciousness and appearance of the car, but unfortunately, I have had some issues with its quality. Over the past 4 years, I have spent almost $5000 on repairs, including a dead battery after just 3 years. After paying $700 for an oil change and inspection, the check engine light came on and the car was sputtering due to bad spark plug wires. Later on, the oil light came on and it required a switch, engine harness, and starter, which had to be done at a dealership and took a week to complete. Fortunately, they had a loaner available. Although I am hesitant to take this car on a road trip, I am considering trading it in for a Honda. I never had such expensive repairs with my Honda.

  3. Noble Runte 2024-02-20

    My car has been to the dealer 14 times for repairs, including one instance where it had to be towed. Despite making over 25 calls to the MiniHelp line, all within a year, I have lost all enjoyment of the car. Unfortunately, it seems that my car is a lemon, with too many issues to list. The most frustrating aspect is that BMW will only fix an issue if it is present when the car is brought to the dealer. For example, my power steering only got fixed after the car overheated and had to be towed in, luckily the power steering wasn't working when it was dropped off.

Positive Mini Cooper 2004 car reviews

  1. Royce Kautzer 2024-11-23

    I really love this car! It's so much fun to drive and even just to look at! It always puts a smile on my face and I've noticed that it has the same effect on other people too!

  2. Benedict Green 2024-11-04

    Great car! It's fun to drive. I recommend it to anyone. This car is great, so go buy yours today!

  3. Felipe Leuschke 2024-11-02

    I call my little jewel my bump in the road. Be sure to get a bright color so you are seen. I love it.

  4. Quinten Bailey 2024-10-29

    This car is such a pleasure to drive!

  5. Loyal Collins 2024-10-25

    Hey there! I'm glad you're interested in this car. It's a great all-around vehicle with a sleek and stylish design. It's also incredibly fast and fun to drive, which is sure to turn heads. I'm excited to hear that you're looking forward to the convertible version!

Leave your review of Mini Cooper 2004

Additional sources

More sources of information about Mini Cooper 2004 problems:

R50/R53 Pitfalls in buying a 2004 Mini Cooper S? - North American ...
R50/R53 Pitfalls in buying a 2004 Mini Cooper S? - North American ...
https://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/r50-r53-hatch-talk-2002-2006/242561-pitfalls-in-buying-a-2004-mini-cooper-s.html

Dec 20, 2012 ... Leaks, including oil pan gaset, crank sensor seal, axle seal, various power steering lines. ... Scared yet? Don't be: just include them in your ...

2004 Mini Cooper Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
2004 Mini Cooper Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2004-mini-cooper/problems

Top 2004 Mini Cooper Problems · Clutch May Wear Prematurely · Electric Door Locks May Malfunction · Electric Power Steering Pump May Fail · Service Recommend ...

2004 Mini Cooper S - Starting issues - North American Motoring
2004 Mini Cooper S - Starting issues - North American Motoring
https://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/stock-problems-issues/323561-2004-mini-cooper-s-starting-issues.html

Jan 28, 2018 ... The first things that are coming to mind is fuel filter and pump, but you indicated those have been replaced already. The next item i would ...

2004 Mini Cooper - Mini Cooper S - Problems starting
2004 Mini Cooper - Mini Cooper S - Problems starting
https://repairpal.com/mini-cooper-s-problems-starting-242

May 4, 2010 ... Every morning when I start my Mini, I need to crank the starter motor for at least 4-5 seconds. After doing so, the car starts and runs ...

Talk me out of 1st Gen Mini Cooper (2001-2006)| Grassroots ...
Talk me out of 1st Gen Mini Cooper (2001-2006)| Grassroots ...
https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/grm/talk-me-out-of-1st-gen-mini-cooper-2001-2006/159636/page1/

Only had issues once we swapped in a cooper S drivetrain. ... I can only offer first-hand experience with a 2004 MINI ... I've disassembled two of ...

Other years of Mini Cooper

mini cooper 2005 photo
Cooper 2005
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4

20

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mini cooper 2006 photo
Cooper 2006
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22

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mini cooper 2007 photo
Cooper 2007
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25

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mini cooper 2008 photo
Cooper 2008
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283

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mini cooper 2009 photo
Cooper 2009
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29

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mini cooper 2010 photo
Cooper 2010
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92

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