2010 Mini Cooper problems
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
Social links
Common 2010 Mini Cooper problems
The Mini Cooper, a compact car known for its unique design and sporty handling, has been a popular choice among car enthusiasts. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to common problems. This article will focus on the 2010 Mini Cooper and discuss some of the most frequently reported issues by owners.
- Timing Chain Issues: Another common problem with the 2010 Mini Cooper is the timing chain, which can begin to rattle when starting the engine. This issue is more prevalent in second-generation models and can be exacerbated by inadequate maintenance. Replacing the timing chain can be an expensive repair, so it's essential to find out if the vehicle's previous owners kept up with the recommended maintenance and if the timing chain has been previously replaced.
- Power Steering Pump Failure: The power steering pump in the 2010 Mini Cooper is prone to failure, often attributed to low fluid or a faulty coolant fan. Regular inspections by a qualified import car repair shop can help identify weak performance and potential leaks before they become a significant issue.
- Water Pump and Thermostat Housing Leaks: The water pump and thermostat housing in the 2010 Mini Cooper are known to leak, requiring replacement every 50,000 miles. These parts are prone to leaking, so it's crucial to have them replaced by a qualified import car repair shop before damage occurs.
- Transmission Issues: The Mini Cooper has long struggled with transmission issues, with the manufacturer suggesting that the transmission fluid not be changed. This recommendation has led to problems for many Mini owners, and qualified mechanics strongly advise changing the transmission fluid at regular intervals.
- Clutch Failure: Clutch failure is a common problem in the 2010 Mini Cooper, often attributed to extreme wear and tear or hard use. Being mindful of driving sensibly and staying within the vehicle's limitations can help prevent clutch failure.
- Cooling System Issues: The cooling system in the 2010 Mini Cooper can have issues, primarily due to the plastic radiator supports located in the front of the vehicle. These supports are vulnerable to impact, and any significant bump to the front of the vehicle can damage them, leading to coolant leaks and overheating.
In conclusion, while the 2010 Mini Cooper is a popular and fun-to-drive vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Owners should be aware of these issues and take preventative measures to address them before they become significant repair jobs. Regular maintenance, inspections, and being mindful of driving sensibly can go a long way in ensuring the longevity and reliability of the 2010 Mini Cooper.
Is the 2010 Mini Cooper a reliable car?
I have asked many owner's of the Mini Cooper and they all agreed that loved it, being both fun to drive and reliable.
What is the engine problem with the 2010 Mini Cooper?
Issue #1: Engine Overheating in Mini Cooper S (2007-2010)
This typically affects models built from 2007-2010 with the 1.6 litre turbo engine. The root causes include a faulty electric thermostat that fails to open, a blocked/collapsing lower radiator hose, and leaks from the water pump or radiator.
What is the common problem of Mini Cooper?
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.
Are 2010 Mini Coopers expensive to fix?
The average annual repair cost is $846 which means it has higher than average ownership costs. While the frequency of repairs is higher than normal, the severity of those issues is average, so your Cooper may have a few more shop visits when compared to other models.
2010 Mini Cooper 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:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2010 Mini Cooper vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2010 Mini Cooper
The NHTSA has received 92 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2010 Mini Cooper. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2010 Mini Cooper vehicles.
2024-10-17
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-02
- VIN: WMWMF3C56AT
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag light is deployed when passenger is sitting in seat. Module under seat is not recognizing the passenger and airbags are turned off. This is a safety concern in likeliness of an accident the passenger could be injured.
2024-06-27
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- VIN: WMWMF7C50AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The car showed a check vehicle light. Looks like a car being lifted up (red light). The windows do not move up or down, light switches do not work and the blinkers do not work. I was told by my mechanic it was the footwell module. I read there was a recall for this but my VIN wasn't on the list. Is it possible to check to see if it should have been on the list for the recall?
2024-05-05
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-12
- VIN: WMWMF7C51AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Footwell Control Module was recalled on 12 May 2023 NHTSA Recall Number 23V337. This item has been outstanding for almost a year and I am not able to repair it yet because a manufacturer remedy is not yet available. In rare cases corrosion could result in short circuit, thermal runaway and injury. Please compel the manufacturer to develop a remedy immediately.
2024-04-25
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-24
- VIN: 2GC4YNEYXR1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Trailer brakes disconnected in 18k lb trailer while driving down mountain. This bulletin is the issue, should be a recall. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-04-14
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-21
- VIN: WMWMF7C51AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: The FRM module on my 2010 MINI Cooper S failed in 2022. I was unable to access multiple functions on the vehicle, including interior and exterior lighting, window controls, and other operations that worked randomly during this time. I needed my car fully operational for work commuting so I had to find a replacement FRM, which I did from an OEM MINI parts website, [XXX] . The new FRM I purchased was matched to my vehicle's VIN and installed and programmed by my local MINI shop, Detroit Tuned [XXX] ) , in Clawson, MI. The total bill for this was over $800 (I have receipts for the purchase and the install). The recall notice from MINI/BMW came in 2023, and according to their website there is still no fix, which makes no sense since I bought an OEM replacement that was fitted to my car in 2022, as I noted here. How can a part that when fails can potentially cause vehicle fires ("thermal incident", per their recall notes) NOT be replaced immediately by the manufacturer? And how can MINI/BMW say they can't get the part when an OEM version is available online? The delay in this fix is unacceptable. My OEM replacement FRM works perfectly, but I am out the $800+ I spent to get it since MINI didn't then and still doesn't have them available, "officially". So if they ever get the part and replace my fully operational replacement for free, I am still out the money I spent in 2020 to make my car operationally safe. What can I do to get a refund from MINI/BMW? Thanks. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-03-27
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-08
- VIN: WMWMF3C53AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On [XXX], mileage was 47,744 I took Mini for service, and told them that the front right headlight didn't work, they replaced the light bulb and they found out that the headlight was still inoperable, and internally shorted. They didn't want to include it in the extended warranty. The mini has electrical issues (FRM). The headlight wires are damaged inside the light housing and are bare-striped even if you change the light bulb when you hit a bump the wires touch the bulb short out. So my car was under the extended warranty when I took it to Braman Motors Miami for service but they failed to correct the problem. BMW of North America extended the warranty for 10 years /156,000 miles whichever occurs first, as determined by your vehicle's service date (original service date is 3/16/2010) extending the limited warranty for the Footwell Module (FRM) This problem is a known problem by BMW / Mini they currently have open recalls on the model, series, production date, and year. but since hardly anyone files complaints to NHTSA in Fla, this problem is ongoing. [XXX], under violation of federal law (The Safety Act) dealers can't sell, lease, or deliver any vehicle until recall repairs have been performed. But they overlook the problem at the dealership when the car is in the shop for service. I was given a multi-point inspection it passed 28 of them LOL, but the first one (Operation of all light and signals, (passed)...lol So how can this test pass? When I picked up the Mini nothing was working turn signals, the front right headlight, windows, hazard lights, fog lights. However, the dealer overlooks the safety recall and wants to charge the client an additional charge to diagnose the FRM. They gave me an estimate for $1,985.38 if I had approved the work that they said the Mini needed, but nothing to do with the recall (FRM) is this how BMW handles this safety recall? They don't care to solve the problem at any level dealer or manufacturer. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-03-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-17
- VIN: WMWMF3C57AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Mini Cooper. 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 while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that she was unable to check for warning lights due to a previous failure of the instrument cluster. The contact was able to coast the vehicle over to the side of the road. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle and had the vehicle towed to the residence. The contact stated that the stall was an intermittent failure and occurred at various speeds. Additionally, the contact stated that there were various other electrical failures with the power windows. Additionally, the sunroof was unable to open or close as needed. The contact stated that the vehicle was also intermittently not able to turn off after turning the ignition key to the off position and remained running until the vehicle turned off independently. The contact drove the vehicle to a local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System). The failure mileage was approximately 30,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-03-11
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-11
- VIN: WMWMF3C52AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Mini Cooper. 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 vehicle was experiencing an electrical failure. The contact stated that the turn signals, the headlights, the power window switches, the gauges and other unknown components were inoperable. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle had locked independently. The local dealer was contacted and informed the contact that they needed to pay a fee for the repairs. 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, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-03-08
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-08
- VIN: WMWMF3C55AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Mini Cooper. 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 power window switch had failed to operate as needed intermittently. Additionally, the contact stated that the gauges were inoperable. An unknown dealer was contacted and advised the contact to tow the vehicle to their location for a diagnostic test. 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. The failure mileage was approximately 123,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-02-27
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
- VIN: WMWMF3C59AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Mini Cooper. 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 made aware of the issue 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 contact recently stated that the vehicle failed to start without warning. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-02-16
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-07
- VIN: WMWMR3C53AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My 2010 Mini Cooper convertible recently had an electrical failure. I lost power while driving and the power steering wouldn’t work. Once it started again the blinkers wouldn’t work and brake lights and radio worked intermittently. I took it to the mechanic and the diagnostic determined that the footwell module is bad. Unfortunately this part is apparently on back order so the part cannot be ordered. The car is not safe to drive nor is a solution available. I looked up recalls on Mini coopers. This current recall shows that the footwell module has been recalled on 2010 hardtop Mini Coopers: MINI Recall 23V-xxx: Footwell Module Attachments: BMW AG is conducting a Voluntary Safety Recall (effective May 11, 2023) on certain Model Year 2007 - 2014 MINI vehicles that were produced between November 16, 2006, and June 27, 2014. (Due to several contributing factors (environmental, certain US States’ wintertime road treatment, vehicle design configuration and age), over time, the Footwell module (FRM) could become susceptible to corrosion) It doesn’t make sense that the exact year Mini in hardtop has the recall. Clearly the footwell modules are a problem in convertibles as well. The wording of the recall says that winter conditions can contribute to the problem. My convertible resided in a winter area for 10 years. I believe that the Mini Cooper convertibles should be included in the recall.
2023-11-28
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-28
- VIN: WMWMF7C56AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Unknown. I’d just like to know how long Mini is allowed to work on a solution for the safety recall for the footwell control module that was issued last May. Given that they have known about problems with this module for years, it seems to me that they should have a solution ready to deploy by now. Thanks for your assistance.
2023-11-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-13
- VIN: WMWMF3C5XAT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Mini Cooper. 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 made aware of the issue. 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 had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-09-15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-10
- VIN: WMWMF7C53AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My vehicle started smelling intensely like burning plastic which filled the compartment. I brought it immediately to the repair shop. I had it towed in. It was apparent something was on fire. When I got to the repair shop (not mini) the electrical components for the interior, turn signals and windows) had failed and smoldered. There were no warning lights. I was told that there was a recall for the Footwell Module and that this had caused the problem. I never received a letter for the recall. The car is registered in California but was first sold in New York and so it qualifies for the recall but when I look up my VIN it says no recalls. The part has failed, and they have told me they have no replacement part yet so my car is now sitting with a car cover with the windows rolled own because they cannot roll up without the Footwell Module. Mini says they have no solution. I had to buy a new car. This was not an easy expense for me as I have limited income due to a disability.
2023-09-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-13
- VIN: WMWMF3C56AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact's son owns a 2010 Mini Cooper Hardtop. The contact stated that the windows failed to roll down, and the turn signals and the headlights were inoperable. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics, where it was diagnosed that the footwell control module (FRM) was severely corroded. The contact later received NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact to take the vehicle to the dealer for a temporary repair and she would later receive reimbursement. The local dealer was contacted, and an appointment was scheduled for temporary repair; however, the manufacturer informed the contact that they would no longer provide reimbursement for any repairs completed prior to the safety recall because the vehicle was drivable despite the safety failures. The vehicle had not yet been repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 47,000.
2023-08-28
AIR BAGS,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-04
- VIN: WMWMR3C59AT
- Components: AIR BAGS,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: 02/16/2023 i purchase mini cooper s from a private owner i paid cash 6,0000 for the car 2 months later my car broke down i had my car towed to a shop i was told that my motor mounts had no bolts or screws and that what cause my car to break down it also broke my intake and wheel bearings had to be replaced total cost 1,600.00 On 08/04/2023 my car breaks down i was told that my valve broke and two cylinders needed to be replace the mechanic also told me that my card did not have the miles that it showing on the odometer when i purchase my car odometer read 156,000 miles i was told my mechanic that my car has almost 300,000 miles and the memory brain on my car is ready it a 2006 but my vin number said 2010 im having to replace my engine on my car still in th shop at i already paid up front 4200
2023-07-19
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WMWMF3C52AT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owned a 2010 Mini Cooper. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, he smelled a burning odor within the interior of the vehicle. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the road, and after visual inspection, he observed flames emanating from the footwell control module. The contact stated that bystanders assisted him in extinguishing the flames. No police or fire reports were filed. No warning lights were illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic; instead, it was towed to the contact's residence, where it remains. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to NHTSA Campaign Number 23V337000 (Electrical System), and the VIN was included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 78,000.
2023-07-05
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
- VIN: WMWMF3C56AT
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
- Summary: Passenger seat occupancy sensor failure. This is a very common fault in the R56 series Mini Cooper. The manufacture has not initiated a recall. There are vendors selling "bypass" kits which will cause unsafe air bag deployment in an infant is in the seat.
2023-05-09
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-01
- VIN: WMWMF7C58AT
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Lights come on & off for airbags and or seat belts - randomly - unknown as to why - or if they are working - sometimes stay on - for 2 weeks - then go off and not on for quite awhile (weeks) brought up as to -why? with no resolution except may need repair? Does not seem to make sense - no accidents or even close to an accident ever occurring- local driving - car maintained.
2023-02-28
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-02
- VIN: WMWMR3C50AT
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Mini Cooper Convertible. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the passenger’s air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V205000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was diagnosed by an independent mechanic and it was determined that the front passenger occupant detection sensor needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 24,000.
2022-12-07
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
- VIN: WMWMS3C56AT
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger seat occupancy sensor has failed, rendering the airbag system permanently turned off until it is replaced. This is an issue that is so common that people are purchasing bypass units off of eBay to trick the computer into thinking the passenger is there. A quick google search will confirm this. It cannot be condoned that a company as large as BMW gets a free pass on refusing to fix this while companies on eBay profit on a device that is clearly not safe to use.
2022-09-23
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- VIN: wmwmf7c56at
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: Transmission/timing chain issue/engine malfunctions
2022-07-09
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-08
- VIN: WMWMS3C57AT
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: The airbag occupancy detection switch in the passenger seat is defective. This is occurring so often on Mini Coopers (R56 models from 2007-2013) that a passenger occupancy defeat switch is being openly sold and YouTube videos are available showing how to fit this device. This disables the occupancy detector switch, causing grave danger of death to infants or children seated in the passenger seat during a collision. MINI is currently charging nearly $1,000 to rectify this common fault. This defect has been confirmed multiple times by MINI, including on my vehicle on 7/8/2022. The component has been inspected by the manufacturer and confirmed to be defective. There were warning lights displayed on the central console, as well as on the driver tachometer every time the car is started. This warning cannot be defeated. This Youtube video (and many others…) have been posted more than 3 years ago about the issue, showing how to disable the warning. This one has over 74,000 views! https://youtu.be/gDlmtygUipM It is WELL overdue that you do something about this clear, present and deadly danger to children! Thank you.
2022-02-25
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-11
- VIN: WMWMF3C58AT
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The car consumes too much oil. This is not mentioned in the car manual. Without enough oil, the car's engine would seize up and stop functioning. Driving with low oil in the system can ruin the vehicle's engine, completely breaking the motor.
2022-01-21
AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-07
- VIN: WMWMS3C57AT
- Components: AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: my passenger airbag lights have been on for months .. cannot remove also my car has been burning oil since i got it
2010 Mini Cooper recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2010 Mini Cooper.
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.
2009-12-15
- Manufacturer: BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 MINI COOPER AND COOPER S VEHICLES FOR FAILING COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE EQUIPPED WITH 17 INCH WHEELS, BUT THEIR LABEL STATES THAT THEY WERE EQUIPPED WITH 16 INCH WHEELS. ALSO THE TIRE PRESSURE STATED ON THE LABEL FOR THE COOPER S IS INCORRECT.
- Consequence: ERRONEOUS TIRE INFORMATION COULD LEAD TO IMPROPER TIRE FITMENT AND INFLATION WHICH COULD AFFECT THE DURABILITY OF THE TIRE AND THE STABILITY OF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 4, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Negative 2010 Mini Cooper car reviews
Positive 2010 Mini Cooper car reviews
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Tired of ordinary cars? Looking for something unique? Look no further than the Mini S! Although we're still in the brake-in period, driving this car is an absolute thrill. With plenty of power, great cornering, and excellent stability, we couldn't ask for anything more. We even added a few options to make it even better. And with an impressive MPG of 29, this car is both fun and efficient. Plus, with its factory turbo, it really moves! We're extremely pleased with our Mini S.
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The N14 engine has a bit of a reputation in Mini history, but it's not all bad news. In fact, the engine has won engine of the year awards for consecutive years, which is a testament to its engineering. When running optimally, they are little beasts. The N14 allows for crazy potential when modded with simple bolt-ons. Getting an intake on it transforms the sound and pulls. A tune is a whole separate story. However, if you're looking for something more reliable, you might want to consider finding an N18 engine, or even the F series generation. It's important to take good care of these cars, as they are German sports cars that are a hoot to drive. That being said, spirited driving is a must. It might sound counterintuitive, but driving these cars the way they're meant to be driven is actually better for them in the long run. If you're not comfortable doing your own repairs, it's important to find a reputable independent shop that specializes in Mini/BMW. The dealers can be a bit of a scam, and you'll likely end up paying more than you need to. Do your research and find a shop near you that you can trust. Overall, Minis are a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and unique driving experience, as well as a chance to learn more about cars.
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I recently purchased a mini convertible that unfortunately had a bad clutch and no brakes. The dealership quoted me a high price for the repairs, so I decided to shop around. Eventually, I found a complete clutch assembly including the flywheel for $1,500.00 and paid for the labor. The entire job cost me $2,300.00. Next, I needed to address the brakes. I purchased drilled and slotted front rotors, new rear rotors, front and rear premium pads with hardware from Rock Auto for only $151.00. I then had them installed for an additional $120.00. In total, I spent about $2,600.00, but now I have a fantastic mini that is both quick and stops fast. It's a great little car that I absolutely love. It's important to remember that all cars require maintenance and repairs, but by avoiding dealerships, you can save a lot of money and still have an awesome car.
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Well, I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying driving so far! It's always important to take your time and get a feel for a new vehicle before making any final judgments. From what you've said, it sounds like the car handles well in day-to-day situations and has great reaction timing, which is always a plus.
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Hey there! Just a quick tip before you decide to buy a turbo engine - have you considered the maintenance costs? It's always good to be aware of these things beforehand.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2010 Mini Cooper problems:
R56 Advice: 2010 Mini Cooper S purchase - North American Motoring
https://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/r56-hatch-talk-2007/299192-advice-2010-mini-cooper-s-purchase.html
Feb 18, 2016 ... If you search through the forums 1, 2 and 3 are common with the N14 engine. You will also find issues with the timing chain and guide mainly on ...
2010 Mini Cooper Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2010-mini-cooper/problems
Top 2010 Mini Cooper Problems · Clutch May Wear Prematurely · Electric Door Locks May Malfunction · Clutch May Wear Prematurely · Electric Door Locks May ...
Are Mini Coopers really that bad? : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/alsjs2/are_mini_coopers_really_that_bad/
Jan 31, 2019 ... Liking oil from every angle; cracked housing oil filter; coolant issues; ignition coils going busted; water getting through the door seal; ...
Mini Mk2 (R56) common problems (2006-2013) | Haynes Publishing
https://haynes.com/en-gb/tips-tutorials/mini-mk2-r56-common-problems-2006-2013
What common problems does the Mini Mk2 have? One common issue is with the 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, which is codenamed N14. This has a known issue with the ...
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 ... Looking to buy a used convertible 2009 to 2011 mini cooper S john cooper works for the wifey. Any known issues to inspect for during the ...
Other years of Mini Cooper
Are you having problems with your 2010 Mini Cooper?
Brennon Luettgen 2024-11-08
I purchased this car brand new in October 2010 mainly for my wife. We have taken it on many trips to Florida, Chicago, Canada, New York, and other places. It is fun to drive and has great performance. However, we have experienced some reliability issues, which have been a bit of a disappointment. We have had to take it back to the dealer many times for engine-related problems such as oil leaks, recalls, starting problems, and check engine light. The engine was made in France by Peugeot, which was a huge mistake. Since the warranty expired, it has been a bit of a money pit. However, the rest of the car is great! The transmission (6-speed automatic) is Japanese and has performed flawlessly for over 100K miles. We have taken good care of the car and have never missed any scheduled maintenance requirements. I have heard that the newer models have a BMW engine, which is something to consider. Overall, we have enjoyed driving this car and wish we had waited for the newer model.
Deshawn Cormier 2024-11-04
We recently purchased a brand new MINI, but before signing the contract, we discovered that the iPhone/USB port was not functioning. The dealer assured us that this was a minor and common issue in some 2010 MINIs and could be easily fixed by updating the software or replacing a small unit called the ULH box, where all the wires for the USB/iPod connect. He mentioned that they could fix it in a few hours if we could wait. Unfortunately, we believed his words and took the car since we were running out of time. However, after sending the car back to them to fix the issue, it turned out to be a more serious problem than we thought, and they requested a few days to fix the USB port.
Devan Wiegand 2024-08-16
I'm an engineer and I have some thoughts on the Mini. While it may not be my first choice, I do think it has some good qualities. However, I personally found that the Toyota Corolla was a better fit for me and my needs. It's always important to make sure everyone is on the same page before making a big purchase like a car.
Brendon Green 2024-08-15
The 2010 Mini Cooper S with 80,000 miles requires a new timing chain, oil pump filter assembly, intake vanos, and hoses, which will cost $8,000. This is a common issue with this model, and unfortunately, Mini Corporate does not offer a solution. Despite the appeal of its cute design and go-kart-like driving experience, the high repair costs and poor customer service make it a less desirable option. It is advisable to steer clear of any Mini models facing similar issues.
Hoyt Becker 2024-04-26
We really enjoyed our time with the car. The materials used were great, and the BOSE sound system was a real treat. We were also impressed with the car's mileage and handling. However, we did experience some issues with the water pump, which unfortunately broke at 48K and cost $700 to repair. Additionally, we noticed that the engine was running quite rough and loud, which we suspect may be due to a known timing chain issue. The transmission also started making loud noises when shifting, and we had only just passed the 50K mark. We did find that the plastic inside the car made a lot of noise on rough roads, which was a bit annoying. Lastly, we had some trouble with the AUX input, which didn't work very well. Despite these issues, we decided to trade the car in and are now very happy with our new VW!