2019 Mini Cooper problems

General information about Mini-Cooper
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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

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Common 2019 Mini Cooper problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 2019 Mini Cooper, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

Automatic Transmission Failure:
- Owners have reported automatic transmission failure, particularly in models produced before 2010. The "sealed for life" transmission style can lead to issues as transmission fluid changes are not possible without opening it up. This can result in build-up over time, causing significant problems.
Timing Chain Movement and Loosening:
- Another common problem is the movement and loosening of the timing chain. Over time, wear and tear can cause slack in the mechanism, leading to strange noises, engine vibrations, or power loss. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to the vehicle and engine.
Airbag Problems:
- Mini Cooper models have faced airbag issues, including a recall in 2015 due to a Takata airbag problem. Owners have reported airbag warning lights 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. Unexpected loss of power steering while driving could lead to damage, injury, or even vehicle fires. Regular inspection of the power steering pump by a mechanic is recommended to prevent such issues.
Front Radiator Support and Coolant Hose Damage:
- The Mini Cooper's front radiator support, made of plastic, is vulnerable to damage from impacts like hitting a curb. Larger bumps can also damage the coolant hose, leading to costly repairs. Owners need to be cautious to avoid such damages.
Oil-related Issues with Timing System:
- The Mini's timing system requires sufficient oil to function properly. Inadequate oil levels can increase friction, potentially causing damage. Regular oil checks and changes are essential to prevent this issue.
Water Pump and Thermostat Housing Leaks:
- Prone to leaking, the water pump and thermostat housing may need replacement every 50,000 miles. Timely replacement by a qualified mechanic is crucial to prevent damage and maintain the vehicle's performance.
Clutch Failure:
- Clutch failure, often due to extreme wear and tear or hard use, can lead to significant repair costs. Driving sensibly and being mindful of limitations can help prevent clutch issues in the Mini Cooper.

These common problems reported by owners of the 2019 Mini Cooper highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of trouble to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.

Is Mini Cooper 2019 reliable?

The 2019 Mini Cooper has a stellar predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of five.

What is a common problem for Mini Cooper?

Mini Coopers are known for their efficient and compact engine designs, but they can be prone to cooling system leaks. Leaking coolant can lead to overheating, engine damage, and costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Common culprits include worn gaskets, cracked hoses, and faulty water pumps.

What generation is a 2019 Mini Cooper?

Third generation (F55/56/57; 2013)

Third generation (F55/56/57)
Production	November 2013 – present (F55 & F56 Hatch) 2015–present (F57 convertible)
Model years	2014–2023
Assembly	United Kingdom: Cowley, Oxfordshire (Plant Oxford) Netherlands: Born (VDL Nedcar)
Designer	Stefan Göppel

What are the disadvantages of Mini Cooper?

Mini Cooper Cons

The car can be expensive because it uses premium fuel. ...
The engine runs quietly when you are gentle with the driving. ...
Mini dealerships are quite hard to find. ...
Well, it may not be a downside but you have to admit that Cooper is a small car.

2019 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:

Steering problems
Unknown or other problems
Electrical system problems
Power train problems
Electronic stability control (esc) problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2019 Mini Cooper vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2019 Mini Cooper complaints

The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2019 Mini Cooper.

2024-04-17

ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-04-10
VIN: WMWXU1C52K2
Components: ENGINE
Summary: my vehicle only has 23000 how is it that vehicle with low miles and 5 yrs old and there telling me that engine mounts are cracked what mini cooper said was that the reason why is because there made out of plastic . how can this be legal what holds the engine in place made from plastic ? i think this need to be investigated and looked into is not safe and is not fair to the consumer to have to pay for this bad choice in design .

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2023-11-13

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-11-10
VIN: WMWXP7C57K2
Components: STEERING
Summary: Car sent a message about vehicle stabilization initiation in the middle of the road. I could barely turn the steering wheel and change the lane. Authorized dealer service center tells me it’s a click and drive wiring malfunction issue. I was on the way to the airport via toll road and highway. Continue to drive with the stabilization in progress could caused me an accident for not being able to move the wheel smoothly.

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2023-10-27

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-10-09
VIN: WMWWH9C59K3
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: *The condensate drain hose is not properly draining the condensate from the vehicle. *Breathing in mold and didn't know it *Yes the problem was confirmed by the dealer *The dealer inspected *no warnings, no recalls

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2023-01-15

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-12-31
VIN: WMWXP7C52K2
Components: STEERING
Summary: I am writing regarding the failure of the steering column on my 2019 Mini Cooper Hardtop. The incident occurred on December 31, 2022. I drove my car to a residential location in Seattle, parked and locked the vehicle. When I returned to my car and started it up to move it, I realized I had no control of the car because the steering wheel was spinning uncontrollably. When the car was towed to Seattle Mini, the AAA tow truck driver and the dealership service department personnel receiving the car said they had seen nothing like this before. Seattle Mini takes the position that the steering column was forcibly broken due to an accident which is not the case. I’m very concerned about the safety of this vehicle and not comfortable with Seattle Mini’s theory as to the cause of the failure since no accident or “great force” event occurred as described in the service department video. If this had occurred while I was on-route to the location where the car was parked, the outcome could have been catastrophic. We would like to confer with you this coming week on the best course of action to address this situation. Thank You.

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2022-08-31

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2020-05-01
VIN: WMWXU3C56K2
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: Foul odor coming from vents when starting up AC, and after turning off for 10 - 15 minutes.

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2022-08-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-06-11
VIN: WMWXP7C56K2
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: Center console phone charger Center console is and enclosed component and when a cell phone is placed in the console and used for Bluetooth navigation and or phone calls it shuts down the system. The phone heats to such a temp that all phone operations and interaction with the vehicle system freeze or shut down and the phone continues to heat. I have spoken to the dealership and have been told it's a problem. When I communicated to MINI USA they acted as if this had never been reported. As far as warnings all car play functions slow down then freezes, and all functions stop. The phone had become so hot I was afraid it may cause a fire or explode the battery. This process usually takes an hour or so to happen.

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2022-02-15

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-02-15
VIN: WMWXP7C58K2
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: Entire Driver Side Tail Lamp assembly stopped working (includes running light, brake light, reverse light, and blinker). Dash board did display warning (while driving) of lights malfunction, but nevertheless stopped working while driving. Upon further Inspection, found a “short” / melted pig tail (electrical connector) connecting to the rear of the lamp assembly. (Both the connector and pig tail showed signs of melted plastic/fire hazard). After further investigation, I realized this is not an isolated incident as I found multiple threads/posts on the Mini Cooper (F56) Internet forums, in which multiple owners complained of the same issue (many posting pictures as I have), which dates back many years, link to forum attached. https://www.minif56.com/threads/rear-left-lights-not-working.80537/

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2020-08-17

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2020-08-15
VIN: WMWWG5C50K3
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON ROAD DRIVER'S SIDE ROLL OVER BAR JUST POPPED UP. I'M CONCERNED THAT IF CAR WOULD HAVE ROLLED OVER PASSENGER WOULD HAVE BEEN CRASHED. ALREADY NOTIFIED MIN ICOOPER WAITING FOR A RESPONSE. CAR WILL BE SERVICE THIS WEEK.

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2018-08-01

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-06-27
VIN: WMWXP5C55K2
Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Summary: THIS IS A BRAND MODEL AND BRAND NEW CAR THAT I HAD JUST PURCHASED AND WAS DRIVING HOME FROM BUYING IT- I HAD NOT EVEN OWNED FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS. WHILE ON MY WAY HOME VEHICLE MALFUNCTIONED AND HAD NEAR FATAL COLLISION. WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY - AT HIGHWAY SPEED I WAS UNABLE TO CONTROL CAR AND MAINTAIN SPEED. ENGINE SEEMINGLY LOCKED UP AND AS I WAS UNABLE TO CONTROL CAR ALMOST CAUSED A NEAR FATAL COLLISION AS CAR BEHIND ME DID NOT REALIZE I WAS LOSING SPEED. TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP AND THEY NOTED THE CRANKSHAFT SPEED PULSE GENERATOR SENSOR HAD MALFUNCTIONED.

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2018-08-01

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-07-23
VIN: WMWXP5C59K2
Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Summary: THIS IS SECOND INCIDENT THAT OCCURRED WITH BRAND NEW MINI COOPER 2019 WITH SAME EXACT ISSUE THAT AGAIN ALMOST CAUSED A NEAR FATAL ACCIDENT. WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY, AT HIGHWAY SPEED THE CAR PRECIPITOUSLY MALFUNCTIONED AND CAR LOCKED UP AND WOULD ALLOW ME TO MAINTAIN SPEED- NOR ACCELERATE. I WAS UNABLE TO MAINTAIN SPEED OF THE CAR THEREFORE STARTED TO LOSE SPEED AND DECELERATE. THE VEHICLES BEHIND ME COULD NOT TELL THAT I WAS SUDDENLY LOSING SPEED AND I WAS ALMOST INVOLVING A NEAR FATAL COLLISION AGAIN. I HAD BEEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY FOR ABOUT 5 -10 MINUTES PRIOR TO THIS PRECIPITOUSLY OCCURRING. THIS WAS THE SAME SITUATION I EXPERIENCED WITH A BRAND NEW MINI COOPER 2019 MODEL A WEEK EARLIER. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY NOTED THAT THE CRANK SHAFT SPEED PULSE GENERATOR SENSOR WAS NO GOOD AND HAD MALFUNCTIONED. AS THIS IS A REPEAT ISSUE AND VERY SERIOUS AS IT ALMOST CAUSED 2 NEAR FATAL INCIDENTS, I AM CONCERNED THAT THE MAKER OF THE VEHICLE IS NOT DOING THEIR DUE DILIGENCE TO ENSURE THAT OTHER 2019 MODELS ARE SAFE. I HAVE BEEN TOLD OTHER MINI MODELS WERE HAS EXPERIENCED SAME MALFUNCTION. THIS INCIDENT AND THE OTHER BOTH OCCURRED AT HIGHWAY SPEED WHICH CREATES A VERY DANGEROUS SET UP AFTER THE VEHICLES HAD BEEN DRIVEN FOR A FEW MILES ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN WET CONDITIONS.

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2019 Mini Cooper recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2019 Mini Cooper.

2019-08-14

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2019 BMW X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2019 X2 xDrive28i, MINI Cooper S Convertible, Countryman, and John Cooper Works Countryman vehicles. The steering gear tie rod may have been assembled incorrectly, which may result in excessive wear of the tie rod end, eventually causing it to break.
Consequence: A broken steering tie rod would lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the tie rods and ball joints as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525.

2018-07-11

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW 540d xDrive vehicles. The crankshaft sensor may be equipped with incorrect firmware, preventing the sensor from properly processing input from the crankshaft reluctor ring, possibly resulting in a vehicle stall. On September 12, 2018, BMW expanded the recall to a total of 5,309 vehicles including certain 2018-2019 BMW 540d xDrive, 230i M240i, M240i xDrive, X2 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 330i, 330i xDrive, 340i, 340i xDrive, 330i xDrive Gran Turismo, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 530e, 530e xDrive, 640i xDrive Gran Turismo, 330e, 2019 430i Gran Coupe, 430i xDrive Gran Coupe, 440i Gran Coupe, 440i xDrive Gran Coupe, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, 740i, 740i xDrive, MINI Cooper, Cooper S, JCW, MINI Countryman (Cooper, Cooper All4, Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW All4), and MINI Clubman (Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper All4, Cooper S All4, JCW All4) vehicles.
Consequence: A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the crankshaft sensor, free of charge. The recall began September 6, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2019 Mini Cooper problems:

Mini Cooper S Reliability on newer and newest models (2019-2021 ...

https://www.minif56.com/threads/mini-cooper-s-reliability-on-newer-and-newest-models-2019-2021-and-2022.90193/

May 16, 2021 ... Common issues are the top motor mount, for this a new one was released late last year ( my 10/20 build has the new one. Also front control arms ...

2019 Mini Cooper Reliability - Consumer Reports

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mini/cooper/2019/reliability/

Noises And Leaks. Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

Honest Opinions on Mini + Reliability : r/MINI

https://www.reddit.com/r/MINI/comments/oo3nj7/honest_opinions_on_mini_reliability/

Jul 20, 2021 ... A lot of the reliability issues were eliminated with the newer generation mini's ... I also own a 2019 that hasn't been into the ... r/MINI - My ...