2002 MINI Cooper
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2002 MINI Cooper. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
5 recalls name the 2002 MINI Cooper. Newest first.
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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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."
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
Certain passenger vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 110, 'tire selection and rims.' the standard requires that the relationship between the tire size and maximum tire pressure be indicated on the vehicle's tire information label. this relationship IS not present.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Too low or too high tire pressure can cause premature wear and/or tire damage, and could lead to unfavorable driving conditions.
Remedy
Owners will be provided with new tire information placards and installation instructions. at the customer's option, a dealer can perform the installation for them. the recall began on november 30, 2005. owners may contact MINI at 1-866-275-6464.
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with manual transmissions, the transmission shift cable connects the gearshift lever in the vehicle interior to the shift linkage on the transmission. it IS possible for the shift cable to detach from the transmission shift linkage while the driver IS attempting to change gears. if the cable detaches from the shift…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If shift cable detachment occurs and the transmission remains in any forward gear, the vehicle can still be driven in that gear only. however, if the transmission moves into neutral and remains there, the ability to accelerate or maintain speed will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the shift cable and, if necessary, install a retaining clip over the end of the shift cable to prevent it from detaching from the transmission. owner notification began august 6, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact BMW at 1-866-ask-mini (1-866-275-6464).
Owner complaints
187 complaints4 involved a crash8 involved a fire8 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
Driverside headlight assembly flickers everytime when you turn the key to position 1 with selector on off or auto. Flickers multiple times but doesn'tturn on unless I cycle the key on off until headlight does. This annoyance would reoccur the very next morning. Passenger headlight assembly doesn't have any issues.
- Air bags · Electrical system · Seats
I purchased the vehicle used with airbag light showing on the speedometer gauge cluster. Searched with vin for recalls but showed 0 unrepaired recalls. Tried clearing the light with my Launch CREADER BMW V2 scan tool. Light flashes a few times and goes away but immediately appears on the…
I purchased the vehicle used with airbag light showing on the speedometer gauge cluster. Searched with vin for recalls but showed 0 unrepaired recalls. Tried clearing the light with my Launch CREADER BMW V2 scan tool. Light flashes a few times and goes away but immediately appears on the speedometer gauge cluster. This would happen everytime. Wires are intact with no signs of damages to all 3 wire connectors under the seat.
- Air bags
Unoccupied passenger side airbags; all front & backseat bags deployed after passenger side tires hit pothole on road. Pieces of interior, including decorative plastic, interior light covers were projected across cabin & hit me. I had no idea what had happened. Car shut off shortly after incident.…
Unoccupied passenger side airbags; all front & backseat bags deployed after passenger side tires hit pothole on road. Pieces of interior, including decorative plastic, interior light covers were projected across cabin & hit me. I had no idea what had happened. Car shut off shortly after incident. It was night, I was sitting in middle of my lane, unable to start Mini. Good samaritans helped push it into parking lot while waiting for assistance. After 15 minutes, car started and was driven home. I had slight injuries from being hit by hard material projectiled across cabin. Very thankful I was the only occupant because if a passenger had been in the seat, they would have most definitely sustained injuries. I had to cut the airbags out in order to have clear lines of sight before driving the following day. I’m fearful that the drivers side air bags may do this as well. I have owned this vehicle since 2004. Not aware of history prior to 2004;(accidents, original airbags?). only know it came from a Dealer in CA. (Possibly “Friendship” may be name of town or dealership). I have not had repairs made yet. I don’t drive this vehicle daily. There are no police reports since there was no need. No insurance claims since 2002 model. There were no malfunctions with the warning light prior to incident. However, the following day when I drove, the airbag indicator light came on for passenger side. I did not find a recall but not sure if I would for a 22 year old vehicle.
- Unknown or other
My MINI cooper needs recall work done. I am in billings, mt and 392 miles from the closest certified place to get it repaired. I can't travel that far in a 2002 vehicle with high miles during a pandemic. I am a senior citizen and have issues that do not allow me to travel that far. I am stuck with…
My MINI cooper needs recall work done. I am in billings, mt and 392 miles from the closest certified place to get it repaired. I can't travel that far in a 2002 vehicle with high miles during a pandemic. I am a senior citizen and have issues that do not allow me to travel that far. I am stuck with a vehicle that may have a potential steering issue with no way to resolve it. I now can't sell this vehicle either because it would be morally wrong to pass this problem on to a new owner. I can't afford this kind of safety and financial problem. I need help to get this work done and MINI cooper called me after my inquiry and said I am basically out of luck. They have no resolution for me or any other MINI cooper owners that live in rural states and are not near a certified dealership. I need this repaired and am hoping you can help me and all the other MINI cooper owners in this dangerous situation. The number the MINI representative called me from was 800-831-1117.
- Steering
So I bought a 2002 MINI cooper less than a year ago and it currently has 74K miles and attempting to pull into a parking spot at the grocery my steering goes completely out while I was trying to turn into my spot and ripped off a black molding that goes over the front passenger wheel and a significant ding and scratch.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. While driving approximately 50 mph, the steering wheel seized and the power steering warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was able to coast to the side of the road. The contact powered off and restarted the vehicle, and was able to drive normally. The…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. While driving approximately 50 mph, the steering wheel seized and the power steering warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was able to coast to the side of the road. The contact powered off and restarted the vehicle, and was able to drive normally. The contact, a certified mechanic, diagnosed that the steering pump failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and did not offer assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.
- Structure › Body
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. The contact stated that water was entering the vehicle from the sun roof, which caused the computer in the vehicle to get moist and not operate. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the sun roof rubber connector needed to be…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. The contact stated that water was entering the vehicle from the sun roof, which caused the computer in the vehicle to get moist and not operate. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the sun roof rubber connector needed to be repaired. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 118,000.
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. While driving 15 mph out of a parking lot, the vehicle made a left turn and the gear shifter failed. In addition, the gear shifter cable detached. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The failure recurred twice. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. While driving 15 mph out of a parking lot, the vehicle made a left turn and the gear shifter failed. In addition, the gear shifter cable detached. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The failure recurred twice. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 02v201000 (power train). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Wheels
The dash low tire air light suddenly came on; it comes on after driving for about 5 minuets. I've checked all tires and they are in compliance. I see that on-line blogs this IS a major issue
- Service brakes
ABS dash light and break light suddenly came on. In addition to the air bag light that suddenly came on, the dealer said the computer module for the ABS will cost $1,000 (in addition to the airbag module of $1.000). I see on internet blogs and nhtsa that this IS a common incident total air bag and ABS cost will be $2,000
- Air bags
At 140,000 mile: + air bag light came on. dealer said that the airbag computer module will cost $1,000 to replace. I see on-line blogs and nhtsa have had numerous complaints on the air bag dash light coming on and nhtsa IS still investigating.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the power steering would suddenly malfunction causing the steering wheel to become very difficult to turn. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the power steering pump had over heated…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the power steering would suddenly malfunction causing the steering wheel to become very difficult to turn. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the power steering pump had over heated causing the power steering fluid to evaporate. The contact indicated that since 2012 the power steering pump had been replaced five separate times and recently with the new redesign pump but the vehicle continued to have the same failure occur. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 30,000.
- Engine · Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. While driving various speeds, the engine stalled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The electronic learning module and the pyramid warning light illuminated. The contact stated that several components were replaced due to…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. While driving various speeds, the engine stalled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The electronic learning module and the pyramid warning light illuminated. The contact stated that several components were replaced due to manufacturer defects. The gear lever, transmission, brake pedal, motor, clutch, front and rear axles, and the accelerator pedal position sensor were all replaced. The failure mileage was 118,457.
- Air bags
The vehicle was purchased used in 2011, soon there after the air bag light came on, it was taken to a local repair shop and the air bag light was reset, I was advised by the shop owner that this IS a common problem in the older MINI. he also advised that it IS extremely expensive, as MINI USA…
The vehicle was purchased used in 2011, soon there after the air bag light came on, it was taken to a local repair shop and the air bag light was reset, I was advised by the shop owner that this IS a common problem in the older MINI. he also advised that it IS extremely expensive, as MINI USA basically throws all new parts at it at the owners expense without really getting to the bottom of the problem. the air bag light illuminated again in july of 2015, right after I had returned from vacation, apparently the parking valet had slid the seat back and most likely stretched the air bag seat harness. this IS a proven defect which MINI USA has finally addressed with a recall of 2005 to 2008 models only. it IS related to a faulty seat harness that cannot detect whether a passenger IS in the right seat. It IS also been shown that in most cases the airbags will not deploy in an accident.
- Steering
Driving car normally when power steering went out causing a great deal of loss of vehicle control, making turning very difficult. Ended up swerving into other lane, fortunately no cars were in the lane at the time. Had to re-start vehicle to gain steering back. Has happened numerous times since…
Driving car normally when power steering went out causing a great deal of loss of vehicle control, making turning very difficult. Ended up swerving into other lane, fortunately no cars were in the lane at the time. Had to re-start vehicle to gain steering back. Has happened numerous times since this date. MINI USA keep dodging the issue for a full on recall, instead extending the warranty, but my vehicle missed the warranty by 3 months so they will not replace without a hefty amount of money involved.
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. The contact stated that the transmission failed on the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for service and stated that the transmission was failing. The vehicle was not repaired. While driving home, the transmission seized. The vehicle was then…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. The contact stated that the transmission failed on the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for service and stated that the transmission was failing. The vehicle was not repaired. While driving home, the transmission seized. The vehicle was then towed back to the dealer, who determined that the drive shift cable failed. The contact was informed of nhtsa campaign number: 02v201000 (power train). However, the vin was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 136,000.
- Steering
Power steering pump IS very loud when turning the vehicle. Can be very hard to turn wheel at times and sometimes the power steering has cut out while driving. MINI has a recall but wont fix for me. *js
- Air bags
Ever since buying this car used in january of 2012, the srs warning light has been on. the car store we bought the vehicle from did cancel the code when we discovered it was on after purchase. however, the code came back. we brought it to be fixed, and I believe someone eliminated the coupler…
Ever since buying this car used in january of 2012, the srs warning light has been on. the car store we bought the vehicle from did cancel the code when we discovered it was on after purchase. however, the code came back. we brought it to be fixed, and I believe someone eliminated the coupler under the passenger seat, wiring the seat to the ecu directly, by crimping wires together. still, the light came back on. it has been on constantly for over a year now. I have soldered the wires under the passenger seat together, as one connection seemed broken, hoping this would eliminate the light. I bought a code reader to reset the light, but the codes only temporarily disappear and after blinking a few times the light IS back on. I do not know, nor do I have confidence in knowing, whether or not the air bag would deploy in case of an accident. I hope never to find out, of course. but I do know that the air bag light being on IS a consistent and persistent problem with MINI coopers built from 2002 - 2006. and I know that there has been no recall, nor an extended warranty that would cover work that apparently will cost around $2,000 at a dealer repair shop. with the recent recall of air bags made by japanese air bag maker takata, including thousands of bmws made in a similar time frame as the air bags in my MINI cooper, I am also wondering if the MINI air bags are made by takata, and sensibly worry about their safety should the in fact deploy as designed. BMW has recalled some of their own cars for air bag light issues, involving seat sensors, but not on the MINI, even though both cars use identical components. it IS time for BMW to take ownership of a serious problem the air bag systems in their early MINI coopers. I would hope that you can force the issue, as this certainly IS a safety issue which exists/persists on thousands of vehicles sold in the us. *tr
- Power train
While driving my MINI cooper on a major road in heavy traffic my MINI cooper experienced a complete loss of power to the wheels (sudden transmission failure). My only option to avoid being rear-ended was to steer the car off the road ( with the remaining forward momentum into a fast food parking…
While driving my MINI cooper on a major road in heavy traffic my MINI cooper experienced a complete loss of power to the wheels (sudden transmission failure). My only option to avoid being rear-ended was to steer the car off the road ( with the remaining forward momentum into a fast food parking lot in order to avoid being involved in an accident. description of failed component/affected part: MINI cooper's cvt transmission have a known history of sudden failure at 80k-120k. BMW the manufacturer of the MINI has known about the defective transmission in their vehicle for years, and has never informed owners of their vehicles of the transmission problem or the potential risk for accidents, injury, or death that could result from the sudden failure of the mini's transmission and resulting total loss of power. BMW has never issued a recall or offer to replace the defective transmission under the vehicle warranty. Additionally, BMW has issued service advisories to their service managers about the problems associated with their MINI cooper's cvt transmission, but as mentioned has not communicated this problem to MINI owners. *tr
- Power train
2002 MINI cooper, manual transmission. low mileage, only 22,000 miles on it. while driving IS city traffic, the transmission failed to engage when I shifted into 1ST and lifted the clutch trying to start from a red light. there was a small "sputter" and then the car could not be driven. I was…
2002 MINI cooper, manual transmission. low mileage, only 22,000 miles on it. while driving IS city traffic, the transmission failed to engage when I shifted into 1ST and lifted the clutch trying to start from a red light. there was a small "sputter" and then the car could not be driven. I was able to push it to the side of the road and thought that the clutch was out. the repair shop found out that the entire manual transmission had disintegrated. it had torn itself apart over the years. the repair shop said that he was aware that this IS a common flaw with the early MINI coopers. this was a $2500 repair. *tr
- Steering
While driving east on sheridan dr. In the town of tonawanda, I experienced a complete failure of the power steering. I wrestled with the car for the rest of the day, and when I got home, I heard that the power steering cooling fan was running continuously, even though the car was shut off in the…
While driving east on sheridan dr. In the town of tonawanda, I experienced a complete failure of the power steering. I wrestled with the car for the rest of the day, and when I got home, I heard that the power steering cooling fan was running continuously, even though the car was shut off in the driveway. I assumed it would stop eventually, but was wrong and returned to a totally dead battery. I called the dealer, towne MINI in williamsville, ny, and was told they were booked to june 17TH, but that I could bring it in. midway between my home and towne, while on the 290, my power steering returned. when I got to towne, they as much as called me a liar, and refused to replace the pump and fan. They did however, find $1300 worth of other work that "needed" to be done to pass nys inspection. *tr
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2002 MINI cooper. The contact stated that while driving 5 mph, the power steering assist failed and caused the vehicle to become difficult to operate. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not notified about the failure. The failure and current mileage was 107,000.
- Steering
I have 2002 MINI cooper original owner and I had windsheld, transmission replaced. Main issue I still have IS streering loose power. I got a letter from MINI said it extended warranty not a recall. MINI co. Never recall any issues. Call dealer for this streering problem but my 2002 MINI IS not…
I have 2002 MINI cooper original owner and I had windsheld, transmission replaced. Main issue I still have IS streering loose power. I got a letter from MINI said it extended warranty not a recall. MINI co. Never recall any issues. Call dealer for this streering problem but my 2002 MINI IS not under this campaign. I have that streering loose power middle of driving but this IS not even recall? I have to pay for diagnose fee for extension warranty per dealer. Mini/bmw will not recall this issue until drivers get seriously hurt. *tr
- Air bags · Seats · Structure › Body
I was exiting from 35TH street in newport news, va onto the warwick blvd off ramp in traffic, coasting with the brakes at about 5 mph, when I was rear ended by a navy operated flat nose school bus, which forced my vehicle into a late model chevy trailblazer. My air bags (front and side) did not…
I was exiting from 35TH street in newport news, va onto the warwick blvd off ramp in traffic, coasting with the brakes at about 5 mph, when I was rear ended by a navy operated flat nose school bus, which forced my vehicle into a late model chevy trailblazer. My air bags (front and side) did not deploy, and when I came to rest my seat back had reclined against my child's car seat (child was not in vehicle). The right rear unibody was creased due to the impact from the bus. I suffered neck, back, and spine trauma. The driver of the trailblazer complained of neck pain at the scene. Local newport news fire and rescue units arrived on scene, as well as a virginia state trooper. The trooper handled the accident. *tr
- Steering
The power steering pump failed in my 2002 MINI cooper for the second time. first time it happened was in 2011 and I got a new pump and had it professionally installed. today, 08/26/2013 my second power steering pump failed. this IS a known issue with this vehicle and there has not been a recall. I do not have the time or the money to keep replacing a part that should have been recalled years ago. *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Loss of power steering assist
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) originally opened the investigation of loss of power steering assist in model year (MY) 2004 and 2005 Mini Cooper as Preliminary Evaluation PE10-038.The investigation was upgraded to Engineering Analysis EA11-005 in May, 2011.During EA11-005 the scope was expanded to include…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) originally opened the investigation of loss of power steering assist in model year (MY) 2004 and 2005 Mini Cooper as Preliminary Evaluation PE10-038.The investigation was upgraded to Engineering Analysis EA11-005 in May, 2011.During EA11-005 the scope was expanded to include MY 2002 and 2003 vehicles that use the same steering system.The subject vehicles now include MY 2002, the first year BMW sold MINI in the U.S., through mid-MY 2005 covering approximately 109,000 vehicles.The subject vehicles use an electrically driven pump to provide hydraulic pressure to a conventional rack-and-pinion steering gear.A pump, the electric motor, and an electronic control unit (ECU) are housed in a single component BMW calls a Power Pack.The investigation focused on contaminant-induced failure of the ECU resulting in a loss of assist without warning.When assist is lost mechanical steering is retained however increased steering effort is required to keep the vehicle on an intended path.Some consumers reported that restarting the vehicle (cycling the ignition switch) would often reinstate the steering assist.Additionally, and by design, assist can also reinstate during the drive cycle in limited circumstances.The unexpected loss of assist, and/or possibly the reinstatement of assist while driving, may contribute to a loss of vehicle control in certain driving situations.During MY 2005 production BMW introduced a revised Power Pack design (the ECU incorporated a conformal coating of the circuit board) which resulted in a significant reduction in failures.ODI identified 20 reports describing crashes consistent with a loss of power assist event possibly caused by a failure of the Power Pack.Two reports alleged an injury however both were minor in nature and did not require emergency treatment (a subsequent doctor's visit occurred in one case).Ten of these reports described low speed crashes with minimal, or in most cases no property or vehicle damage (e.g., striking a movable barrier in a parking lot).Additionally 27 other reports alleged or indicated that a crash occurred due to a Power Pack failure however in reviewing these reports, ODI either 1) was unable to confirm that a crash actually occurred (8 reports), or 2) determined that the crash circumstances (e.g., adverse road/weather conditions) or cause (e.g., the crash was caused by steering linkage failure) were not attributable to a Power Pack failure (19 reports).Throughout the investigation BMW maintained that loss of assist in the subject vehicles did not constitute a safety related defect, noting that the subject vehicles are smaller, light weight vehicles that can be reasonably controlled when assist is lost.In May 2013 BMW launched a 13 year/150,000 mile extended warranty coverage utilizing the redesigned Power Pack as a replacement part.ODI continued its investigation.In July 2014 BMW provided ODI a status of the ongoing extended warranty program, and in May 2015 ODI requested an update of complaint data.Following a review of the provided data, ODI informed BMW of its assessment that loss of steering assist failures were not adequately resolved by an extended warranty program.On October 12, 2015 BMW notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall (15V-660) on approximately 86,000 subject vehicles not previously remedied with the new design Power Pack through regular or extended warranty programs.The recall covers MY 2002-2005 MINI Cooper, MY 2002-2005 MINI Cooper S, and MY 2005 MINI Cooper/Cooper S convertibles manufactured through Feb 9, 2005.Vehicles produced after this date are not included si
- Engine compartment fire
The office of defects investigation (odi) analyzed consumer complaints to BMW of north america, llc (bmw)and to odi that alleged failures of the electrohydraulic power steering (ehps) used in model year 2002 through 2003 MINI cooper vehicles.the analysis determined that 43 of the 52 (83%) reports were related to…
The office of defects investigation (odi) analyzed consumer complaints to BMW of north america, llc (bmw)and to odi that alleged failures of the electrohydraulic power steering (ehps) used in model year 2002 through 2003 MINI cooper vehicles.the analysis determined that 43 of the 52 (83%) reports were related to allegations of power steering loss and 9 (17%) were related to allegations of engine compartment fires. Although some of the reports alleging fires note small flames were visible in the engine compartment, analysis of the damage caused by these failures indicates that even the most severe incidents were limited to localized thermal damage to the ehps electrical connections and wiring insulation.none of the complaints alleging loss of power assisted steering indicated that the increased effort resulted in a crash or loss of vehicle control. A safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted. Accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist. The agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by circumstances.see document file for additional information regarding this resume.
- Engine compartment fire
In response to an information request (ir) letter sent by the office of defects investigation (odi), BMW stated that the cause of the alleged defect IS an insufficient seal of the ground cable of the power steering pump at its attachment to the chassis.water ingress can occur and the water can travel along the power…
In response to an information request (ir) letter sent by the office of defects investigation (odi), BMW stated that the cause of the alleged defect IS an insufficient seal of the ground cable of the power steering pump at its attachment to the chassis.water ingress can occur and the water can travel along the power steering pump power cable and come in contact with the power steering pump power cable connector.the connector can then corrode and a high thermal load condition can occur.according to BMW, this ultimately could result in a localized smoldering condition that does not propagate. To correct the water ingress issue, BMW implemented changes to the wire routing, the power steeringpump connector and the ground eyelet connection between february and july of 2002. In a review of warranty claim data sent by BMW, 67 percent of the vehicles noted in warranty claims had production dates after august 1, 2002. Additionally, odi noted eight reports of consumers witnessing flames coming from the engine compartment.this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea07-011) to further assess the scope, frequency andpotential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect.
- Air bag warning lamp illumination
In march 2006, BMW reissued a service bulletin first issued in september 2003, to MINI dealers regarding the repair procedure for improper wire crimps in approximately 31,500 model year 2002 and 2003 MINI cooper vehicles produced up to january 2003.the new service bulletin states that the warranty coverage for the…
In march 2006, BMW reissued a service bulletin first issued in september 2003, to MINI dealers regarding the repair procedure for improper wire crimps in approximately 31,500 model year 2002 and 2003 MINI cooper vehicles produced up to january 2003.the new service bulletin states that the warranty coverage for the issue (i.e., air bag warning lamp illumination with fault code for high resistance in side air bag/seat belt pretensioner circuit) IS extended to 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever occurs first.bmw plans to send letters to owners during march 2006.the subject wire crimps are located under the front seats and are part of the main wiring harness that interface with the under-seat wiring harness connectors for side air bag and seat belt pretensioner modules.bmw stated that, although the subject crimps were improperly manufactured, the crimp connection IS still sufficient for the restraint system to deploy when needed.according to BMW, the electrical resistance levels in the subject vehicles can exceed the threshold that illuminates the air bag warning lamp, but they do not exceed a much higher limit in which deployment of the restraints may no longer occur.odi believes that there IS lack of evidence at this time to conclude that the restraint systems may not deploy with the high resistance condition.the agency believes that further expenditure of agency resources does not appear to be warranted at this time.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.the agency will monitor the issue and reserves the right to take future action if warranted by the circumstances.
- Air bag warning lamp illumination
Odi has granted the petition and has opened a preliminary evaluation (pe05-053) on illumination of air bag warning lamp on model year 2002 and 2003 MINI cooper vehicles.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10250378The bar code on the vehicle identificatio nnumber (VIN) label (aka Manufacturer Compliance Label ) cannot be read.
- 10245428Cavity protection applied to underside of the hood is leaking out onto the wheel arch trim and grille.
- 10151228This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI 32 02 14 dated August 2014. SUBJECT Installation of Right-Hand Drive Steering Spindle in Left-Hand Drive Vehicle is No Longer Required. Left-hand drive steering spindles are currently available.
- 10150304State Inspection and Emission (I/M) Test Fails to Read 17-Character VIN. An affected vehicle may fail to pass a state-mandated Inspection and/or Emission (I/M) test due to a noncompliant 17-character vehicle identification number (VIN) being read out and displayed on the state's required tester report printout. In accordance with the OBD regulation, all MY 2005 and newer vehicles are required to support the display of their compliant 17-character VINs. These vehicles were produced to be in compliance with this regulation. If the DME was reprogrammed using the previously available BMW service equipment (e.g., Progman, GT1), it was possible that only the last 7 of the VIN were entered into the DME, and positions 4 through 10 may only contain default characters. For example: The state I/M tester or OBD scan tool may read out WBAAA00000A123456 instead of the correct full 17-digit VIN, WBAZZ03492A123456.
- 10150204State Inspection and Emission (I/M) Test Fails Due to an Invalid VIN Number. The affected vehicle may fail to pass a State Inspection and Emission (I/M) test due to a noncompliant 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) stored in the DME (Digital Motor Electronic). The VIN read-out displayed on the state test printout does not match the actual VIN of the vehicle. If the DME was reprogrammed using the previously available BMW service equipment (e.g., Progman, GT1), it was possible that only the last 7 of the VIN were entered into the DME, and positions 4 through 10 may only contain default characters. For example: The state I/M tester or OBD scan tool may read out WBAAA00000A123456 instead of the correct full 17-digit VIN, WBAZZ03492A123456.
- 10150086Electro-Hydraulic Power-Assist Steering Pump (EHPS) and Cooling Fan: Warranty Extension to 13 years/150,000 miles. On affected vehicles, the electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) pump can fail.
- 10150044Electro-Hydraulic Power-Assist Steering Pump (EHPS) and Cooling Fan: Warranty Extension to 13 years/150,000 miles. On affected vehicles, the electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) pump can fail.
- 10149392MINI CVT Replacement Parts Warranty Extension: Additional 12 Months with Up to 50,000 Accumulated Miles. A MINI vehicle's CVT assembly or component that was previously repaired and/or replaced by an authorized MINI dealer or BMW center may experience a subsequent failure.
- 10148439Electro-Hydraulic Power-Assist Steering Pump (EHPS) and Cooling Fan: Limited Warranty Extension to 13 Years/150,000 Miles. On affected vehicles, the electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) pump can fail.
- 10148394Installation of Right-Hand Drive Steering Spindle in Left-Hand Drive Vehicle. Supply shortage of left-hand drive steering spindles
- 10148241MINI CVT Replacement Parts Warranty Extension: Additional 12 Months with Up to 50,000 Accumulated Miles. A MINI vehicle's CVT assembly or component that was previously repaired and/or replaced by an authorized MINI dealer or BMW center may experience a subsequent failure.
- 10143574W10 ENGINE: EMS2K - COMPREHENSIVE COMPONENT OBD READINESS MONITOR NOT COMPLETED: An affected vehicle fails to pass a state Inspection and Emission (I/M) test due to the Comprehensive Component OBD readiness monitor status is not complete, or it fails complete after performing an applicable repair.
- 10059114MINI: faulty software for the tank ventilation control displays engine throttle reaction when temperature IS high outside, and more obvious if the tank IS only partly filled.
- 10059113MINI: faulty software causes the check control and engine power reduced light to appear.
- 10059112MINI: because of the dme software, and a damaged clutch, the drivetrain malfunction check message appear.
- 10059111MINI: due to faulty dme software, the service engine lights comes on, including the check control message for motor force decrease.
- 10059098MINI: different faults activates engine malfunction and oil warning.
- 10059094MINI: a mechanical failure and dme software error of the vanos actuators cause the engine to run rough which activates the malfunction warning light.
- 10057710MINI: models R50, R52, and R53 with the electro-hydraulic power-assist steering pump and cooling fans will have an limited warranty extension to 13 years/150,000 miles.
- 10057570MINI: some vehicles have turbocharger noise and a lack or loss of performance, due to restriction of turbocharger oil supply, resulting in oil starvation and seizing of turbocharger assembly. Model all.
- 10056114MINI: there IS a disconnection or kink, in wnidshield washer hose, which IS too short, causing windshield front washer jet to fail. Model F56 (cooper, cooper s).
- 10056111MINI: information on parts warranty extension applying to previous qualifying repairs and no immediate repair required unless currently experiencing problem with cvt assembly or component. Model 2005-2008 cooper, cooper s.
- 10055137MINI: warranty coverage extension/repair expense reimbursement for the electro hydraulic power (assist) steering (ehps) pump, which has its own cooling fan, on some vehicles and not the electric power (assist) steering (eps) system on other minis. Models 2002-2005 cooper, cooper s, convertible, convertible s.
- 10053604MINI: there IS a procedural error in the removing and installing or replacing high pressure pump current version that has been replaced with the corrected repair instruction portion for the N14 and N18 engine. Models R55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61. No model years listed.
- 10052614MINI: see document search button for owner letter. A warranty extension for certain vehicles with potential problem with cooling fan and the durability of electro hydraulic power (assist) steering (ehps) pump. Models 2002-2005 R50, R52, R3. Updated on 11/1/2013. Updated 3/4/2014
- 10043725MINI: after drive-away locking activates, it IS not possible to unlock the boot.
- 10040855BMW: a software error IS causing a hesitation or jerking when accelerating under higher loads between 3000 4000 rpm.
- 10037305BMW: description and specifications of crankcase ventilation system.
- 10032985MINI: electric cooling fan runs after engine IS shut off. After the engine IS shut off, the electric cooling fan continues to run. Due to the operating strategy of the dme, the electric cooling fan may continue to run after the engine IS shut off in two different scenarios. Engine coolant temp reaches 108 degrees celsius (due to heat soak), cooling fan will activate til coolant temp drops below 105 degrees celsius. Fan will run to assist the auxiliary water pump, which IS used to cool turbo charger after engine shut down. No model years listed.
- 10032984MINI: water leak from the front doors. After heavy rain, the carpet may be wet in the area near the rear of the front doors or in the footwell area. Water which IS allowed to enter the vehicle at the top rear edge of the door IS not able to drain out through the bottom of the door seal. As a result, the water travels along the door seal and into the passenger compartment.
- 10030668MINI: due to a failure in the production process,the catalytic converter may deteriorate causing an increased level of vehicle emissions. The catalyst efficiency fault code (276A) will be stored in the dme memory, and the service engine soon lamp will be illuminated. Vehicle drivability IS not affected by this type of the catalyst failure. (R55, R56).
- 10028785MINI: service engine soon or check gas cap warning IS illuminated: tank leakage. Leakage IS detected in the tank ventilation or evaporative system.
- 10026789MINI: check svs function. On certain vehicles, the voice input system (svs sa 620) does not function. The svs was not installed in the vehicles.
- 10025903MINI- R5 & R56 (cooper; cooper s) with getrag 6 speed manual transmission: complaint of an intermittent no-crank, no start situation. The clutch switch module has not been secured in the correct position on the clutch master cylinder.
- 10025846MINI: R55, R56 (cooper, cooper s) with F21 asin 6-speed automatic transmission - incorrect gear display.
- 10025844MINI: driver footwell area becomes hot. The hearter core pipes are poorly insulated. Model R56.
- 10019988Nitrogen inflated tires.
- 10009756Voluntary emissions recall campaign 04e-a03 - replace crankcase breather line. The crankcase ventilation breather hose may soften and eventually may collapse after extended time in service. A hissing or humming noise may be noticed during light acceleration. The service engine soon light may be illuminated and various drivability problems (rough idle, stalling) may be experienced.
- 10009755Voluntary emissions recall campaign 04e-a01 - reprogram dme for tank leakage diagnostics. Tank leakage diagnostics does not run correctly due to an error in the dme software. As a result, the check engine soon light will not be illuminated in case of leakage in the evaporative system.
- 10002311Engine speed fluctuation while coasting down cooper with manual transmission produced up to 07/02.
Every MINI Cooper model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.