2003 MINI Cooper
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › MINI › Cooper › 2003
These records cover every 2003 MINI Cooper. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 2003 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.
On certain vehicles, the lower screw connection of the rear struts to the chassis may fail. the head (top) of the screw securing this connection may break. the remaining portion of the screw will still hold the strut in place.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If left unattended over a period of time, and depending on driving conditions, the remaining portion of the screw may break. if it broke, the chassis would lean directly on the tire diminishing the driver's ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the lower screw connection of the rear struts. owner notification began april 7, 2003. 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 1-800-831-1117.
Owner complaints
320 complaints3 involved a crash27 involved a fire3 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Steering
The contact owns a 2003 Mini Cooper. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the steering wheel was difficult to turn in either direction. The contact stated that the steering wheel malfunctioned, making the steering wheel easy to turn, causing severe oversteer while making a turn in…
The contact owns a 2003 Mini Cooper. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the steering wheel was difficult to turn in either direction. The contact stated that the steering wheel malfunctioned, making the steering wheel easy to turn, causing severe oversteer while making a turn in either direction. The contact stated that the failure was due to a faulty power steering pump, and installed as part of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V660000 (STEERING). The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that after turning off the vehicle, the power steering pump remained running, causing the battery to drain. The cause of the failure was not yet determined, and the vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 230,000.
- Steering
68k miles on a 2003 mini cooper s and the power steering pump is whining. I feel as if this may be really early for it to be needing to be replaced.
- Steering
The contact owns a 2003 Mini Cooper. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V660000 (Steering); 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…
The contact owns a 2003 Mini Cooper. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V660000 (Steering); 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 contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel was firm, and the vehicle was difficult to maneuver. No warning lights were illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure but failed to confirm if the parts were available for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to call the service center directly. The failure mileage was unavailable. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Electrical system · Steering · Visibility/wiper
No air or blower or heat to defog windshield. Water in driver-side foot well. Power steering intermittent fault. Engine continues running and panel gauge lights remain on with ignition off and key removed.
- Electrical system · Seats · Service brakes
i Purchased the car in Dover Pa . INspection sticker had same milage as on car so i shoulda knew he slapped a sticker on . drove 150 miles dash lit ip like chrismas tree. 1st thing left window wont work , then left lock wont work had to lock from passenfger dide. then door wont open at all . have…
i Purchased the car in Dover Pa . INspection sticker had same milage as on car so i shoulda knew he slapped a sticker on . drove 150 miles dash lit ip like chrismas tree. 1st thing left window wont work , then left lock wont work had to lock from passenfger dide. then door wont open at all . have to get ou t passenger door . know that wont open have to put down passenger window pull handel to get out . car is possessed light work whren they want does all kinda crazt stuff . batter has problems . charge and still cant start it . and hatch locks so i cant get to battery. power steering leaking going bad . timing belt making noise . no power on hills .cracking noise in right front pulls to right had . hazard to me ive been locked inside three times could get out of car i coulda sat in heat and died or cold and froze . cant get out of car when it ts electric doors dont work . car sucks . this has been gradual thing these events from feb to may . now i just hate the car
- Steering
My 2003 Mini Cooper was affected by the 2015 electrohydraulic steering assistance recall. Mini did the repair at 79, 322 miles in 2016. In November 2021, at 98, 000 miles, the car began having intermittent power steering loss. The power steering might disappear for under a minute, or it might…
My 2003 Mini Cooper was affected by the 2015 electrohydraulic steering assistance recall. Mini did the repair at 79, 322 miles in 2016. In November 2021, at 98, 000 miles, the car began having intermittent power steering loss. The power steering might disappear for under a minute, or it might return for mere seconds. There is no warning when the power steering goes out, so you have to assume that it is not going to respond with the electrohydraulic steering assistance feature operating. As of today, it has been completely offline for 3 days (although it did come back on for about 5 seconds yesterday). Without this feature operating properly, the car can be extremely difficult to steer.
- Tires › Tread/belt
While driving on I-81 to NY state, I experienced serious tire vibration followed by tire loss of air. All tires were checked for proper tire inflation before trip. After pulling off to the side of the road, I witnessed a large hole with metal fiber sticking through the tire tread. I believe the tread separation was the cause.
- Tires › Tread/belt
While driving on I-81 to NY state, I experienced serious tire vibration followed by tire loss of air. All tires were checked for proper tire inflation before trip. The service center in which I ended up in said that the tire belts had separated and caused the rapid tire deflation.
- Steering
The contact owns a 2003 Mini Cooper. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph and making a right turn, the power steering malfunctioned and the steering wheel suddenly became difficult to turn in either direction. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the…
The contact owns a 2003 Mini Cooper. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph and making a right turn, the power steering malfunctioned and the steering wheel suddenly became difficult to turn in either direction. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the power steering pump and fan needed to be replaced and the intake and return power steering lines also were faulty and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in the NHTSA campaign number: 15V660000 (Steering). The contact indicated that the vehicle had experienced the same failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 134,000.
- Steering
In motion.. The power steering wheel feels to hard to turn operate;i check the vin# number and appear (1) recall for power steering incomplete;we call at BMW of dallas and they setup an apoinment on january,15,2020...when I show up...they say my car don't have any recall;and I show im the official…
In motion.. The power steering wheel feels to hard to turn operate;i check the vin# number and appear (1) recall for power steering incomplete;we call at BMW of dallas and they setup an apoinment on january,15,2020...when I show up...they say my car don't have any recall;and I show im the official recall with my vin#...bmw recall & nhtsa recall and they say the car warranty IS expired,i said I just need fix the recall on my car and they wanna charge me $180 dlls just to get the vehicle inspected,if the car got something wrong they charge me the cost...i dont accept...my car got the recall and they make me drive 120 miles whit the car for nothing
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. While driving 30 mph, the power steering completely failed without warning. The contact was able to regain control of the vehicle; however, the steering was rough and stiff. The contact performed his own inspection on the vehicle and noticed that the power…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. While driving 30 mph, the power steering completely failed without warning. The contact was able to regain control of the vehicle; however, the steering was rough and stiff. The contact performed his own inspection on the vehicle and noticed that the power steering pump was leaking. The contact spoke with an independent mechanic and was informed that the vehicle may be included in an unknown recall. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and stated that the vehicle was included in nhtsa campaign number: 15v660000 (steering). The contact took the vehicle to MINI of the woodlands (16675 I-45, conroe, tx 77385, 936-344-1258) and was informed that the vehicle could not be repaired because the steering pump was not the original MINI cooper steering pump. The dealer offered no further assistance. The pump had not been replaced. The failure mileage was 83,000.
- Steering
Bought this car for 16 yr old daughter. Steering was cutting out while driving took car to MINI of dallas recall was done on harness, pump, cooling fan. Next week no steering again while driving took car back. MINI stated drive belt broke and was repaired for 260.00. 3 days later was called at a…
Bought this car for 16 yr old daughter. Steering was cutting out while driving took car to MINI of dallas recall was done on harness, pump, cooling fan. Next week no steering again while driving took car back. MINI stated drive belt broke and was repaired for 260.00. 3 days later was called at a 11:30 at night my daughter stating the steering had cut out again. I don't want my daughter in this car or anyone else for that matter what should I do with this car.
- Air bags
The warning for th epassenger airbag comes on, though apparently nothing IS wromg with it. It seems to be a commmon problem that MINI IS aware off, puts people in danger, but doesnt do anything to fix the harness underneath the passenger seat, which they quote at 1200 to 1400 to repair their ill design and final product
- Steering
Power steering failure - intermittent and during motion, MINI dealership provided records that the claim was cleared with # and mileage, but this IS false information if still covered by nhtsa # 15v660000. original recall # that was entered in the "repair history" from MINI that never occurred IS m320215. thank you
- Steering
Driving normally on city paved road started to make turn on side street and lost total steering control and went up on curb just missing a pedestrian on sidewalk.this vehicle has 79300 miles.the electric hydraulic pump completely failed.mini USA said this vin IS not part of the recall yet just…
Driving normally on city paved road started to make turn on side street and lost total steering control and went up on curb just missing a pedestrian on sidewalk.this vehicle has 79300 miles.the electric hydraulic pump completely failed.mini USA said this vin IS not part of the recall yet just about every MINI inported to USA has complete steering lose 2002-2003-2004-2005 and I believe they are hiding this from you and the public who are still buying these used cars and not knowing the dangerous problem the MINI has and flawed power steering pump design.thank you.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. The contact stated that the steering wheel seized and an abnormal noise was heard while driving approximately 65 mph. The failure occurred without warning. The vehicle was taken to MINI of san diego (5202 kearny mesa rd, san diego, ca) where it was diagnosed…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. The contact stated that the steering wheel seized and an abnormal noise was heard while driving approximately 65 mph. The failure occurred without warning. The vehicle was taken to MINI of san diego (5202 kearny mesa rd, san diego, ca) where it was diagnosed that the vehicle was operating as intended. The dealer also stated that the vehicle was previously repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 15v660000 (steering). The vehicle was not repaired and the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and it was determined that the power steering pump was the original manufactured part, which meant that no parts were replaced as the dealer originally stated. The manufacturer was notified and informed the contact that they had no records of the vehicle being serviced per the recall. The dealer was contacted again and stated that the recall was serviced in march of 2017. The failure mileage was approximately 164,000.
- Power train
While in motion, car began to become jerky while excelerating, than the transmission disingaged. no gear would work thereafter.
- Engine
TL* the contact owned a 2003 MINI cooper. While the vehicle was parked in the parking lot, the neighbors noticed that it caught fire and called the fire department. The police arrived and filed a report. The fire department extinguished the fire. The police informed the contact that the fire…
TL* the contact owned a 2003 MINI cooper. While the vehicle was parked in the parking lot, the neighbors noticed that it caught fire and called the fire department. The police arrived and filed a report. The fire department extinguished the fire. The police informed the contact that the fire originated from the engine. The vehicle was destroyed and towed to the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 120,000.
- Steering
The electro-hydraulic power steering system experiences temporary loss of assistance when vehicle IS starting up and it IS nearly impossible to maneuver the car to pull out of a parking space. However, the power steering returns to normal as soon as you begin street or highway driving. I took my…
The electro-hydraulic power steering system experiences temporary loss of assistance when vehicle IS starting up and it IS nearly impossible to maneuver the car to pull out of a parking space. However, the power steering returns to normal as soon as you begin street or highway driving. I took my car to a MINI dealership and they stated that my particular steering pump isn't covered in the warranty although I did receive a letter indicating that it should be. I have the exact same issues happening with my vehicle that the recall IS talking about.
- Electrical system · Engine · Power train
Windshield cracked from the bottom where it meets the hood of the car. driver's side window does not go down. I only hear a clicking sound. water pump, oil pan and valve cover gaskets failed prematurely. I can't shift the car into first gear without multiple attempts.
- Electrical system · Engine · Steering
While traveling north on us 221 from bent mountain, va to roanoke va my hydralic steering totally failed. As I travelled a short distance my brake light warning lights, ABS light, other brake system light, battery light and air bag warning light came on. I looked at the engine temperature guage and…
While traveling north on us 221 from bent mountain, va to roanoke va my hydralic steering totally failed. As I travelled a short distance my brake light warning lights, ABS light, other brake system light, battery light and air bag warning light came on. I looked at the engine temperature guage and the temp was normal. I pulled into a parking lot, raised the hood, checked the fluids in the engine compartment and reentered the car. While sitting in the drivers seat I heard a loud explosion, looked forward and noted thick steam coming from the engine compartment. I turned the engine off, exited the car and when the steam dissipated I noted that the cooling system filling/overflow tank was split in half damaging a protecting cover on the firewall and sprayed a building wall and window with engine coolant 10 feet away in front of the vehicle. I had the car towed to martin's german service in cave spring, va. Because the closest dealership in located in north carolina 150 miles away. due to service volume they will not be able to evaluate the problem until 24 may 2016.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. The contact heard an abnormal noise coming from the steering column and the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v660000 (steering); however, the part to do the repair was not available.…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. The contact heard an abnormal noise coming from the steering column and the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v660000 (steering); however, the part to do the repair was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. While driving approximately 30 mph, there was a loss of power steering without warning. The vehicle was manuvered to the side of the road. The contact resumed driving; however, the steering wheel was extremely difficult to turn. The contact mentioned that…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. While driving approximately 30 mph, there was a loss of power steering without warning. The vehicle was manuvered to the side of the road. The contact resumed driving; however, the steering wheel was extremely difficult to turn. The contact mentioned that there was a recall associated with nhtsa campaign number: 15v660000 (steering); however, the dealer failed to service the vehicle because the recall notification was not received. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 85,113.
- Electrical system · Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. While driving approximately 15 mph, the power steering seized. The battery and temperature gauge warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was not diagnosed nor repaired. the contact received notification of nhtsa campaign…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 MINI cooper. While driving approximately 15 mph, the power steering seized. The battery and temperature gauge warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was not diagnosed nor repaired. the contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v660000 (steering); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vin was unknown. The approximate failure mileage was 168,000.
- Electrical system
Our 2003 MINI cooper was driven in october 2015 in first and second gear, in bumper to bumper slow traffic, uphill for about a mile. when we shut the car off and got out of it, a fan in the engine compartment continued to run. we went back into the car, started it again, then shut if off for a…
Our 2003 MINI cooper was driven in october 2015 in first and second gear, in bumper to bumper slow traffic, uphill for about a mile. when we shut the car off and got out of it, a fan in the engine compartment continued to run. we went back into the car, started it again, then shut if off for a second time, and the fan continued to run. the fan ran about 5 to 10 minutes while the car was parked. we have been told that the stage 1 cooling fan has failed and that the stage 2 cooling fan was running to cool down the engine.
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.
- 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
- 10043927BMW MINI: airbag warning light IS on: mrs fc 02, 03, 05, 06.
- 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.
- 10040372BMW: the crimping process of the oxygen sensor could lead to an electrical failure inside the sensor. There may be a malfunction light on with a fault code stored.
- 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.
Every MINI Cooper model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.