Owners have filed 46 complaints
about the 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman with NHTSA between 2011 and 2026.
The largest single group is the electrical system.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 3 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 42
Against the median year of the Mini Cooper Countryman. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 45
8.7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
76% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2011 compares with every other Mini Cooper Countryman
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
924.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
1437.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
718.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
38.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
410.8%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Oct 2011peak 4Apr 2026
Complaints that involved harm
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 111,019 milesBrighton, MIFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked in the driveway while both the contact and his wife were in another vehicle parked in the garage. The contact noticed white smoke coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that upon opening the hood of the vehicle, the contact noticed an electrical burning smell and fire. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher. The contact then noticed that a blue plug had melted and was smoking. A police report was not filed. There was no injury sustained. Upon investigating the failure online, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V008000(Engine and Engine Cooling). The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle remained at the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that he would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 111,019.
NHTSA complaint #11686826 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 111,019 milesBrighton, MIFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked in the driveway while both the contact and his wife were in another vehicle parked in the garage. The contact noticed white smoke coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that upon opening the hood of the vehicle, the contact noticed an electrical burning smell and fire. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher. The contact then noticed that a blue plug had melted and was smoking. A police report was not filed. There was no injury sustained. Upon investigating the failure online, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V008000(Engine and Engine Cooling). The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle remained at the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that he would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 111,019.
NHTSA complaint #11686826 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 42,000 milesWest Port, CTCrash
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MINI COOPER S COUNTRYMAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 3 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. DURING THE IMPACT ALL AIR BAGS INSIDE THE VEHICLE ERRONEOUSLY DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT DURING THE INCIDENT THE FRONT BUMPER OF THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DAMAGED AND THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE REAR BUMPER OF THE OTHER VEHICLE. THE DEALER EXAMINED THE VEHICLE BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE REPLICATED, THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000.
NHTSA complaint #10608728 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,700 milesSAN Francisco, CAFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 25MPH WHEN I SAW SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I PULLED OVER AND POPPED THE HOOD AND FOUND FLAMES IN THE ENGINE BAY. I DIDN'T HAVE AN EXTINGUISHER IN THE CAR AND THERE WASN'T A HOSE IN SIGHT, SO IT BURNED FOR A FEW MINS BEFORE A BYSTANDER STOPPED AND GAVE ME AN EXTINGUISHER. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME SHORTLY AFTER AND DOUSED THE STILL SMOLDERING ENGINE COMPARTMENT WITH WATER. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ON IN THE DASHBOARD BEFORE, DURING OR AFTER THIS FIRE. MY COUNTRYMAN, BUILT IN APRIL 2011 AND PURCHASED IN MAY, HAS ABOUT 5700 MILES ON IT AND HAS OTHERWISE HAD NO PROBLEMS. MY RESEARCH ONLINE INDICATES THAT OTHER MINI MODELS (COOPER S, CLUBMAN) HAVE HAD SIMILAR PROBLEMS, AND THAT THE NHTSA IS INVESTIGATING SOME OF THESE. PLEASE CONSIDER ADDING THE COUNTRYMAN TO YOUR INVESTIGATION OF MINI SPONTANEOUS ENGINE FIRES.
NHTSA complaint #10439348 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 120,000 milesVineland, NJ
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, there was an abnormal burning odor inside and outside the vehicle. The vehicle then stalled. The vehicle was able to be restarted after several hours. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a cracked water pump, which caused the engine to overheat. The contact was informed that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
NHTSA complaint #11729444 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 111,019 milesBrighton, MIFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked in the driveway while both the contact and his wife were in another vehicle parked in the garage. The contact noticed white smoke coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that upon opening the hood of the vehicle, the contact noticed an electrical burning smell and fire. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher. The contact then noticed that a blue plug had melted and was smoking. A police report was not filed. There was no injury sustained. Upon investigating the failure online, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V008000(Engine and Engine Cooling). The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle remained at the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that he would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 111,019.
NHTSA complaint #11686826 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 111,019 milesBrighton, MIFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked in the driveway while both the contact and his wife were in another vehicle parked in the garage. The contact noticed white smoke coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that upon opening the hood of the vehicle, the contact noticed an electrical burning smell and fire. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher. The contact then noticed that a blue plug had melted and was smoking. A police report was not filed. There was no injury sustained. Upon investigating the failure online, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V008000(Engine and Engine Cooling). The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle remained at the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that he would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 111,019.
NHTSA complaint #11686826 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pittsford, MI
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
My 2011 Mini Cooper had to go to my mechanic because I have no turn signals, no dash or interior lights and my front windows will not go up or down. My mechanic determined the problem to be the Footwell Control Module. My mechanic did not/can not repair because it has to be programmed at a Dealership. My dad also has a 2011 Mini Cooper and he has been notified that there is a recall for his VIN # for the Footwell Control Module. I don't understand why there is not a recall for my VIN #. I am at a standstill with a car that I am afraid to drive because I am unable to signal to other drivers that I am about to turn. And I am afraid of being in an accident because of the turn signals and then being trapped in the car because it wont unlock and the windows wont go down. And if I drive it at night I cannot see any of my dash gauges and indicators of problems. I called the nearest Dealership and was told that there will PROBABLY be a recall for my VIN# at some point and that I would be reimbursed for the work if I go ahead and have them do it. I called Mini Cooper and inquired about the possibility of a recall and was told that there may never be a recall. I don't know what to do because the Dealership told me that they will investigate the damage and do the repairs which could include new carpet and body work and and and...... I am sure that I can not afford all of that work to be done at a BMW/Mini Cooper dealership. So I am left with the decision to chance driving it or chance spending a large amount of $ that may never be reimbursed.
NHTSA complaint #11635814 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pittsford, MI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2011 Mini Cooper had to go to my mechanic because I have no turn signals, no dash or interior lights and my front windows will not go up or down. My mechanic determined the problem to be the Footwell Control Module. My mechanic did not/can not repair because it has to be programmed at a Dealership. My dad also has a 2011 Mini Cooper and he has been notified that there is a recall for his VIN # for the Footwell Control Module. I don't understand why there is not a recall for my VIN #. I am at a standstill with a car that I am afraid to drive because I am unable to signal to other drivers that I am about to turn. And I am afraid of being in an accident because of the turn signals and then being trapped in the car because it wont unlock and the windows wont go down. And if I drive it at night I cannot see any of my dash gauges and indicators of problems. I called the nearest Dealership and was told that there will PROBABLY be a recall for my VIN# at some point and that I would be reimbursed for the work if I go ahead and have them do it. I called Mini Cooper and inquired about the possibility of a recall and was told that there may never be a recall. I don't know what to do because the Dealership told me that they will investigate the damage and do the repairs which could include new carpet and body work and and and...... I am sure that I can not afford all of that work to be done at a BMW/Mini Cooper dealership. So I am left with the decision to chance driving it or chance spending a large amount of $ that may never be reimbursed.
NHTSA complaint #11635814 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 29,000 milesCamuela, HI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2011 Mini Copper Countryman. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked at the residence, the vehicle became flooded. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V337000 (Electrical System). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 29,000.
NHTSA complaint #11616505 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
N Charleston, SC
ENGINE
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? HEAD GASKETS BLEW ON THE ENGINE SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASING IN JANUARY 2022. THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED AROUND MARCH 2022. NOW THE REPLACEMENT ENGINE IS SHOWING THE SAME SIGNS THAT THE HEAD GASKETS ARE AGAIN BLOWN. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? THIS CAUSE THE ENGINE TO SHUT DOWN INITIALLY WHEN THEY BLEW. THE ENGINE IS NOW AGAIN MISFIRING AS IF THE HEAD GASKETS HAVE BLOWN AGAIN. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? NOT BEEN TO A SERVICE CENTER YET, BUT IT IS ACTING THE SAME AS THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NOT BEEN INSPECTED CURRENTLY. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN AROUND MAY 2023.
NHTSA complaint #11555328 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Aiken, SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The footwell control module has failed in my Mini which was discovered when it went in for service due to a multitude of dash lights coming on at start up and issues with getting the car to start. I was getting dash lights for to warn that the headlight control motors were off and then the headlights began to flicker around and then shut themselves off, the ABS brake system was off, traction control was off, the AC temperature was not holding a temperature and instead would swing constantly, and I would get a clicking noise in the passenger dash area when it failed to start. When it went in for service, they found that footwell control module was corroded due to water infiltration at some point. Previous to this, I had had an issue with water getting into the floorboards after heavy rains, contacting my local Mini dealership, I was informed to check the drain lines on the sunroofs of my car as this can become clogged and cause water to come into the interior of the car. These drain lines are known to introduce water to the location of the footwell control module to the point that other models of this same year have already had a recall.
NHTSA complaint #11544322 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 108,000 milesPortland, OR
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the contact noticed an abnormal sound. The contact stated that after the vehicle warmed up, the abnormal sound stopped. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was out of warranty. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 108,000.
NHTSA complaint #11520101 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fort Washington, MD
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
IN AUG/SEPT 2016 THE ENGINE LIGHT IN THE MINI CAME ON AND I DECIDED TO GET THE CAR SCANNED AND THE RESULTS WERE THE SAME AS THE ONES MADE BY AUTOZONE STORE 1854 REPORT ID 185416102016054 SHOWING CODE P0599 ALSO RECONFIRMED BY NAPA AND ADVANCE AUTO WHICH NOT PROVIDED REPORT BUT VERBALLY THE SAME ISSUES WITH WATER PUMP/THERMOSTAT/HEATER CONTROL CIRCUIT WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF OVERHEATING AND POSSIBILITY OF FIRE. LOOKING AT FREE VEHUCLE REPORT 2/2/17 STATES A RECALL FROM 01/11/2012 NHTSA CAMPAIGN 12V008000 WICH STATES THE SAME LISTED IN ERROR P0599 THE PROBLEM PRESENTED ON MY VEHICLE REASON I STOPPED DRIVING IT AVOIDING ANY POSSIBILITY OF FIRE OR CASUALTY TO MYSELF OR FAMILY MEMBERS. I CALLED BMW AND THEY MENTIONED MY BEHICLE WAS PAST THE WARRANTY AND THEY CAN NOT HONOR ANY REPAIRS FROM THIS FAULT LISTED IN THE RECALL AND DIRECTION GIVEN ON THE NHTSA REPORT. FINALLY TIRED OF POLITC I DECIDED TO PERFORM REPAIR AND I WAS CHARGED $469.99 AS STATED IN INVOICE 1MCS186357 FOR CUSTOMER 90898 ON 2/10/2017 MINI DEALER ALEXANDRIA VIRGINIA THIS IS THE SAME VEHICLE LISTED ON COMPLAINT 10971106 PANORAMIC SUNROOF WHICH I AM BEING CHARGED FOR RECALLED ITEMS. PLEASE REQUEST REFUND FOR ANY EXPENDITURES PAID TO MINI DEALERSHIPS BECAUSE I HAVE TO PAY IN ORDER TO REMOVE MY VEHICLE FROM PREMISES OR BEING TOWED OUT OF STORE.
NHTSA complaint #10971166 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fort Washington, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE PANORAMIC SUNROOF MECHANISM WONT OPERATE TO OPEN AND CLOSE AND EITHER STICK OPEN OR CLOSE OT NOT CLOSING PROPERLY CAUSING TO LEAK WATER OR NEED REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF TRACK, MOTOR OR CONTROLS MECHANISMS WHICH HAVE INCURRED USERS IN HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS EXPENDITURES AND THE MANUFACTURE DOESN'T ADMIT RESPONSIBILITY AND EVERY TIME THE ISSUE HAPPENS NEW LARGE BILLS HAVE TO BE PAID TO REPAIR THE PANORAMIC SUNROOF WHICH HAS BECOME AN ECONOMIC BURDEN TO MINI COOPER OWNERS FOR THIS MODEL OR THE ONES THAT OFFER THIS AMMENITY WORLDWIDE AND USA SPECIFICALLY.
NHTSA complaint #10971106 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fort Washington, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
IN AUG/SEPT 2016 THE ENGINE LIGHT IN THE MINI CAME ON AND I DECIDED TO GET THE CAR SCANNED AND THE RESULTS WERE THE SAME AS THE ONES MADE BY AUTOZONE STORE 1854 REPORT ID 185416102016054 SHOWING CODE P0599 ALSO RECONFIRMED BY NAPA AND ADVANCE AUTO WHICH NOT PROVIDED REPORT BUT VERBALLY THE SAME ISSUES WITH WATER PUMP/THERMOSTAT/HEATER CONTROL CIRCUIT WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF OVERHEATING AND POSSIBILITY OF FIRE. LOOKING AT FREE VEHUCLE REPORT 2/2/17 STATES A RECALL FROM 01/11/2012 NHTSA CAMPAIGN 12V008000 WICH STATES THE SAME LISTED IN ERROR P0599 THE PROBLEM PRESENTED ON MY VEHICLE REASON I STOPPED DRIVING IT AVOIDING ANY POSSIBILITY OF FIRE OR CASUALTY TO MYSELF OR FAMILY MEMBERS. I CALLED BMW AND THEY MENTIONED MY BEHICLE WAS PAST THE WARRANTY AND THEY CAN NOT HONOR ANY REPAIRS FROM THIS FAULT LISTED IN THE RECALL AND DIRECTION GIVEN ON THE NHTSA REPORT. FINALLY TIRED OF POLITC I DECIDED TO PERFORM REPAIR AND I WAS CHARGED $469.99 AS STATED IN INVOICE 1MCS186357 FOR CUSTOMER 90898 ON 2/10/2017 MINI DEALER ALEXANDRIA VIRGINIA THIS IS THE SAME VEHICLE LISTED ON COMPLAINT 10971106 PANORAMIC SUNROOF WHICH I AM BEING CHARGED FOR RECALLED ITEMS. PLEASE REQUEST REFUND FOR ANY EXPENDITURES PAID TO MINI DEALERSHIPS BECAUSE I HAVE TO PAY IN ORDER TO REMOVE MY VEHICLE FROM PREMISES OR BEING TOWED OUT OF STORE.
NHTSA complaint #10971166 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fort Washington, MD
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
IN AUG/SEPT 2016 THE ENGINE LIGHT IN THE MINI CAME ON AND I DECIDED TO GET THE CAR SCANNED AND THE RESULTS WERE THE SAME AS THE ONES MADE BY AUTOZONE STORE 1854 REPORT ID 185416102016054 SHOWING CODE P0599 ALSO RECONFIRMED BY NAPA AND ADVANCE AUTO WHICH NOT PROVIDED REPORT BUT VERBALLY THE SAME ISSUES WITH WATER PUMP/THERMOSTAT/HEATER CONTROL CIRCUIT WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF OVERHEATING AND POSSIBILITY OF FIRE. LOOKING AT FREE VEHUCLE REPORT 2/2/17 STATES A RECALL FROM 01/11/2012 NHTSA CAMPAIGN 12V008000 WICH STATES THE SAME LISTED IN ERROR P0599 THE PROBLEM PRESENTED ON MY VEHICLE REASON I STOPPED DRIVING IT AVOIDING ANY POSSIBILITY OF FIRE OR CASUALTY TO MYSELF OR FAMILY MEMBERS. I CALLED BMW AND THEY MENTIONED MY BEHICLE WAS PAST THE WARRANTY AND THEY CAN NOT HONOR ANY REPAIRS FROM THIS FAULT LISTED IN THE RECALL AND DIRECTION GIVEN ON THE NHTSA REPORT. FINALLY TIRED OF POLITC I DECIDED TO PERFORM REPAIR AND I WAS CHARGED $469.99 AS STATED IN INVOICE 1MCS186357 FOR CUSTOMER 90898 ON 2/10/2017 MINI DEALER ALEXANDRIA VIRGINIA THIS IS THE SAME VEHICLE LISTED ON COMPLAINT 10971106 PANORAMIC SUNROOF WHICH I AM BEING CHARGED FOR RECALLED ITEMS. PLEASE REQUEST REFUND FOR ANY EXPENDITURES PAID TO MINI DEALERSHIPS BECAUSE I HAVE TO PAY IN ORDER TO REMOVE MY VEHICLE FROM PREMISES OR BEING TOWED OUT OF STORE.
NHTSA complaint #10971166 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 97,000 milesMuskegon, MI
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
ON JULY 20, 2016 WHEN WE QUESTIONED REPAIR COSTS COVERED BY OUR 2011 MINI MAINTENANCE PROGRAM UPGRADE AGREEMENT, THE SHARPE COLLECTION MINI DEALERSHIP IN GRAND RAPIDS MICHIGAN WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE A PAPER COPY OF THE AGREEMENT. NOR DID THEY SUBSEQUENTLY EMAIL IT TO US AS REQUESTED. IN ADDITION, WE REQUESTED THE SAME DOCUMENTATION ON THE MINI USA WEBSITE AT MINIUSA.COM AND IT WAS NOT FORTHCOMING AFTER SEVERAL WEEKS. IT IS OUR UNDERSTANDING THAT THE DEALERSHIP BY LAW MUST KEEP ALL PAPERWORK OF THIS NATURE AVAILABLE TO CLIENTS FOR 7 YEARS.
NHTSA complaint #10897929 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 97,000 milesMuskegon, MI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
A JUNE 2016 LEAK IN THE OIL PUMP SOLENOID VALVE RESULTED IN REQUIRED REPLACEMENT OF THE DME (INCLUDING PROGRAMMING) AND THE ENGINE HARNESS. THIS ISSUE PRESENTED A SAFETY PROBLEM BECAUSE IT OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING ON THE EXPRESSWAY AND RESULTED IN EXTREME SLUGGISHNESS OF THE ACCELERATOR. SAFECAR.GOV IDENTIFIED MINI SERVICE INFORMATION BULLETINS THAT ADDRESS THE LEAK FROM THE SOLENOID AS EARLY AS 2012. MORE THAN ONE SERVICE BULLETIN (SI M11 01 12 DATED 6/2012, 1/2013, 1/2014) WERE MADE AVAILABLE TO DEALERSHIPS THAT OUTLINED THE PROBLEM AND REPAIR FOR THIS ISSUE. SINCE THIS ISSUE PRESENTS SAFETY PROBLEMS WHEN DRIVING THE CAR, WE ASSERT THE PROBLEM SHOULD HAVE BEEN PROACTIVELY FIXED. SINCE MINI USA HAS NOT DONE SO, THERE SHOULD BE A GOVERNMENT RECALL TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM. FURTHERMORE, WHEN THE PROBLEM MANIFESTED IN OUR CAR WE WERE EXPECTED TO COVER THE REPAIR COST. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE TO US SINCE THE DEALERSHIP KNEW ABOUT YET WAS NOT PROACTIVE IN PREVENTING THE SAFETY ISSUE. IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT WHEN WE COMPLAINED TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY REIMBURSED LESS THAN HALF OF THE REPAIR COSTS.
NHTSA complaint #10897925 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 97,000 milesMuskegon, MI
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
A JUNE 2016 LEAK IN THE OIL PUMP SOLENOID VALVE RESULTED IN REQUIRED REPLACEMENT OF THE DME (INCLUDING PROGRAMMING) AND THE ENGINE HARNESS. THIS ISSUE PRESENTED A SAFETY PROBLEM BECAUSE IT OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING ON THE EXPRESSWAY AND RESULTED IN EXTREME SLUGGISHNESS OF THE ACCELERATOR. SAFECAR.GOV IDENTIFIED MINI SERVICE INFORMATION BULLETINS THAT ADDRESS THE LEAK FROM THE SOLENOID AS EARLY AS 2012. MORE THAN ONE SERVICE BULLETIN (SI M11 01 12 DATED 6/2012, 1/2013, 1/2014) WERE MADE AVAILABLE TO DEALERSHIPS THAT OUTLINED THE PROBLEM AND REPAIR FOR THIS ISSUE. SINCE THIS ISSUE PRESENTS SAFETY PROBLEMS WHEN DRIVING THE CAR, WE ASSERT THE PROBLEM SHOULD HAVE BEEN PROACTIVELY FIXED. SINCE MINI USA HAS NOT DONE SO, THERE SHOULD BE A GOVERNMENT RECALL TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM. FURTHERMORE, WHEN THE PROBLEM MANIFESTED IN OUR CAR WE WERE EXPECTED TO COVER THE REPAIR COST. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE TO US SINCE THE DEALERSHIP KNEW ABOUT YET WAS NOT PROACTIVE IN PREVENTING THE SAFETY ISSUE. IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT WHEN WE COMPLAINED TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY REIMBURSED LESS THAN HALF OF THE REPAIR COSTS.
NHTSA complaint #10897925 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesSanta Barbara, CA
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MINI COOPER COUNTRYMAN. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT FELT THE VEHICLE DOWNSHIFT. IN ADDITION, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FUNCTIONED INDEPENDENTLY AND DIFFERENT WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. WHEN THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOST POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS UNDETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
NHTSA complaint #10839300 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesSanta Barbara, CA
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MINI COOPER COUNTRYMAN. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT FELT THE VEHICLE DOWNSHIFT. IN ADDITION, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FUNCTIONED INDEPENDENTLY AND DIFFERENT WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. WHEN THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOST POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS UNDETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
NHTSA complaint #10839300 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesSanta Barbara, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MINI COOPER COUNTRYMAN. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT FELT THE VEHICLE DOWNSHIFT. IN ADDITION, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FUNCTIONED INDEPENDENTLY AND DIFFERENT WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. WHEN THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOST POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS UNDETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
NHTSA complaint #10839300 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesSanta Barbara, CA
VISIBILITY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MINI COOPER COUNTRYMAN. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT FELT THE VEHICLE DOWNSHIFT. IN ADDITION, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FUNCTIONED INDEPENDENTLY AND DIFFERENT WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. WHEN THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOST POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS UNDETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
NHTSA complaint #10839300 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 41,000 milesKaty, TX
STEERING
THE POWER STEERING LOCKED UP AND IS IMPOSSIBLE TO TURN. MY WIFE WAS DRIVING.
NHTSA complaint #10807457 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 15,000 milesBIG Pine KEY, FL
AIR BAGS
REFERENCE MY CALL IN REPORT REF. # 10598125: THE "PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF" LIGHT (LOCATED IN THE OVERHEAD CONSOLE) REMAINS ILLUMINATED AFTER THE SYSTEM DOES IT'S INITIAL CHECK AT START UP. IF ANYONE SITS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT THE LIGHT GOES OUT. THE SYSTEM DID NOT OPERATE THIS WAY UNTIL THE CAR REACHED APPROXIMATELY 15,000 MILES. ORIGINALLY THE LIGHT WOULD COME ON FOR A FEW SECONDS AT START UP THEN GO OUT. AFTER CHECKING SEVERAL OWNER BLOGS ONLINE, I FOUND OUT THAT ALL OWNERS EXPERIENCING THIS ISSUE HAVE BEEN UNSUCCESSFUL IN GETTING A DEFINITIVE EXPLANATION FROM THEIR DEALERS. SOME DEALERS REPAIRED THE ISSUE BY REPLACING THE SEAT PAN SENSOR OR REPAIRING THE UNDER SEAT CONNECTOR. SOME DEALERS HAVE SAID THE CONDITION IS NORMAL. I TOOK MY CAR TO MY DEALER, "SOUTH MINI OF MIAMI" AND WAS INITIALLY TOLD THERE WAS AN OBVIOUS PROBLEM AND SCHEDULED THE CAR FOR TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIR. AFTER THE SCHEDULED SERVICE, I WAS TOLD THAT THE SYSTEM WAS CHECKED AND THAT ALL COMPONENTS WERE OPERATIONAL AND NOTHING WAS FAULTY. I WAS ALSO TOLD THAT THE LIGHT REMAINING ON WITHOUT A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT WAS NORMAL. MY CONCERN IS THAT NONE OF THE USA MINI DEALERSHIPS CAN DEFINITIVELY EXPLAIN THE CORRECT OPERATION OF THE SYSTEM OR WHY IT SUDDENLY STARTED WORKING IN A DIFFERENT WAY. IT CAN'T BE CORRECT BOTH WAYS; IT WAS EITHER FAULTY FOR THE FIRST 15,000 MILES OR IT IS FAULTY NOW. THIS APPEARS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE WITH SEVERAL MINI COOPERS AND SOME BMW MODELS. I BELIEVE FURTHER INVESTIGATION IS WARRANTED GIVEN THE POTENTIAL FOR CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE "SMART AIRBAG SYSTEM" .
NHTSA complaint #10629742 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,111 milesHendersonville, NC
WHEELS
AT A WARRANTY SERVICE FOR AN EXTERIOR TRIM ITEM, THE MINI TECH WENT TO VERIFY MY MILEAGE AND ALSO EXAMINED MY RUN-FLAT TIRES IN DETAIL (GOODYEAR 225/45 R18 EFFICIENT GRIP). HE ADVISED THAT TWO TIRES HAD DEFECTIVE SIDEWALLS AND SAID THEY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. HE EVEN RECOMMENDED A DIFFERENT BRAND. THE TIRES WERE UNDER WARRANTY AND I REALLY HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO HAVE THEM REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY TERMS. BECAUSE IT WAS AN AWD VEHICLE, I CHOSE ALSO TO HAVE ALL FOUR REPLACED. 4000 MILES LATER, I NOTICED A SIDEWALL BULGE ON ONE OF MY FRONT TIRES. I COMPLAINED TO MINI THAT THE TIRES THEY WERE PROVIDING WERE DEFECTIVE AND HAD I THOUGHT MORE ABOUT THE MINI TECH'S ACTIONS IN THE BEGINNING, I WOULD HAVE SUSPECTED THAT MINI WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AT THE OUTSET. MINI USA RESPONSE WAS AS EXPECTED, GIVING ME A LECTURE ON WHAT CAUSES A TIRE TO WEAR AND FAIL ETC., AND ADVISED THE PROBLEM WAS BETWEEN ME AND GOODYEAR. I TOLD THEM THAT THEIR RESPONSE WAS NOT ADEQUATE AND I WOULD FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE CONSUMER PROTECTION AGENCY, WHICH I DID. MY SITUATION CONCERNS ME. I NOTICED ON-LINE THAT THERE WERE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT RUN-FLAT TECHNOLOGY AND WONDER IF THIS IS A FAULTY CONCLUSION THAT THE WEIGHT SAVED BY ELIMINATING SPARE TIRES, JACKS, ETC JUSTIFIES THE GAS CONSUMPTION OBJECTIVES. I AM NOT SURPRISED HOW "STAND-OFF-ISH" THE TIRE DEALER AND MINI ARE, SIMPLY BECAUSE THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE TO BOOT.
NHTSA complaint #10627740 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,111 milesHendersonville, NC
TIRES
AT A WARRANTY SERVICE FOR AN EXTERIOR TRIM ITEM, THE MINI TECH WENT TO VERIFY MY MILEAGE AND ALSO EXAMINED MY RUN-FLAT TIRES IN DETAIL (GOODYEAR 225/45 R18 EFFICIENT GRIP). HE ADVISED THAT TWO TIRES HAD DEFECTIVE SIDEWALLS AND SAID THEY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. HE EVEN RECOMMENDED A DIFFERENT BRAND. THE TIRES WERE UNDER WARRANTY AND I REALLY HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO HAVE THEM REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY TERMS. BECAUSE IT WAS AN AWD VEHICLE, I CHOSE ALSO TO HAVE ALL FOUR REPLACED. 4000 MILES LATER, I NOTICED A SIDEWALL BULGE ON ONE OF MY FRONT TIRES. I COMPLAINED TO MINI THAT THE TIRES THEY WERE PROVIDING WERE DEFECTIVE AND HAD I THOUGHT MORE ABOUT THE MINI TECH'S ACTIONS IN THE BEGINNING, I WOULD HAVE SUSPECTED THAT MINI WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AT THE OUTSET. MINI USA RESPONSE WAS AS EXPECTED, GIVING ME A LECTURE ON WHAT CAUSES A TIRE TO WEAR AND FAIL ETC., AND ADVISED THE PROBLEM WAS BETWEEN ME AND GOODYEAR. I TOLD THEM THAT THEIR RESPONSE WAS NOT ADEQUATE AND I WOULD FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE CONSUMER PROTECTION AGENCY, WHICH I DID. MY SITUATION CONCERNS ME. I NOTICED ON-LINE THAT THERE WERE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT RUN-FLAT TECHNOLOGY AND WONDER IF THIS IS A FAULTY CONCLUSION THAT THE WEIGHT SAVED BY ELIMINATING SPARE TIRES, JACKS, ETC JUSTIFIES THE GAS CONSUMPTION OBJECTIVES. I AM NOT SURPRISED HOW "STAND-OFF-ISH" THE TIRE DEALER AND MINI ARE, SIMPLY BECAUSE THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE TO BOOT.
NHTSA complaint #10627740 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 42,000 milesWest Port, CTCrash
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MINI COOPER S COUNTRYMAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 3 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. DURING THE IMPACT ALL AIR BAGS INSIDE THE VEHICLE ERRONEOUSLY DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT DURING THE INCIDENT THE FRONT BUMPER OF THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DAMAGED AND THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE REAR BUMPER OF THE OTHER VEHICLE. THE DEALER EXAMINED THE VEHICLE BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE REPLICATED, THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000.
NHTSA complaint #10608728 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.