82 of the
2,854 complaints filed about the Mini Cooper
are about the other systems —
3% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2005.
Anytime the wipers are on and the speed is above 50 mph, this car periodically applies the brakes to keep the rotors dry. It's an automated system that BMW's and Mini's have. However, for some reason, the vehicle now pulls hard to the right, which veers the car into the other lane. The brake pads and rotors are all new. The tires are new and the alignment is good. The brake fluid was just changed and bled. There is literally nothing wrong except for this bizarre system which is now only applying some brake pressure to the front right rotor. The car slows and pulls right suddenly without applying the brake lights. I'm worried I will get rear ended or side swipe somebody. I've resorted to using Rainx and not using the wipers or simply avoiding driving in the rain. This is a serious issue that should be a recall. Thank you!
NHTSA complaint #11756726 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
This vin waa not included in a recall however had recall issues it obtained water in the footwell which mini has a recall issue for this and the car was caught on fire it is at the dealership in [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11750905 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The "Passenger Airbag Off" light is illuminated, meaning the primary safety restraint system is disabled. The failed component is the "Occupancy Classification System (OCS) / OC3 Sensor Mat." I purchased a very well-maintained 2014 MINI in March 2026 and the failure occurred shortly after the 10-year warranty window expired. BMW Group has similar BMW models using the very same technology, and they received 15-year extensions, not 10. BMW Coverage: Has extended the warranty for the OC3 mat to 15 years/Unlimited miles for specific "eligible US-specification" models like the 3 Series, 5 Series, and Z4. MINI Coverage: Currently caps the warranty extension at 10 years/120,000 miles for its eligible vehicles.
NHTSA complaint #11734671 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The dealer refused to perform the required FRM recall inspection and denied the recall without providing any of the federally required documentation. I was forced to pay out‑of‑pocket for the FRM module replacement even though my VIN is listed under the safety recall. MINI of Murray stated my FRM “failed,” but admitted they never opened the module, which is required to determine internal moisture intrusion. • The Service Manager stated they based their denial on “carpet and headliner moisture,” which is not part of the FRM recall inspection procedure. • I requested the FRM inspection report, photos, and the MINI Corporate denial code. I received none of these. • MINI Corporate Recall Team confirmed they had no documentation from the dealer and incorrectly stated that the module does not need to be opened. • Without a completed inspection uploaded to MINI Corporate, a denial code cannot be generated. • I was charged for the FRM replacement part, even though the recall should cover the repair if the module is affected. • The dealer only offered to waive a $149 programming fee. Safety Concern: The dealer failed to follow required recall procedures, failed to document the inspection, and denied federally mandated recall coverage without evidence. This violates recall protocol and leaves the safety defect unresolved. The module was replaced at my expense.
NHTSA complaint #11713743 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I’ve been experiencing headaches, dizziness, and sudden tearing episodes while driving and the tearing only happens while driving my MINI. A few of these episodes have occurred on the highway, the painful eye irritation and crazy tearing made it very difficult to keep my eyes open, which has been super dangerous. I forced myself to keep at least one eye open to pull over, and fortunately I'm still alive. I recently found that these symptoms are probably linked to the premature failure (at 10k miles) of the AC system and exposure to the refrigerant leaked from the vent. I noticed AC hissing noise a few days after my warranty expired at only 10k miles, the dealer found super low refrigerant but could not find any leak. They recharged it and said my car was good, but noise came back after 3 months. They were still not able to find the leak, and asked me to replace one part at a time until it's fixed. I called MINI, MINI helped the dealer to find leak from compressor and replaced it. I mentioned a weird odor every time I start my car but they didn't investigate further. The noise came back again after 5 months (at 12k miles). I brought it to another dealer (since I moved) and two independent mechanics (as the previous dealer has been very incompetent), all diagnosed leak from evaporator because of the odor and that the cabin air filter has refrigerant dye all over it upon checking. The previous dealer didn't check the filter at all according to my dash camera, and because of the same odor, the timeline of the repeated failures, I believe the evaporator leak also happened at 10k miles. And one of the independent mechanics who specializes in BMW and MINI mentioned he had seen quite a few such cases in 2018 and 2019 MINIs. I think failure of two major AC components at such low mileage isn't normal, and the unexpected headache, dizziness, and strong eye irritation while driving are super dangerous. The repair cost for the defects should not be customers' responsibility.
NHTSA complaint #11688267 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The rear brake lights and rear signal indicator lights keep going in and out arbitrarily. It's dangerous because it will work fine and then just randomly stop working and then work again. People can't tell if I'm stopping or turning when this randomly occurs. This is currently not a recall on my Mini, however, I saw that it is a recall on other Minis and it seems mine is having the same issue so it's possible they all have similar or the same faulty wiring/electrical for the brake lights and signal indicator lights.
NHTSA complaint #11678331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The instrument cluster completely went blank and stopped working while driving, causing loss of critical information such as speed, warning lights, fuel level, and other vital indicators. This failure significantly impaired the safe operation of the vehicle and posed a serious safety risk. The vehicle is no longer under warranty, and I had to pay out-of-pocket for repairs. I understand there is a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) related to this instrument cluster issue (“Instrument cluster version MID black screen”), which indicates this is a known defect. I urge the NHTSA to investigate this matter to ensure other owners of this vehicle model are aware and protected. Thank you for your attention.
NHTSA complaint #11674947 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2018 Mini Convertible has 47,000 miles on it. Recently the convertible top stopped retracting and now doesn't fit snuggly when closed. I brought my car into the dealer and they said that a cable broke and gave me a repair quote of $4600-. I sent a msg to Mini USA and they called me and said they would cover the repair if it breakage wasn't due to something I did improperly. About a week later they called back and stated that they would not cover the repair because the warranty had expired. They definitely mislead me on the initial call. My car no longer operates as a convertible, and I have excessive wind noise in the car. I feel like a car with 47,000 miles on it should not be experiencing such expensive repairs. I shared my experience on social media and apparently many others are having similar experiences. I am considering trading my car in for a different model as Mini Cooper does not stand behind their products.
NHTSA complaint #11673014 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Error code is 93C3 Passenger Seat Occupancy Detector. This seems to be a known problem on almost every Mini Cooper and should be recalled and replaced. Car barely has 63k miles on it.
NHTSA complaint #11654599 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
there is a leak which affected the control unit fuel pump. the leak is ongoing throughout many of these cars yet there has not been a recall to fix it. more than $3k in damages. It's something a modern car should not be facing.
NHTSA complaint #11647364 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Thermostat sensor malfunction. Mini coopers all around world had issues with the first generation thermostats and sensors, they created an entirely new system for all new minis with a new thermostat house and different sensor type. Yet they did not recall all the other minis when they don’t even sell the old thermostat anymore. So the new house and sensor won’t fit on the first gen models. This is a worldwide issue with first gen models
NHTSA complaint #11645399 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
COPY OF COMPLAINT sent to MINI USA today 9/2/24. (Removed my personal data -name, address, email, phone number): I have been waiting since JULY 2023 for notice of a fix for this DANGEROUS ISSUE of failed FOOTWELL MODULES that can CATCH ON FIRE! How is this either legal or humane? When I call, and I call regularly, to ask about any progress made in CORRECTING THE POTENTIALLY FATAL to the driver, problem, I'm asked to BE PATIENT...that a fix is being studied but none has become available. And, oh yes, always the "FOOTWELL FIRES are very very rare"...so I suppose if I have one and I DIE my heirs should take comfort in knowing that it was very very rare? Here's the bottom line. I spoke with a service manager at MINI OF LOVELAND and I will not divulge his name because he doesn't deserve to be reprimanded or hassled. I asked him if they were replacing ANY FOOTWELL MODULES BECAUSE OF THE RECALL. I was given the same BS about "working on creating a part that will fix it". Yeah, right. But here's the jewel in this conversation: When I asked what they'd do if my Footwell module failed for MECHANICAL REASONS he told me and I BELIEVE it's a fix that should be offered to all affected owners: "He told me that when FWMODULES in my make/model/year mini, fail (not catch fire but fail as they normally do - i.e. windows won't go up or down, OR turn signals and or/headlights won't work, etc. the fix for that also address the recall issue: REPLACE THE FOOTWELL WITH THE SAME PART with these modifications to address the corrosion/fire recall: They remove the old broken module. They clean out the entire footwell removing any signs of corrosion from the leaked in water. THEY PACK the module with material that will prevent moisture from seeping in. AND then they close it back up! AT NO CHARGE TO THE OWNER> I WANT THIS FIX! I deserve this fix as do other mini owners who are affected by this recall to prevent death or severe burns or both from failed footwell modules. THANKS
NHTSA complaint #11623245 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The problem/issue is with THE GLASS ON MY CAR ROOF/THE PANORAMIC SUNROOF. No insulation to protect me/others from heat or cold. The temp of roof gets 2-3 times the temp of the day. 200-300F. This can lead to discomfort/use of EXTRA energy/pollution etc. A child left in such car wd be in deadly danger. The car maker does not want to know or do anything about it. My Mini is not the only car. Almost all have the same design flaw, Tesla is the worst case with full glass roof no insulation at all, KEY PROBLEM/ISSIE Car makers hv remover insulation from car roofs and replaced it with glass but did not replace the insulation. Some as Tesla have nothing others just a simple net-like material with no insulation properties. Detailed analysis with proof attached. This is HUGE problem/issue/flaw that has serious consequences. I titled my analysis THE DARK SIDE OF GLASS ON OUR CARS,. Millions of these cars (Tesla esp over 2 M) are wasting 100s of Ms worth of energy both electric and fossil. Also contribute to additional environmental impact, for the wasted energy has to be made and then wasted by car engines to compensate for lack of insulation in car roofs. No house/homes wd be allowed to be built without insulation in attic/roof etc. So why are car makers allowed to do it with cars. Maybe the govt is not even aware of this. It is possible removing insulation from car roofs is illegal and/or against industry standards. The car makers did it and no one watched them. Many car owners think this is normal. It is not and should be stopped. Please look into this important issue. More details and proof in my analysis. Thank you. ps; I found solution for my car as shown on picture. I could not attach my analysis It is most important I send it to you. Pls send me an email where I can send it. The pictures show the roofs with no insulation and MINI with my solution for heat prevention.
NHTSA complaint #11613353 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Letter of IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL Recall Campaign No. 23V-337: Footwell Control Module (FRM) was received July 2023. Ten months later there still is NO REMEDY. MINI USA should have a resolution by now. I am concerned with the long delay creating unsafe conditions while driving my car.
NHTSA complaint #11586402 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Received recall from MINI USA May 2023 “Safety Recall footwell control module 23V-337. Update May 2024 “remedy being developed”. I’m unable to have a mini dealership confirm safety of my veh as there are no dealerships in State of Maine, closest in Peabody MA 1.5 hrs away. It’s going on 1 yr & no remedy on the horizon? I called Mini USA hotline and they can’t help. This is unacceptable. Are they required to resolve in a timely manner? Should they be required to buy my veh back as it wouldn’t pass inspection & unable to drive?? Please provide next steps. Thank you
NHTSA complaint #11585025 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On [XXX], mileage was 47,744 I took Mini for service, and told them that the front right headlight didn't work, they replaced the light bulb and they found out that the headlight was still inoperable, and internally shorted. They didn't want to include it in the extended warranty. The mini has electrical issues (FRM). The headlight wires are damaged inside the light housing and are bare-striped even if you change the light bulb when you hit a bump the wires touch the bulb short out. So my car was under the extended warranty when I took it to Braman Motors Miami for service but they failed to correct the problem. BMW of North America extended the warranty for 10 years /156,000 miles whichever occurs first, as determined by your vehicle's service date (original service date is 3/16/2010) extending the limited warranty for the Footwell Module (FRM) This problem is a known problem by BMW / Mini they currently have open recalls on the model, series, production date, and year. but since hardly anyone files complaints to NHTSA in Fla, this problem is ongoing. [XXX], under violation of federal law (The Safety Act) dealers can't sell, lease, or deliver any vehicle until recall repairs have been performed. But they overlook the problem at the dealership when the car is in the shop for service. I was given a multi-point inspection it passed 28 of them LOL, but the first one (Operation of all light and signals, (passed)...lol So how can this test pass? When I picked up the Mini nothing was working turn signals, the front right headlight, windows, hazard lights, fog lights. However, the dealer overlooks the safety recall and wants to charge the client an additional charge to diagnose the FRM. They gave me an estimate for $1,985.38 if I had approved the work that they said the Mini needed, but nothing to do with the recall (FRM) is this how BMW handles this safety recall? They don't care to solve the problem at any level dealer or manufacturer. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C.
NHTSA complaint #11579777 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
This has a major recall and won’t pass inspection. Engine light is on . I’ve called dealership and was told parts are on back order . Last year I was told the same thing before I received a letter in the mail.
NHTSA complaint #11569949 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My car is affected by this recall and I have no turn signals, dash lights, high beams, working windows, security system, or backup sensors. There are also codes thrown which prevents me from renewing my registration due to DEQ test failure. The dealership can’t do anything and BMW North America has done nothing to remedy things.
NHTSA complaint #11566575 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
*The condensate drain hose is not properly draining the condensate from the vehicle. *Breathing in mold and didn't know it *Yes the problem was confirmed by the dealer *The dealer inspected *no warnings, no recalls
NHTSA complaint #11552302 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
In July 2023, a recall letter I received from MINI states a defective Footwell Control Module “could potentially result in a short circuit, resulting in a potential thermal event which could increase the risk of a fire or injury.” It also states “a remedy is currently being developed.” I called the local MINI dealer service department, and that department had never heard of the defect or the recall, sending me in to MINI Customer Relations. The gentlemen I spoke with said he thought the car was safe to drive (nowhere mentioned in the letter), and he could not offer anything in writing to back-up his claim. When I said what if there is a fire in the car, he suggested I “evacuate the vehicle.” I asked for a loaner since I was and still am concerned the car is not in fact safe to drive without an official written confirmation from MINI explaining why and how MINI knows my affected car is safe to drive in light of “increased risk of a fire or injury” identified in the recall letter. He could not answer and sent me on to MINI’s “Executive Office.” I received a call from Alyssa in that office who confirmed that no loaner or alternative transportation would be provided and who offered no other solution beyond another assurance the car was safe to drive despite the specific reference to increased “risk of fire or injury” in the recall letter. Again, no supporting information was provided for that claim, so I remain uncertain as to the safety of my vehicle and will not drive it without a remedy. I offered to have MINI buy back the car if they are so sure it is safe since I will not try to sell the car to anyone else under the circumstances. Since then, nothing whatsoever has happened and my car just sits idle. Surely there is some remedy available for this sort of callous disregard of customer safety and lack of any remedy about a safety issue that MINI itself has acknowledged. I am hoping your office can help me get this resolved quickly.
NHTSA complaint #11538090 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.