Discover the History of Mini Coopers
In 1957 gas prices were soaring, and an engineer with the Morris Company designed a small, fuel-efficient, and affordable car we know as the Mini Cooper. The car would hit the public market in 1959 and the first of many historic moments was established.
It quickly became a cultural phenomenon that was fun to drive and gave its 4 passengers a thrill to ride in. Like any car though, there would be needs for the car that would be known as ‘mini’ repairs to follow. Unfortunately, being a ‘cute’ car doesn’t make for a reliable car.
Mini repairs and maintenance have cost its reputation as being a reliable choice in cars. Yet, it still remains popular because of its cute appearance and style. There aren’t many cars recognizable by a distinctive design. Among the most popular are the VW Bug, the Chrysler PT Cruiser, and today, the Kia Soul are among the few. Note they all have something in common: compact and cute!
According to experts in this industry, because of the many mini repairs needed for this cultural phenomenon have damaged any reputation possibility of being a reliable car. In fact, it is #25 in line with 32 car brands when it comes to ranking reliability.
What are the most common problems with the Mini?
Repairs on the Mini Cooper are often caused by one of these problems:
- The Automatic Transmission
At 113,000 miles, a key mini repair is for the automatic transmission, especially with the ones manufactured between 2005 and 2007. Mechanics have many coming in for mini repairs for scraping sounds when accelerating or total failed transmission.
- The Timing Chain
Another movement issue that many mechanics have had complaints about needing mini repairs is the timing chain. This component seems to wear down and becomes loose, and the mechanism slacks.
- The Clutch Failure
An all-to-common mini repair is with the clutch failing early on before the driver gets many miles on their Mini Cooper, noticeable by a burning smell.
- Water Pooling
Another frequent mini repair is for water pooling up on the floorboard inside the Mini Cooper, causing wiring to short out. This problem shows up around 48,000 miles and is one of the most expensive mini repairs.
- The Power Steering
This mini repair has caused BMW to hand several lawsuits. With no warning, the power steering goes out, for power steering problems in a number of their Mini Cooper models. The issue saw an unexpected, unpredictable loss of power steering while driving, leading to damages and injuries, even car fires.
Is there a way to avoid needing Mini repairs to the transmission?
You should be able to drive your Mini Cooper normally, however, if you are experiencing problems with the transmissions, like hearing noises or it slipping out of gear while going down the road, schedule an inspection with an authorized mechanic sooner than later. By addressing this before it quits working altogether, you can avoid expensive mini repairs to the transmission and more.
What are some common Mini repairs needed for electrical problems?
A car’s electrical system is vital in how the car performs, including the Mini Cooper. When the electrical system malfunctions, it can cause your Mini to shut down completely. When it comes to electrical issues, the number one Mini repair needed is the electric power steering pump.
The electric power steering pump has had several recalls due to loss of power. This issue has caused problems indicated by a loss of power steering fluid and electric cooling fan failure. However, with proper maintenance by a professional Mini Cooper authorized mechanic, this is a mini repair you can avoid.
What is the average cost of Mini repairs?
While we can’t quote exacts, we can tell you that most mini repairs are around $1,000. The cost will be determined by the year of your Mini Cooper and the problem you’re having. If a problem is caught early on, the cost of a mini repair is much less than if you wait until the problem has completely stopped the car from functioning
Are there fuel system issues with the Mini Cooper?
When there is an electrical problem or transmission problem, your Mini Cooper isn’t going anywhere. The same is to be said if the fuel pump fails. Fortunately, there are indicators of the fuel pump failing before it goes completely out. If you’re experiencing any of the following, schedule an appointment with your mechanic can avoid having to call for a tow truck:
- Fuel efficiency: If your Mini Cooper isn’t getting great gas mileage anymore, it could be the fuel pump going bad.
- Misfiring Engine: If the engine in your Mini Cooper is starting to misfire or is stalling out, that can indicate that the fuel pump isn’t getting the fuel to the cylinders.
- Strange Sounds: A grinding or whining sound coming from the fuel tank is probably the fuel pump going out. Call your mechanic for an inspection of possible mini repairs needed.
- Rough Running Engine: If your Mini Cooper fuel pump isn’t getting enough gas to the engine, it can cause the engine to run rough. Call your mechanic for a Mini Cooper repair before the pump completely quits.
Before You Hit The Road
If you’re planning a road trip in your Mini Cooper, just like any other model of car, it is recommended to take it to your mechanic for a thorough check and inspection. They can check all the fluids, and make sure the brake system, cooling system, and suspension are all in working order. Best to take the time to do this, and you can consider the expense of this check-up an investment in your road trip, which will help avoid any emergency Mini repairs!
