8.8

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$3,790
Average Mileage:
55,450 miles
Total Complaints:
5 complaints

Most common solutions:

  1. not sure (2 reports)
  2. replace timing chain (2 reports)
  3. replace engine (1 reports)
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This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Mini dealer.

problem #5

May 302019

Cooper S

  • Automatic transmission
  • 50,952 miles

Very disappointed. I noticed the problem the next day after the car was delivered since this problem is noticeable only when you cold start the engine. It also has a name on the internet, it's called the “Death Rattle Noise”. Go figure.

- Richard S., Saint-Hubert, QC, Canada

problem #4

Sep 262015

Cooper S 1.6L 14

  • Automatic transmission
  • 106,198 miles

My Mini Cooper S had a rattling noise was told it was my timing chain that had to be replaced. Was not covered under warranty or any recalls.

- dianacca, Sun City, CA, US

problem #3

Nov 212015

Cooper S

  • Automatic transmission
  • 52,000 miles

Engine Timing Chain broke leading to total engine replacement.

Car has 52,000 miles.

Initial estimate of repair $9000

Looking for information on the class action lawsuit BMW/Mini just settled

- Chip S., Phoenix, AZ, US

problem #2

May 092013

Cooper S

  • Manual transmission
  • 55,450 miles

I have a 2008 Mini Cooper S, which I bought brand new, that recently had a timing belt break at 55K miles. This has damaged my engine and I am now facing about $7K in expenses. Not to mention that I had it in the shop months before and was not told about this potential risk. This appears to be a common issue among Mini's. At the least, there should have been a recall on this matter. What a huge fail on MINI's part!

- minidrvr82, Indianapolis, IN, US

problem #1

Sep 012010

Cooper S

  • Manual transmission
  • 12,427 miles

So this car had issues with starting. It would knock around and i would have to turn it off and start again. I also noticed a sound like a lawn mower when starting it up. I went to the dealership and they said this was normal and that sometimes it wasn't firing on cylinder one. I also noticed when putting the pedal to the floor in 5th the car would stall out and then start up again. Finally after issues for two years they said it was a defect from mini in the timing chain and it all needs to be replaced. After looking online I have noticed I am not the only one with this issue and several other people have this problem. There is still no solution for this problem besides replaced with the same defective chain. I am glad I am getting rid of this car what a disappointment coming from BMW. I am disgusted they could put out such a pile of crap.

- nexusnathan, Guelph, Ontario, canada