*Median odometer reading when the problem happened, where owners gave one. One complaint can name several problem areas.
Electrical system
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 outâofâpocket for the FRM module replacement even though my VIN is listed under the safety recall. MINI of Murray stated my FRM âfailed,â but admitted they never opened the module, which is required to determine internal moisture intrusion. ⢠The Service Manager stated they based their denial on âcarpet and headliner moisture,â 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…
Jan 26, 2026Electrical system
The vehicle is experiencing repeated failure of the Footwell module (FRM), a known defect acknowledged by MINI/BMW. During the two years I have owned the vehicle, the FRM has required four separate reflashes due to recurring malfunctions. The failure causes loss of proper power window operation, including the passenger window reversing or rolling down unexpectedly, and loss or malfunction of other body electrical functions controlled by the FRM. Headlamps will not turn off, resulting in a dead battery and electrical/intermittent dash light surges. The FRM failed again after a software reflash, which is a documented trigger for FRM internal memory corruption. MINI/BMW issued and Extended…
Jan 7, 2026Engine
Engine issues Engine leaks over heating seal gasket Timing bell Engine missed firing
Dec 15, 2024Air bags
Passenger Airbag sensor is off even when passenger is in the seat and airbag should be on.
Mar 15, 2025Electrical systemFire
On Thursday I was driving my 2010 Mini Cooper S with 75,000 miles on it and there was a total and sudden power outage on the high way. I was able to get to the breakdown lane and had it towed. My mini certified garage ran the computer on it and the car started right up. It was due for an inspection so we did an oil and filter and put on some new tires. No issues were found and car was running well. We picked it up on Friday and Saturday morning after a short drive I was parking and smoke started pouring out from behind the steering wheel. I ran inside a coffee shop for help and they asked if there were flames. I went back out and opened the car door and there was loud noise and the hood was…
May 10, 2025Air bags
The passenger airbag with seat belt icon is always indicating no one is in the seat or not buckled. The alert icon for the lighting is also on and we have replaced bulbs and still wonât work and the windows at times just randomly stops would have to unplug battery for it to reset for the windows only. I just bought this car and have registered since. Was told there was several recalls with the same issue I am experiencing. Please include my car for the proper recalls so I can have a safe reliable vehicle for my family.
Mar 21, 2025Electrical systemFire1 injury
The contact owned a 2010 Mini Cooper S Hartop. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH with the two sunroofs open, the vehicle caught fire. There were flames underneath the rear of the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact opened the hood and threw baking soda on the flames but sustained burns to her hands and face, and medical attention was provided. The neighbors had used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire. The fire department was able to extinguish the fire. The airbags did not deploy. A police report was filed. There was no crash. The vehicle was previously taken to an independent mechanic who replaced the footwell control module. The vehicle was…
Feb 25, 2024 · 130,000 milesEngine
In an attempt to resolve persistent rough running engine issue, mechanic discovered that the timing chain guides failed (broke apart) and that plastic pieces of the guides migrated into the engine oil system.
Jan 3, 2025
Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.
