Recalls

CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
12V008000BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLCfrom 11/14/2006 to 10/27/2010V (Vehicle)88911ODIBMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC01/11/201201/12/2012
Defect SummaryBmw is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 mini cooper s, 2008-2011 mini cooper s clubman, 2009-2011 mini cooper s convertible, 2009-2011 mini cooper jcw, 2009-2011 mini cooper jcw clubman, 2009-2011 cooper jcw convertible, and 2011 cooper s countryman passenger cars manufactured from november 14, 2006, through january 18, 2011. the electric auxiliary water pump that cools the turbocharger has an electronic circuit board that can malfunction and overheat.
Consequence SummaryThe circuit board may smolder which could result in a vehicle fire.
Corrective SummaryBmw will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pump free of charge. the safety recall is expected to begin during february 2012. owners may contact bmw at 1-866-275-6464.
NotesOwners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
08V657000BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLCfrom 11/18/2006 to 07/08/2008V (Vehicle)2845001/15/2009ODIBMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC12/12/200812/12/2008
Defect SummaryBmw is recalling 28,450 my 2007-2008 mini cooper s vehicles. the centrally located tailpipe extension protrudes slightly beyond the rear bumper. it is possible for inadvertent contact to occur with a person's leg.
Consequence SummaryIf the tailpipe extension is hot during inadvertent contact, a burn could occur.
Corrective SummaryDealers will replace the tailpipe with a new shorter tailpipe free of charge. the recall is expected to begin during january 2009. owners may contact bmw at 1-866-275-6464.
NotesCustomers may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .

Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
SIM-17-01-1002/01/201110040741Bmw: engine too hot message is displayed with stored trouble codes. the water pump doesnt power up. *rm09/12/2011
SIM-17-01-1002/01/201110040741Ready09/12/2011
SIM-17-02-0712/01/200710032985Mini: electric cooling fan runs after engine is shut off. after the engine is shut off, the electric cooling fan continues to run. due to the operating strategy of the dme, the electric cooling fan may continue to run after the engine is06/21/2010
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - FAN
SIM-17-02-0712/01/200710032985Mini: electric cooling fan runs after engine is shut off. after the engine is shut off, the electric cooling fan continues to run. due to the operating strategy of the dme, the electric cooling fan may continue to run after the engine is06/21/2010
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - HOSE
SI-M-13-01-0807/01/200810026612Mini: fuel odor from the engine compartment. the high pressure pump (hdp) and/or the low pressure supply hose connection can allow fuel seepage, resulting in the fuel odor. *pe11/18/2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
SI-M51-02-1202/01/201210043724Mini: installation of a heat shield for the bonnet intake air grill. *kb04/24/2012
SIM-13-06-1010/01/201010035884Mini: teileclearing for n14/n18 engine drivability and fuel system. enhanced technical support (teileclearing) process has been developed to help identify the root causes ofcustomer complaints relating to the n14/n18 drivability and fuel03/07/2011
SI-M-11-01-0903/01/200910030669Mini: when replacing the cylinder head cover on a vehicle equipped with the new n14 engine, the cover will look different in appearance. the replacement cover is now equipped with a crankcase ventilation system pressure relief valve. no11/09/2009
SI-M-13-01-0807/01/200810026612Mini: fuel odor from the engine compartment. the high pressure pump (hdp) and/or the low pressure supply hose connection can allow fuel seepage, resulting in the fuel odor. *pe11/18/2008
SI M11 02 0701/01/200810024513Rattle noise from engine. from start of production up to april 11, 2007. with n14 engine. *nj04/21/2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE - TURBO-CHARGER
SI-M-11-03-0807/01/200810026767Mini: turbocharger failure; oil supply line blockage. loss of performance and turbocharger noise. *pe12/15/2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - OTHER FUEL TYPES - TURBO-CHARGER
SI-M-11-03-0807/01/200810026767Mini: turbocharger failure; oil supply line blockage. loss of performance and turbocharger noise. *pe12/15/2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - CRANKCASE (PCV)
SIM-11-07-0811/01/201010037305Bmw: description and specifications of crankcase ventilation system. *rm05/18/2011
SIM-11-07-0811/01/201010037305Ready05/18/2011

Investigations

NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
PE11036BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC10/11/201106/11/2012Engine compartment fire12V161000
 In a january 10, 2012 letter to nhtsa, bmw of north america, llc. (bmw) submitted a defect information report (dir) identifying a defect in the electric auxiliary water pump in approximately 88,911 model year (my) 2007-2011 mini cooper vehicles manufactured from november 14, 2006 through january 18, 2011 (recall 12v-008).according to bmw, the auxiliary water pump on vehicles equipped with 4-cylinder turbocharged engines may overheat.electro-migration can cause the pump electronic circuit board to overheat resulting in smoldering of the water pump. if smoldering occurs, it may lead to an engine compartment or vehicle fire.the pump supplier, pierburg pump technology gmbh, redesigned the pump to address factors that may contribute to circuit board overheating.the redesigned pumps were completely implemented in production vehicles by january 2011.recall 12v-008 was the third recall initiated by bmw to address electric auxiliary water pump fires in vehicles equipped with pierburg pumps.in two october 20, 2011 letters to nhtsa, bmw submitted dirs for similar auxiliary water pump defect conditions in approximately 32,084 my 2008-2011 bmw 5-series, 7-series, x5 and x6 models equipped with 8- and 12-cylinder engines and manufactured from may 2008 through december 2010 (recall 11v-521); and for approximately 589 my 2010 rolls-royce ghost vehicles manufactured from september 2009 through september 2010 (recall 11v-522).in three separate april 5, 2012 letters to nhtsa, bmw submitted amendments to recalls 11v-521, 11v-522 and 12v-008.the amendments all described a common defect condition related to a manufacturing process deviation in a certain production range of the redesigned pierburg water pumps that could result in cracks in the pump housing, which may allow coolant to enter and contact the pump
PE11036BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC10/11/201106/11/2012Engine compartment fire12V008000
 In a january 10, 2012 letter to nhtsa, bmw of north america, llc. (bmw) submitted a defect information report (dir) identifying a defect in the electric auxiliary water pump in approximately 88,911 model year (my) 2007-2011 mini cooper vehicles manufactured from november 14, 2006 through january 18, 2011 (recall 12v-008).according to bmw, the auxiliary water pump on vehicles equipped with 4-cylinder turbocharged engines may overheat.electro-migration can cause the pump electronic circuit board to overheat resulting in smoldering of the water pump. if smoldering occurs, it may lead to an engine compartment or vehicle fire.the pump supplier, pierburg pump technology gmbh, redesigned the pump to address factors that may contribute to circuit board overheating.the redesigned pumps were completely implemented in production vehicles by january 2011.recall 12v-008 was the third recall initiated by bmw to address electric auxiliary water pump fires in vehicles equipped with pierburg pumps.in two october 20, 2011 letters to nhtsa, bmw submitted dirs for similar auxiliary water pump defect conditions in approximately 32,084 my 2008-2011 bmw 5-series, 7-series, x5 and x6 models equipped with 8- and 12-cylinder engines and manufactured from may 2008 through december 2010 (recall 11v-521); and for approximately 589 my 2010 rolls-royce ghost vehicles manufactured from september 2009 through september 2010 (recall 11v-522).in three separate april 5, 2012 letters to nhtsa, bmw submitted amendments to recalls 11v-521, 11v-522 and 12v-008.the amendments all described a common defect condition related to a manufacturing process deviation in a certain production range of the redesigned pierburg water pumps that could result in cracks in the pump housing, which may allow coolant to enter and contact the pump
PE11036BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC10/11/201106/11/2012Engine compartment fire12V166000
 In a january 10, 2012 letter to nhtsa, bmw of north america, llc. (bmw) submitted a defect information report (dir) identifying a defect in the electric auxiliary water pump in approximately 88,911 model year (my) 2007-2011 mini cooper vehicles manufactured from november 14, 2006 through january 18, 2011 (recall 12v-008).according to bmw, the auxiliary water pump on vehicles equipped with 4-cylinder turbocharged engines may overheat.electro-migration can cause the pump electronic circuit board to overheat resulting in smoldering of the water pump. if smoldering occurs, it may lead to an engine compartment or vehicle fire.the pump supplier, pierburg pump technology gmbh, redesigned the pump to address factors that may contribute to circuit board overheating.the redesigned pumps were completely implemented in production vehicles by january 2011.recall 12v-008 was the third recall initiated by bmw to address electric auxiliary water pump fires in vehicles equipped with pierburg pumps.in two october 20, 2011 letters to nhtsa, bmw submitted dirs for similar auxiliary water pump defect conditions in approximately 32,084 my 2008-2011 bmw 5-series, 7-series, x5 and x6 models equipped with 8- and 12-cylinder engines and manufactured from may 2008 through december 2010 (recall 11v-521); and for approximately 589 my 2010 rolls-royce ghost vehicles manufactured from september 2009 through september 2010 (recall 11v-522).in three separate april 5, 2012 letters to nhtsa, bmw submitted amendments to recalls 11v-521, 11v-522 and 12v-008.the amendments all described a common defect condition related to a manufacturing process deviation in a certain production range of the redesigned pierburg water pumps that could result in cracks in the pump housing, which may allow coolant to enter and contact the pump
PE11036BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC10/11/2011Engine compartment fire
 The office of defects investigation (odi) has received 12 complaints of engine compartment fire in model years 2007 and 2008 mini cooper s vehicles, including 5 alleging engulfing fires resulting in a total vehicle loss.eight complaints alleged fires had occurred while the vehicles were parked with the ignition off.the complaints show an apparent increasing trend with most complaints received within the past year.in addition, odi has reviewed field reports submitted as part of early warning reporting data that relate to the alleged defect.a preliminary evaluation has been opened to assess the cause, scope and frequency of the alleged defect.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
PE08031BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC04/28/200808/29/2008EXHAUST PIPE BURNS
 The office of defects investigation (odi) opened this investigation based on three consumer reports.the complainants reported being burned on their legs by the hot exhaust pipe tip while they were removing cargo items from the rear hatch area of their vehicles.the mini cooper s model has dual exhaust pipe tips that are located at the center line of the vehicleunder the rear bumper.the exhaust pipe tips extend beyond the edge of the bumper.odi is upgrading this investigation to engineering analysis ea08-020 based on information provided by bmw in response to odi's pe08-031 information request letter.
EA08020BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC08/29/200801/02/2009EXHAUST PIPE BURNS08V657000
 Bmw will conduct a safety recall (08v-657) on 28,450 mini cooper s vehicles manufactured from november 18, 2006 through july 8, 2008.dealers will install modified exhaust pipe tips that do not extend beyond the rear bumper.the two exhaust pipe tips of the subject vehicles exit the underside of the vehicle at the center of the vehicle and extend beyond the rear bumper.the complainants reported being burned on their legs when they inadvertently touched the exposed hot exhaust pipe tips while removing items of cargo from the rear of their vehicle via the hatch back door.some complainants reported being burned on more than one occasion or that other family members were also burned.the 50 injuries reported in this investigation include significant second degree burns causing blistered and scared skin and one incident resulted in a third degree burn.this investigation also resulted in an initial decision of a defect.for information regarding the initial decision and details of the investigation see documents, inrm-ea08020-31646.pdf (initial decision letter) and inir-ea08020-31648.pdf (initial decision report), in the investigation file.this investigation is closed.

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
07/16/2012280001
 Mini cooper drivers around the u.s. and world have been reporting a strange knocking/rubbing noise coming from the engine compartment for the year 2007+ mini cooper. from the misc dealer repair details it appears to be a issue with the timing chain and tensioner system. it also appears the without being fixed the car will eventually have a timing chain failure and possible motor destruction. on a good note bmw/mini know what the problem is however is failing to come up with or acknowledge a permanent solution. how many customers issues will it take before bmw/mini will issue a full recall? *tr
06/10/200836000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 45 mph, the engine warning indicator began to illuminate as a loud rattling noise emitting from the engine area. the vehicle suddenly stalled and failed to restart. the vehicle was towed to a dealer who was unable to duplicate the problem or determine the cause of failure. the malfunction continued to occur. most recently the vehicle was taken to an independent auto shop and they stated the engine timing tensioner and the high pressure fuel pump would need to be replaced. the technician advised the vehicle be taken to a dealer for repair. the vehicle had not been repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the defect. the approximate failure mileage was 36,000. the vin was unavailable. kmj
06/10/200836000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 45 mph, the engine warning indicator began to illuminate with a loud rattling noise emitting from the engine area. the vehicle suddenly stalled and failed to restart. the vehicle was towed to a dealer who was unable to duplicate the problem or determine the cause of failure. the malfunction continued to occur. most recently the vehicle was taken to an independent auto shop and they stated the engine timing tensioner and the high pressure fuel pump would need to be replaced. the technician advised the vehicle be taken to a dealer for repair. the vehicle had not been repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the defect. the approximate failure mileage was 36,000. the vin was unavailable. js
03/08/201270000
 Timing belt tensioner failed resulting in slack in the timing belt. final result was the timing belt slack contacted plastic chain guards which broke off and lodged inside the engine. after being towed to mini service, they recommended replacing the entire engine. this is a safety issue because the critical timing chain failure led to premature engine failure. there was a strong smell of smoke and i had initial concern that the car was going to catch on fire. i was lucky that the incident did not occur while driving in traffic as i would have been stuck on the road without any power endangering myself and other drivers. mini is well aware of the issue with the timing belt tensioner, but has failed to proactively address the issue. the service manager at mini even has a bag full of bent rods at his desk that he showed me and told me he has had multiple cars come in with the same issue.
06/23/201148715
 6/2011, vehicle began making loud rattling noise after starting up in the morning and during acceleration while driving. took it to local mini service center and was told nothing was wrong with the car, noise was related to type of gas being used (if not chevron or shell, gas could cause noise is what i was told). 4/2011, noise began to get worse. scheduled service appointment with same local service center for may 7th, 2012 (a month out for first appointment) as well as to address a recall issue related to recall campaign 12v-008 electric auxilliary water pump. work not completed because on 4/13/12, check engine light came on while driving and then vehicle stalled out and would not restart. after local repair show diagnosed, failure was found to be with timing chain tensioner failing causing damage to engine. solution=replacement of engine at a cost of $6,300. mileage at time of failure was 62,218. repairs not covered by mini as vehicle is now out of warranty. repairs not completed. recall needs to be issued to have this common and known failure fixed.
03/08/201270000
 Timing belt tensioner failed resulting in slack in the timing belt. final result was the timing belt slack contacted plastic chain guards which broke off and lodged inside the engine. after being towed to mini service, they recommended replacing the entire engine. this is a safety issue because the critical timing chain failure led to premature engine failure. there was a strong smell of smoke and i had initial concern that the car was going to catch on fire. i was lucky that the incident did not occur while driving in traffic as i would have been stuck on the road without any power endangering myself and other drivers. mini is well aware of the issue with the timing belt tensioner, but has failed to proactively address the issue. the service manager at mini even has a bag full of bent rods at his desk that he showed me and told me he has had multiple cars come in with the same issue.
06/23/201148715
 6/2011, vehicle began making loud rattling noise after starting up in the morning and during acceleration while driving. took it to local mini service center and was told nothing was wrong with the car, noise was related to type of gas being used (if not chevron or shell, gas could cause noise is what i was told). 4/2011, noise began to get worse. scheduled service appointment with same local service center for may 7th, 2012 (a month out for first appointment) as well as to address a recall issue related to recall campaign 12v-008 electric auxilliary water pump. work not completed because on 4/13/12, check engine light came on while driving and then vehicle stalled out and would not restart. after local repair show diagnosed, failure was found to be with timing chain tensioner failing causing damage to engine. solution=replacement of engine at a cost of $6,300. mileage at time of failure was 62,218. repairs not covered by mini as vehicle is now out of warranty. repairs not completed. recall needs to be issued to have this common and known failure fixed.
03/08/201270000
 Timing belt tensioner failed resulting in slack in the timing belt. final result was the timing belt slack contacted plastic chain guards which broke off and lodged inside the engine. after being towed to mini service, they recommended replacing the entire engine. this is a safety issue because the critical timing chain failure led to premature engine failure. there was a strong smell of smoke and i had initial concern that the car was going to catch on fire. i was lucky that the incident did not occur while driving in traffic as i would have been stuck on the road without any power endangering myself and other drivers. mini is well aware of the issue with the timing belt tensioner, but has failed to proactively address the issue. the service manager at mini even has a bag full of bent rods at his desk that he showed me and told me he has had multiple cars come in with the same issue.
06/23/201148715
 6/2011, vehicle began making loud rattling noise after starting up in the morning and during acceleration while driving. took it to local mini service center and was told nothing was wrong with the car, noise was related to type of gas being used (if not chevron or shell, gas could cause noise is what i was told). 4/2011, noise began to get worse. scheduled service appointment with same local service center for may 7th, 2012 (a month out for first appointment) as well as to address a recall issue related to recall campaign 12v-008 electric auxilliary water pump. work not completed because on 4/13/12, check engine light came on while driving and then vehicle stalled out and would not restart. after local repair show diagnosed, failure was found to be with timing chain tensioner failing causing damage to engine. solution=replacement of engine at a cost of $6,300. mileage at time of failure was 62,218. repairs not covered by mini as vehicle is now out of warranty. repairs not completed. recall needs to be issued to have this common and known failure fixed.
03/08/201270000
 Timing belt tensioner failed resulting in slack in the timing belt. final result was the timing belt slack contacted plastic chain guards which broke off and lodged inside the engine. after being towed to mini service, they recommended replacing the entire engine. this is a safety issue because the critical timing chain failure led to premature engine failure. there was a strong smell of smoke and i had initial concern that the car was going to catch on fire. i was lucky that the incident did not occur while driving in traffic as i would have been stuck on the road without any power endangering myself and other drivers. mini is well aware of the issue with the timing belt tensioner, but has failed to proactively address the issue. the service manager at mini even has a bag full of bent rods at his desk that he showed me and told me he has had multiple cars come in with the same issue.
06/23/201148715
 6/2011, vehicle began making loud rattling noise after starting up in the morning and during acceleration while driving. took it to local mini service center and was told nothing was wrong with the car, noise was related to type of gas being used (if not chevron or shell, gas could cause noise is what i was told). 4/2011, noise began to get worse. scheduled service appointment with same local service center for may 7th, 2012 (a month out for first appointment) as well as to address a recall issue related to recall campaign 12v-008 electric auxilliary water pump. work not completed because on 4/13/12, check engine light came on while driving and then vehicle stalled out and would not restart. after local repair show diagnosed, failure was found to be with timing chain tensioner failing causing damage to engine. solution=replacement of engine at a cost of $6,300. mileage at time of failure was 62,218. repairs not covered by mini as vehicle is now out of warranty. repairs not completed. recall needs to be issued to have this common and known failure fixed.
03/30/2012
 Vehicle serviced regularly for maintenance. pre-incident zero warning via on-board sensors/indicator. last maintenance performed at 52k. vehicle had 56k miles at time of incident. incident occurred in the morning: timing chain snapped upon start up. due to this failure the engine was destroyed requiring a complete engine replacement. a serious issue requiring a recall.
03/08/201270000
 Timing belt tensioner failed resulting in slack in the timing belt. final result was the timing belt slack contacted plastic chain guards which broke off and lodged inside the engine. after being towed to mini service, they recommended replacing the entire engine. this is a safety issue because the critical timing chain failure led to premature engine failure. there was a strong smell of smoke and i had initial concern that the car was going to catch on fire. i was lucky that the incident did not occur while driving in traffic as i would have been stuck on the road without any power endangering myself and other drivers. mini is well aware of the issue with the timing belt tensioner, but has failed to proactively address the issue. the service manager at mini even has a bag full of bent rods at his desk that he showed me and told me he has had multiple cars come in with the same issue.
06/23/201148715
 6/2011, vehicle began making loud rattling noise after starting up in the morning and during acceleration while driving. took it to local mini service center and was told nothing was wrong with the car, noise was related to type of gas being used (if not chevron or shell, gas could cause noise is what i was told). 4/2011, noise began to get worse. scheduled service appointment with same local service center for may 7th, 2012 (a month out for first appointment) as well as to address a recall issue related to recall campaign 12v-008 electric auxilliary water pump. work not completed because on 4/13/12, check engine light came on while driving and then vehicle stalled out and would not restart. after local repair show diagnosed, failure was found to be with timing chain tensioner failing causing damage to engine. solution=replacement of engine at a cost of $6,300. mileage at time of failure was 62,218. repairs not covered by mini as vehicle is now out of warranty. repairs not completed. recall needs to be issued to have this common and known failure fixed.
03/30/2012
 Vehicle serviced regularly for maintenance. pre-incident zero warning via on-board sensors/indicator. last maintenance performed at 52k. vehicle had 56k miles at time of incident. incident occurred in the morning: timing chain snapped upon start up. due to this failure the engine was destroyed requiring a complete engine replacement. a serious issue requiring a recall.
04/11/201254000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated that the timing chain damaged the engine, rendering it inoperable. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who inspected the engine and advised that the timing chain needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the vin was unknown. the failure mileage was 54,000. kmj
06/23/201148715
 6/2011, vehicle began making loud rattling noise after starting up in the morning and during acceleration while driving. took it to local mini service center and was told nothing was wrong with the car, noise was related to type of gas being used (if not chevron or shell, gas could cause noise is what i was told). 4/2011, noise began to get worse. scheduled service appointment with same local service center for may 7th, 2012 (a month out for first appointment) as well as to address a recall issue related to recall campaign 12v-008 electric auxilliary water pump. work not completed because on 4/13/12, check engine light came on while driving and then vehicle stalled out and would not restart. after local repair show diagnosed, failure was found to be with timing chain tensioner failing causing damage to engine. solution=replacement of engine at a cost of $6,300. mileage at time of failure was 62,218. repairs not covered by mini as vehicle is now out of warranty. repairs not completed. recall needs to be issued to have this common and known failure fixed.
03/30/2012
 Vehicle serviced regularly for maintenance. pre-incident zero warning via on-board sensors/indicator. last maintenance performed at 52k. vehicle had 56k miles at time of incident. incident occurred in the morning: timing chain snapped upon start up. due to this failure the engine was destroyed requiring a complete engine replacement. a serious issue requiring a recall.
03/12/201234500
 I brought my mini in for the electrial water pump recall issue and i explained there was a ticking sound coming from the engine compartment and to please let me know if there were any issues. they called and said it was the timing chain and the cost was substantial. this is a large problem with this vehicle as i now know after seeing numerous complaints. please have a recall issued for this problem and not have other owners have to pay for a service that is a known problem and very dangerous to occupants and other drivers since this can cause a major accident and the potential to harm more than the vehicle operator.
03/30/2012
 Vehicle serviced regularly for maintenance. pre-incident zero warning via on-board sensors/indicator. last maintenance performed at 52k. vehicle had 56k miles at time of incident. incident occurred in the morning: timing chain snapped upon start up. due to this failure the engine was destroyed requiring a complete engine replacement. a serious issue requiring a recall.
04/11/201254000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated that the timing chain damaged the engine, rendering it inoperable. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who inspected the engine and advised that the timing chain needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the vin was unknown. the failure mileage was 54,000. kmj
02/01/201258000
 On cold starts, it has become a documented issue that 07-11 s models have an issue with a horrible rattle upon starting. this can become a catastrophic failure for many people who have experienced this issue. this is due to a tensioning mechanism which allows too much travel in the timing chain. this can allow the chain to jump or break which can cause a complete engine failure. the fix involves relplacement of the timing chain and a redesigned tensioner. bmw acknowledges this issue, but will not help out mini owners even at a reduced rate. with just a short search on the internet, it is easy to find thousands of owners who have experienced this issue and are asking for help to resolve the issue, with no luck.
03/12/201234500
 I brought my mini in for the electrial water pump recall issue and i explained there was a ticking sound coming from the engine compartment and to please let me know if there were any issues. they called and said it was the timing chain and the cost was substantial. this is a large problem with this vehicle as i now know after seeing numerous complaints. please have a recall issued for this problem and not have other owners have to pay for a service that is a known problem and very dangerous to occupants and other drivers since this can cause a major accident and the potential to harm more than the vehicle operator.
03/30/2012
 Vehicle serviced regularly for maintenance. pre-incident zero warning via on-board sensors/indicator. last maintenance performed at 52k. vehicle had 56k miles at time of incident. incident occurred in the morning: timing chain snapped upon start up. due to this failure the engine was destroyed requiring a complete engine replacement. a serious issue requiring a recall.
04/11/201254000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated the timing chain damaged his engine causing it to be inoperable. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who inspected the engine and stated the timing chain needed to be replace. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified. the vin was unknown the failure mileage was 54,000. mw
02/01/201258000
 On cold starts, it has become a documented issue that 07-11 s models have an issue with a horrible rattle upon starting. this can become a catastrophic failure for many people who have experienced this issue. this is due to a tensioning mechanism which allows too much travel in the timing chain. this can allow the chain to jump or break which can cause a complete engine failure. the fix involves relplacement of the timing chain and a redesigned tensioner. bmw acknowledges this issue, but will not help out mini owners even at a reduced rate. with just a short search on the internet, it is easy to find thousands of owners who have experienced this issue and are asking for help to resolve the issue, with no luck.
03/12/201234500
 I brought my mini in for the electrial water pump recall issue and i explained there was a ticking sound coming from the engine compartment and to please let me know if there were any issues. they called and said it was the timing chain and the cost was substantial. this is a large problem with this vehicle as i now know after seeing numerous complaints. please have a recall issued for this problem and not have other owners have to pay for a service that is a known problem and very dangerous to occupants and other drivers since this can cause a major accident and the potential to harm more than the vehicle operator.
04/11/201254000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated the timing chain damaged his engine causing it to be inoperable. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who inspected the engine and stated the timing chain needed to be replace. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified. the vin was unknown the failure mileage was 54,000. mw
02/01/201258000
 On cold starts, it has become a documented issue that 07-11 s models have an issue with a horrible rattle upon starting. this can become a catastrophic failure for many people who have experienced this issue. this is due to a tensioning mechanism which allows too much travel in the timing chain. this can allow the chain to jump or break which can cause a complete engine failure. the fix involves relplacement of the timing chain and a redesigned tensioner. bmw acknowledges this issue, but will not help out mini owners even at a reduced rate. with just a short search on the internet, it is easy to find thousands of owners who have experienced this issue and are asking for help to resolve the issue, with no luck.
03/12/201234500
 I brought my mini in for the electrial water pump recall issue and i explained there was a ticking sound coming from the engine compartment and to please let me know if there were any issues. they called and said it was the timing chain and the cost was substantial. this is a large problem with this vehicle as i now know after seeing numerous complaints. please have a recall issued for this problem and not have other owners have to pay for a service that is a known problem and very dangerous to occupants and other drivers since this can cause a major accident and the potential to harm more than the vehicle operator.
02/01/201258000
 On cold starts, it has become a documented issue that 07-11 s models have an issue with a horrible rattle upon starting. this can become a catastrophic failure for many people who have experienced this issue. this is due to a tensioning mechanism which allows too much travel in the timing chain. this can allow the chain to jump or break which can cause a complete engine failure. the fix involves relplacement of the timing chain and a redesigned tensioner. bmw acknowledges this issue, but will not help out mini owners even at a reduced rate. with just a short search on the internet, it is easy to find thousands of owners who have experienced this issue and are asking for help to resolve the issue, with no luck.
03/12/201234500
 I brought my mini in for the electrial water pump recall issue and i explained there was a ticking sound coming from the engine compartment and to please let me know if there were any issues. they called and said it was the timing chain and the cost was substantial. this is a large problem with this vehicle as i now know after seeing numerous complaints. please have a recall issued for this problem and not have other owners have to pay for a service that is a known problem and very dangerous to occupants and other drivers since this can cause a major accident and the potential to harm more than the vehicle operator.
02/13/201280000
 Timing chain broke at 80000k after replacing tensioner at 60000k from oil leak. also replaced water pump & thermostat due to car overheating. now at 82000k have a burnt out valve. big problems on my mini cooper s '07.
03/22/201234481
 Tl- the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning. the dealer diagnosed the failure and determined that the timing chain was separated from the vehicle. the manufacturer was notified of the failure, but denied any assistance with repairs to the vehicle. the vehicle was repaired. the vin was unavailable. the failure and the current mileage was 34,481. kmj
03/22/201234481
 Tl- the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated that the vehicle stalled while driving on the highway. the dealer diagnosed the failure and determined that the timing chain separated from the vehicle. the manufacturer was notified, but denied any assistance with repair to the failure. the vehicle was repaired. the failure and current mileage was 34, 481. the vin was unavailable. nw
03/16/201259000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. while driving 15 mph, the contact noticed smoke coming from under the hood of the vehicle. the contact called the fire department who was able to extinguish the fire. the dealer serviced the vehicle under nhtsa campaign id number: 12v008000 (engine and engine cooling) one day prior to the failure. the remedy however, failed to prevent the vehicle fire. the manufacturer had not been notified of the failure. the vehicle was destroyed. a police report was filed. the current and the failure mileages were 59,000.
03/16/201259000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. while driving 15 mph, the contact noticed smoke coming from under the hood of the vehicle. the contact called the fire department who was able to extinguish the fire. the dealer serviced the vehicle under nhtsa campaign id number: 12v008000 (engine and engine cooling) one day prior to the failure. the remedy however, failed to prevent the vehicle fire. the manufacturer had not been notified of the failure. the vehicle was destroyed. a police report was filed. the current and the failure mileages were 59,000. kmj
03/16/201259000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. while driving 15 mph, the contact noticed smoke coming from underneath the hood of the vehicle when he pulled over to the side of the road. the fire department was notified and extinguished the fire. the dealer performed nhtsa campaign id number: 12v008000 ( engine and engine cooling) one day prior. this remedy failed to prevent the vehicle fire. the manufacturer had not been notified of the failure. the current and the failure mileages were 59,000. the vehicle was destroyed. a police report was taken. bw
09/13/201165000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated that the vehicle would lose power abnormally and would sporadically stall. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was determined that the spark plugs failed. the failure recurred and the contact discovered that the failure was caused by a failure with the timing chain assembly. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileages were 65,000.
09/13/201165000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated that the vehicle would lose power abnormally and would sporadically stall. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was determined that the spark plugs failed. the failure recurred and the contact discovered that the failure was caused by a failure with the timing chain assembly. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileages were 65,000. kmj
09/13/2011
 Tl- the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated the timing chain assembly failed. the contact stated the vehicle would run with have of its regular power or not run at all when the failure occurred. the first time the vehicle was taken to the dealer, it was determined the spraks plugs failed, but the actual failure was the timing chain assembly. the failure mileage and current mileages were 65,000.rl
05/09/201161241
 Engine made excessive rattling on cold start up. took to bmw global imports and they told me that the timing chain tensioner, rails, and chain had to be replaced. the dealership charged me $2,031.97. as i drove the car off the lot i noted that the engine did not feel nearly as smooth as before and was noisier. brought the car in twice for them to fix. on the second trip to dealership, 7/18/11, they told me the water pump needed replaced. they charged me $980.04 though a typical charge of for this job was $1315.51. the car to this day at >70,000 still does not feel smooth and continues to sound loud. obviously this is due to the band aid fix approach for the timing chain. i printed out all the complaints from nhtsa database regarding the noisey cold start of 2007 mini cooper s due to timing chain defect, 33 out of 110 (now 34). this is a pattern of defective engineering and not a randon quality problem that deserves a recall.
10/01/20075800
 Vehicle produces loud metallic sounds from the left side of the engine on cold start. mini usa has repeatedly stated this is okay, however now at 25000 miles the noise is constant and loud. reading data from other mini owners this problem is now extremely common on all mini coopers with the 1.6l produced after 2007. mini has quietly replaced numerous belt tensioners to fix this problem but refuses to admit this is a large issue over the entire fleet of vehicles. issue results in a $3-4k labor bill to repair.
05/09/201161241
 Engine made excessive rattling on cold start up. took to bmw global imports and they told me that the timing chain tensioner, rails, and chain had to be replaced. the dealership charged me $2,031.97. as i drove the car off the lot i noted that the engine did not feel nearly as smooth as before and was noisier. brought the car in twice for them to fix. on the second trip to dealership, 7/18/11, they told me the water pump needed replaced. they charged me $980.04 though a typical charge of for this job was $1315.51. the car to this day at >70,000 still does not feel smooth and continues to sound loud. obviously this is due to the band aid fix approach for the timing chain. i printed out all the complaints from nhtsa database regarding the noisey cold start of 2007 mini cooper s due to timing chain defect, 33 out of 110 (now 34). this is a pattern of defective engineering and not a randon quality problem that deserves a recall.
10/01/20075800
 Vehicle produces loud metallic sounds from the left side of the engine on cold start. mini usa has repeatedly stated this is okay, however now at 25000 miles the noise is constant and loud. reading data from other mini owners this problem is now extremely common on all mini coopers with the 1.6l produced after 2007. mini has quietly replaced numerous belt tensioners to fix this problem but refuses to admit this is a large issue over the entire fleet of vehicles. issue results in a $3-4k labor bill to repair.
05/09/201161241
 Engine made excessive rattling on cold start up. took to bmw global imports and they told me that the timing chain tensioner, rails, and chain had to be replaced. the dealership charged me $2,031.97. as i drove the car off the lot i noted that the engine did not feel nearly as smooth as before and was noisier. brought the car in twice for them to fix. on the second trip to dealership, 7/18/11, they told me the water pump needed replaced. they charged me $980.04 though a typical charge of for this job was $1315.51. the car to this day at >70,000 still does not feel smooth and continues to sound loud. obviously this is due to the band aid fix approach for the timing chain. i printed out all the complaints from nhtsa database regarding the noisey cold start of 2007 mini cooper s due to timing chain defect, 33 out of 110 (now 34). this is a pattern of defective engineering and not a randon quality problem that deserves a recall.
10/01/20075800
 Vehicle produces loud metallic sounds from the left side of the engine on cold start. mini usa has repeatedly stated this is okay, however now at 25000 miles the noise is constant and loud. reading data from other mini owners this problem is now extremely common on all mini coopers with the 1.6l produced after 2007. mini has quietly replaced numerous belt tensioners to fix this problem but refuses to admit this is a large issue over the entire fleet of vehicles. issue results in a $3-4k labor bill to repair.
04/11/201165394
 Turbo oil supply line from engine to turbo leaking excessive oil requiring replacement. poor engineering design of compression fitting led to premature failure. continued operation of vehicle with this condition would result in catastrophic engine and or engine turbo failure.
01/01/201274000
 While driving in heavy traffic following extended highway speed, stopped at traffic light and engine died with no warning and would not restart. car had to be towed a considerable distance to original dealership. learned that the vacuum pump seized / locked up, causing a chain reaction of catastrophic results that totally destroyed engine. car needs complete new engine at 74,000 miles (out of warranty)and mini usa attitude is that such engine failure is not their responsibility even though this particular mini was impeccably maintained beyond mini servcie requirements, but to no avail as engine blew at a very young 74,000 miles of age and there are repeated instances of same engine failure on internet bmw/mini blogs. note: this catastrophic damage follows last year's large out of warranty expense of replacing the entire electronic steering lock system as vehicle could not be driven safely and again mini felt no responsibility for equipment failure even though the problem was subsequently acknowledged by the fact that electronic steering lock is no longer installed in new mini coopers!
04/11/201165394
 Turbo oil supply line from engine to turbo leaking excessive oil requiring replacement. poor engineering design of compression fitting led to premature failure. continued operation of vehicle with this condition would result in catastrophic engine and or engine turbo failure.
01/01/201274000
 While driving in heavy traffic following extended highway speed, stopped at traffic light and engine died with no warning and would not restart. car had to be towed a considerable distance to original dealership. learned that the vacuum pump seized / locked up, causing a chain reaction of catastrophic results that totally destroyed engine. car needs complete new engine at 74,000 miles (out of warranty)and mini usa attitude is that such engine failure is not their responsibility even though this particular mini was impeccably maintained beyond mini servcie requirements, but to no avail as engine blew at a very young 74,000 miles of age and there are repeated instances of same engine failure on internet bmw/mini blogs. note: this catastrophic damage follows last year's large out of warranty expense of replacing the entire electronic steering lock system as vehicle could not be driven safely and again mini felt no responsibility for equipment failure even though the problem was subsequently acknowledged by the fact that electronic steering lock is no longer installed in new mini coopers!
04/11/201165394
 Turbo oil supply line from engine to turbo leaking excessive oil requiring replacement. poor engineering design of compression fitting led to premature failure. continued operation of vehicle with this condition would result in catastrophic engine and or engine turbo failure.
01/01/201274000
 While driving in heavy traffic following extended highway speed, stopped at traffic light and engine died with no warning and would not restart. car had to be towed a considerable distance to original dealership. learned that the vacuum pump seized / locked up, causing a chain reaction of catastrophic results that totally destroyed engine. car needs complete new engine at 74,000 miles (out of warranty)and mini usa attitude is that such engine failure is not their responsibility even though this particular mini was impeccably maintained beyond mini servcie requirements, but to no avail as engine blew at a very young 74,000 miles of age and there are repeated instances of same engine failure on internet bmw/mini blogs. note: this catastrophic damage follows last year's large out of warranty expense of replacing the entire electronic steering lock system as vehicle could not be driven safely and again mini felt no responsibility for equipment failure even though the problem was subsequently acknowledged by the fact that electronic steering lock is no longer installed in new mini coopers!
04/11/201165394
 Turbo oil supply line from engine to turbo leaking excessive oil requiring replacement. poor engineering design of compression fitting led to premature failure. continued operation of vehicle with this condition would result in catastrophic engine and or engine turbo failure.
01/01/201274000
 While driving in heavy traffic following extended highway speed, stopped at traffic light and engine died with no warning and would not restart. car had to be towed a considerable distance to original dealership. learned that the vacuum pump seized / locked up, causing a chain reaction of catastrophic results that totally destroyed engine. car needs complete new engine at 74,000 miles (out of warranty)and mini usa attitude is that such engine failure is not their responsibility even though this particular mini was impeccably maintained beyond mini servcie requirements, but to no avail as engine blew at a very young 74,000 miles of age and there are repeated instances of same engine failure on internet bmw/mini blogs. note: this catastrophic damage follows last year's large out of warranty expense of replacing the entire electronic steering lock system as vehicle could not be driven safely and again mini felt no responsibility for equipment failure even though the problem was subsequently acknowledged by the fact that electronic steering lock is no longer installed in new mini coopers!
12/25/201040000
 As a background, on november 25, 2011, i delivered the car, a 2007 mini cooper s to a mini dealership where i always have it serviced. the reason i brought it in for service was due to the overheating light and engine light being triggered while driving. when i picked up the car, the service advisor assured me that it was in complete working order and the repairs made the car as good as new. on that november 25th, visit, i had paid $1,817.40 for a new water pump, thermostat, spark plugs, and water pipe replacement despite the fact they are commonly 100,000-mile services. my car has less than 41,000 miles. 10 days after my car was serviced, the same overheating light and engine light came on again. in response to this repeated issue, on december 11, 2011, i spoke with the service advisor who told me to bring the vehicle back to the mini dealership. during this second visit, i brought the vehicle to the mini dealership in order to attempt to resolve the overheating issue for a second time. during this second visit, the mini dealership replaced the fuel pump and flushed the radiator several times, again, in an attempt to solve the overheating issue. when i picked up the car, the service consultant assured me that it was in complete working order and the repairs made the car as good as new. this was the second time that i have been assured that this car was in proper working order. now, for the third time in the past 24 days, the overheating light and engine light has came on again while i was driving on december 18, 2011. frustrated, at the least, i promptly returned the car for further service by your dealership. i was shocked when the service advisor contacted me on december 21, 2011 to inform me that an engine replacement was required. the car has fewer than 41,000 miles and has only ever been serviced by licensed mini dealerships.
12/19/201169540
 I have had previous issues with the panoramic sunroof, i had to get it replaced. then i had issues with the chain and chain tensioner and had to get that replaced too. now the steerinig has failed on me, i can't start the car or even move the steering wheel. my steering is locked now; i had the car running, everything seemed to run fine and the steering worked fine. once i shut the car off i couldnt start the car back up and my steering locked up. i had to get my car towed home. i wish bmw would do some kind of a recall on this car so we wouldn't have to pay so much money out of our own pockets!
12/25/201040000
 As a background, on november 25, 2011, i delivered the car, a 2007 mini cooper s to a mini dealership where i always have it serviced. the reason i brought it in for service was due to the overheating light and engine light being triggered while driving. when i picked up the car, the service advisor assured me that it was in complete working order and the repairs made the car as good as new. on that november 25th, visit, i had paid $1,817.40 for a new water pump, thermostat, spark plugs, and water pipe replacement despite the fact they are commonly 100,000-mile services. my car has less than 41,000 miles. 10 days after my car was serviced, the same overheating light and engine light came on again. in response to this repeated issue, on december 11, 2011, i spoke with the service advisor who told me to bring the vehicle back to the mini dealership. during this second visit, i brought the vehicle to the mini dealership in order to attempt to resolve the overheating issue for a second time. during this second visit, the mini dealership replaced the fuel pump and flushed the radiator several times, again, in an attempt to solve the overheating issue. when i picked up the car, the service consultant assured me that it was in complete working order and the repairs made the car as good as new. this was the second time that i have been assured that this car was in proper working order. now, for the third time in the past 24 days, the overheating light and engine light has came on again while i was driving on december 18, 2011. frustrated, at the least, i promptly returned the car for further service by your dealership. i was shocked when the service advisor contacted me on december 21, 2011 to inform me that an engine replacement was required. the car has fewer than 41,000 miles and has only ever been serviced by licensed mini dealerships.
12/19/201169540
 I have had previous issues with the panoramic sunroof, i had to get it replaced. then i had issues with the chain and chain tensioner and had to get that replaced too. now the steerinig has failed on me, i can't start the car or even move the steering wheel. my steering is locked now; i had the car running, everything seemed to run fine and the steering worked fine. once i shut the car off i couldnt start the car back up and my steering locked up. i had to get my car towed home. i wish bmw would do some kind of a recall on this car so we wouldn't have to pay so much money out of our own pockets!
12/25/201040000
 As a background, on november 25, 2011, i delivered the car, a 2007 mini cooper s to a mini dealership where i always have it serviced. the reason i brought it in for service was due to the overheating light and engine light being triggered while driving. when i picked up the car, the service advisor assured me that it was in complete working order and the repairs made the car as good as new. on that november 25th, visit, i had paid $1,817.40 for a new water pump, thermostat, spark plugs, and water pipe replacement despite the fact they are commonly 100,000-mile services. my car has less than 41,000 miles. 10 days after my car was serviced, the same overheating light and engine light came on again. in response to this repeated issue, on december 11, 2011, i spoke with the service advisor who told me to bring the vehicle back to the mini dealership. during this second visit, i brought the vehicle to the mini dealership in order to attempt to resolve the overheating issue for a second time. during this second visit, the mini dealership replaced the fuel pump and flushed the radiator several times, again, in an attempt to solve the overheating issue. when i picked up the car, the service consultant assured me that it was in complete working order and the repairs made the car as good as new. this was the second time that i have been assured that this car was in proper working order. now, for the third time in the past 24 days, the overheating light and engine light has came on again while i was driving on december 18, 2011. frustrated, at the least, i promptly returned the car for further service by your dealership. i was shocked when the service advisor contacted me on december 21, 2011 to inform me that an engine replacement was required. the car has fewer than 41,000 miles and has only ever been serviced by licensed mini dealerships.
12/19/201169540
 I have had previous issues with the panoramic sunroof, i had to get it replaced. then i had issues with the chain and chain tensioner and had to get that replaced too. now the steerinig has failed on me, i can't start the car or even move the steering wheel. my steering is locked now; i had the car running, everything seemed to run fine and the steering worked fine. once i shut the car off i couldnt start the car back up and my steering locked up. i had to get my car towed home. i wish bmw would do some kind of a recall on this car so we wouldn't have to pay so much money out of our own pockets!
11/02/201137720
 The engine began to make a large rattling noise and the check engine light eventually came on. i stopped the car and checked the oil to see if it was low and discovered that i was not able to get the dip stick back in. at this point i called a tow truck and took it to a local mechanic because there isn't a mini dealer within 100 miles of my location. turns out it was the timing chain tensioner which is a common problem for the cooper s and mini has released three fixes and claim the latest tsb will fix the problem. my car has less than 40,000 miles and i had to spend $1,700 dollars for a $26 dollar part that was faulty to begin with. mini knew they had a problem and tried to fix it but failed on two separate occasions there's no telling how long this new fix will hold up. not to mention my car is still louder than it use to be before the problem and it sounds like a diesel engine at idle. this noise doesn't give me confidence that the latest fix will last and mini needs to seriously take a look at the problem and send out a recall before the timing chains start causing life threatening problems.
11/12/201130791
 After a couple days of hearing some rattling under the hood after cold starts, my engine light came on. i took it to the dealer and the mechanic said that a faulty tensioner had caused the timing chain to stretch out excessively and if it's not fixed, my engine could seize up at any time.. it's a $2,500 repair. this is ridiculous, considering the car is only 4 years old and has just 30,000 miles on it. i did some research and found that many many owners of my same year, make and model are reporting the exact same problem. it is a known issue, yet mini is doing nothing about it. i called mini cooper to ask about it and they only grudgingly took my complaint. they said they will not do a recall unless the federal government demands it, so i'm asking you to do so. i think this is a serious safety issue (who knows when the engine could seize up) and it seems to be so widely reported, i can't believe mini is ignoring it. i would think this is about to be a very serious problem, considering other 2007's are just starting to have these problems. please investigate and make mini do the right thing.
11/10/201152000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated that there was an extremely abnormal odor that entered the cabin of the vehicle, similar to eggs. the vehicle was maneuvered off the roadway and upon further inspection, he found a small fire had erupted under the hood. the fire department was not called. the contact called the manufacturer and filed a complaint. the manufacturer suggested taking the vehicle to the dealer for inspection and possible repairs. the failure mileage was 52,000. the vin was not available. kmj
11/10/201152000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated after the smell of eggs enter the vehicle the contact pulled over, shut the vehicle and checked the engine. the contact notice a small fire in the engine. the contact did not call the fire department. the contact called the manufacturer and filed a complaint. the manufacturer suggested to take the vehicle to the dealer. the failure mileage was 52,000. jo
10/02/201176112
 Oil return line exiting turbocharger leaks engine oil, which drips directly onto hot engine exhaust downpipe, this leads to smoke from the engine bay and will eventually cause a fire if not remedied promptly. bmw should quickly recall and repair this design defect before a lot of private property goes up in flames.
10/12/201129000
 As i approached the street on where i live, the car started to severely shake and jerk , as if power was not going to the engine. i was able to park it on my driveway, but the next morning, the car had to be towed to the dealer because it would not start. when the car arrived at the dealer after being towed in, the car could not be jump-started, even after several attempts. two weeks prior, i had brought my car in for service because the check engine light came on. they replaced the timing chain and found several misfire faults, which were supposedly corrected. the cylinder head was removed and disassembled and found to have carbon build up. the intake valves and exhaust valves were cleaned. since the incident, the car is still at the dealer. an extended road test is scheduled to be performed within these next few days. no word on what has caused the car's engine to die.
10/02/201176112
 Oil return line exiting turbocharger leaks engine oil, which drips directly onto hot engine exhaust downpipe, this leads to smoke from the engine bay and will eventually cause a fire if not remedied promptly. bmw should quickly recall and repair this design defect before a lot of private property goes up in flames.
10/12/201129000
 As i approached the street on where i live, the car started to severely shake and jerk , as if power was not going to the engine. i was able to park it on my driveway, but the next morning, the car had to be towed to the dealer because it would not start. when the car arrived at the dealer after being towed in, the car could not be jump-started, even after several attempts. two weeks prior, i had brought my car in for service because the check engine light came on. they replaced the timing chain and found several misfire faults, which were supposedly corrected. the cylinder head was removed and disassembled and found to have carbon build up. the intake valves and exhaust valves were cleaned. since the incident, the car is still at the dealer. an extended road test is scheduled to be performed within these next few days. no word on what has caused the car's engine to die.
10/02/201176112
 Oil return line exiting turbocharger leaks engine oil, which drips directly onto hot engine exhaust downpipe, this leads to smoke from the engine bay and will eventually cause a fire if not remedied promptly. bmw should quickly recall and repair this design defect before a lot of private property goes up in flames.
10/12/201129000
 As i approached the street on where i live, the car started to severely shake and jerk , as if power was not going to the engine. i was able to park it on my driveway, but the next morning, the car had to be towed to the dealer because it would not start. when the car arrived at the dealer after being towed in, the car could not be jump-started, even after several attempts. two weeks prior, i had brought my car in for service because the check engine light came on. they replaced the timing chain and found several misfire faults, which were supposedly corrected. the cylinder head was removed and disassembled and found to have carbon build up. the intake valves and exhaust valves were cleaned. since the incident, the car is still at the dealer. an extended road test is scheduled to be performed within these next few days. no word on what has caused the car's engine to die.
09/07/201135464
 I almost had a timing chain/tensioner failure. took my '07 mcs into the mini dealer for its 4 year service. they found that the 'timing chain tensioner is weak and needs to be replaced' or 'tensioner worn and causing excessive chain slack and chain noise'. i bought my mini new, it now has 35464 miles and this should fall into the category as 'unusual'. this should not be a part that wears out or suffers failure with so few miles. as i checked out this failure on the web i quickly found out that this is not unusual but is happening quite frequently. i missed this being covered under the warranty by 2 weeks. my lose? maybe; maybe not, at least i did not destroy the engine. according to the service department paperwork they replaced the chain tensioner with an updated 551 tensioner, p/n: 11 31 7 607 551, @ $26.21 ($146 for installation). it appears that mini/bmw knows about the problem and redesigned the part to prevent problems in the future, hopefully. if this is true why don't they recall the cars and just take care of it. had i had the bad luck of destroying the engine my opinion on all their products would have drastically changed. i also own a '11 bmw 335xi.
06/15/201181000
 2007 mini cooper s: cold start rattle had been an on-again, off-again problem, but since i'd had the timing chain tensioner changed while the car was still under warranty, i didn't make the connection. at 81,000 miles, i was driving when the red oil light came on. this was the first and only indication of a problem. i stopped at the next gas station, got some synthetic oil, and put in 2 quarts. i continued on my way, but the oil light had not gone off. within about 1-2 miles, as i was entering a highway, the car began making a very loud rattling noise and then stalled. i was able to get to the shoulder. i called mini roadside assistance, but after about 15 mins. on the phone, they finally figured out that they were not authorized to tow off this interstate. i got an authorized towing co. to come, and i let them tow it to their local garage. the next day they told me that the engine had ceased and would need to be replaced. the following day i had the car towed to prestige mini to determine if this was, in fact, what had happened. they diagnosed the same thing, said there was no way to know the cause, and quoted me $6400 to replace the engine (which they ulitmately brought down to $5600). at 81k miles, there is no reason this engine should have ceased. plus, i had no warning that there was something wrong with the car--no check engine light, no check oil light until it was too late. based on what i've read, now about the 2007 mini, i am certain this was defect related. how do i prove that? i'm at the mercy of the dealership.
06/08/201164000
 Have had problems with my mini since it was new. in nov. of 2010 the chain tensioner was finally changed after many complaints of the noise. on mon.6-6-11 my check engine light came on. called the dealer & set up an appointment for that sat 6-11. on wed. 6-8 my car died with no warning. no computer lights came on. had to tow it to the mini dealer on sat.6-11. they told me it was the vacuum pump causing major catastrophic engine failure. my engine only had a quart of oil and that was why it went out. i had documentation of my oil change. it still had 3,000m to go before it needed to be changed. was also checked 2 wks before this incident and it was fine. i am now needing a new engine at a cost of 6,087. the regional team at mini customer service decided there would be no assistance because i let it run out of oil, which is not true. they said there was no appeal process, their decision was final. my car has 64k miles on it. the chain tensioners and vacuum pumps are known failures but mini refuses to acknowledge that there is a problem. easier to blame the consumer. a vehicle that costs nearly 30k dollars should not have an engine failure at 64k miles. there are countless complaints out there. all you need to do is check the web. mini should step up and do the right thing. this could have caused a major crash with fatalities if i had been traveling on the interstate highway which i do every day
06/08/201150000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated that the vehicle would not start in cold weather until after three to four attempts. there were also noticed rattling noises coming from the engine while driving at various speeds. on another occasion, the vehicle stalled while driving 70 mph without any warning. the vehicle was then inspected by a dealer and they advised her that she needed to replace the vacuum pump, timing chains and the high pressure pump. each part was replaced within one year of the failure. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was approximately 50,000. the vin was unavailable.
06/08/201150000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. the contact stated that when trying to start her vehicle in cold weather it's take 3 to 4 attempts. she also noticed rattling noises coming from the engine while driving at various speeds. on another occasion the vehicle actually stalled while driving at highway speeds without any warning. the vehicle was then inspected by a dealer and they advised her on different occasions that she needed to replace the vaccumm pump, timing chains, and the high pressure pump. each part was replaced within a years time from each failure. the manufacturer has not been contacted. the failure mileage was approximately 50,000. the vin was unavailable. tb
02/15/201164000
 2007 mini cooper s, timing chain broke at 64k miles. there are countless complaints of this problem all over the web, we need to force mini to issue a recall. vehicle was properly maintained prior to failure. this is a chain, not a belt. more information about similar complaints can be found here: http://www.minicooperspeed.com/mini-cooper-cold-start-knocking-noise-issue-2007/
10/10/201047000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 40 mph, the engine warning indicator illuminated and an extremely loud noise sounded from the engine. the contact continued driving, and the engine performed as though it were attempting to stall. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where they diagnosed that the timing chain failed. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 47,000.
10/10/201047000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 40 mph, the engine warning indicator illuminated and an extremely loud noise sounded from the engine. the contact continued driving, and the engine performed as though it would shut off; although the failure did not occur. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where they diagnosed that the timing chain failed. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage approximately 47,000. js
11/10/201055000
 The check engine light has come on at 55k miles and i have brought the vehicle in to get checked at the dealer. the service department reports that the timing chain is beginning to fail and needs to be replaced, along with a water pump leak. the timing chain is a known failure and still has no recall.
02/10/201038000
 R56 mcs mini 2007 - bought used in sept 09 had the cold start rattle but didn't know what it was at the time. engine light came on at 38,000 dealer replaced timing chain . on the way home vacuum pump seized causing damage to the values. dealer sent pictures to mini and the decision was made to replace the engine with a new one.
02/05/2010260001
 2007 mini cooper s. after 26000 miles i have a what appears to be a rattling engine when starting the engine from a cold start (sitting overnight). so this happens every morning. i live in florida with relatively warm temperatures. i took it to the dealer and they claim the diesel engine sound coming out of the car is normal. i didn't by the car this way. i have found various forums and youtube videos of this problem. please help. *tr
10/19/2009361241
 2007 mini cooper s spontaneously caught fire while turned off and parked in my garage. i had traveled less than two miles when i parked the car. fire started under the hood and completely totaled the car by the time the fire department arrived and put it out. *tr
02/26/2009120001
 Very noisy clatter when starting engine when cold. engine sounds like a diesel when cold. goes away after a couple of minutes. dealer says its normal ??? problem occurs every morning. *tr
01/06/2009165001
 Engine exhibits harsh noise during startup 50% of the time after minimum of 8 hr shutdown or if parked nose low. the issue is a defective timing chain tensioner which the dealer won't replace because 1) they haven't received an effective repair kit from bmw or 2) try to explain it away with the excuse that this timing chain metal-on-metal rattle is normal. an increasing world-wide number of vehicles of this make, model, and engine have experienced catastrophic low mileage engine failures because of dealer inaction and subsequent timing chain failure. *tr
07/16/200880001
 Car clunks while going over rough roads. as per diagnosis from mini dealership, the transmission motor mount is too small and does not dampen shock from road bumps or acceleration torque and was replaced. *tr
10/15/200850001
 On 2007 mini cooper s, purchased new 12-2007, experiencing warped/melted/deformed scoops on bonnet(hood) due to extreme heat issue from turbo, scoop originally had zero cutouts, my cooper has 3 cutouts in scoop made by mfg, opening not large enough or fan does not run long enough to cool down the bonnet scoop or fan does not run at all, fan runs about 30% of the time only & warping occurs on the bonnet scoop which is painted plastic. if the bonnet scoop was metal, this would not be an issue. heat can reach 235 degrees. have been opening hood when re-parking in the garage to allow to vent/cool down. opening hood not always possible ,obviously, when parking not at home. would like mini (bmw) to address this problem, needs to replace the painted to match hood scoop, addressing with bmw 12-19-2008. *tr
07/01/200750001
 The hood scoop of my car deforms due to extreme heat. *tr
01/24/20088000102/26/2007
 Cold start rumble/rattle/clatter from engine. intermittent and sporadic sound from engine bay upon start up primarily during winter months, sound disaptes and goes away as car warms. the sound is very rough clatter, sounding like metal on metal - oil starvation on start up? i have serious concerns on long term damage and compromise of the normal life of motor - in other words getting screwed outside of warranty. this is not a single incident, but an ongoing condition. *tr
11/01/200721000404/23/2007
 Car has been outside in the cold weather and when started it sounds like not firing correctly-backfiring noises. engine lights pop up. mainly 1/2 engine power light and cruise control failure. car really only has 1/2 engine power. top speed is 45mph, downhill. car lurches around, engine revs every second or so. 1st time shut car off and turned back on then it was fine. check engine light remained on. car spent night in garage, was fine next morning. that night same symptoms at start up but didn't go away - had to make long commute home at slow speeds. car spent night inside again and was fine in the morning. called dealer, car towed to dealer. service manager kept using engine and throttle interchangeably - causing great concern when i was told that the problem is condensation getting into it and freezing, but they reassured me it is the throttle and not the engine. dealer said they put a special lub in it and to not drive short drives-i never do, 24,000 miles on a 9 month old car. 6 weeks later exact same problems again. car to dealer. loaner car (2007 mini cooper s) did exact same thing my car was doing. the loaner car did come out of it about 30 miles into commute. could get up to highway speeds, all lights went off except check engine light. something seemed to thaw out. was told the throttle was freezing in cold temps and affecting many mini's, bmw's, and jag's. dealer changed oil in my car, 1 week after 1st oil change. dealer said they are doing investigation but that i have to live with it for now. local mechanic said it sounds like the sensor that tells the computer how much gas to spray into the chamber is frozen. probably made of cheap materials, gets hot, moisture condenses and freezes on sensor causing problems but not sure without being able to see car go through one of it's fits. car has been fine for past 4 weeks. some people at dealer admit to problem while others will not, telling me it is just my car and only when i have it. *tr
09/23/20072000106/17/2007
 Gets extremely hot under the hood and deforms the plastic hood scoop. *tr
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
01/23/2010260001
 The car has been at the dealer every other week for the last 6 weeks. on cold starts the car would run rough, hesitate almost stall and the heat wasn't working unless you were driving or had your foot on the gas. then the check engine light came on brought it to the dealer they replaced the timing chain changed the oil and bled the coolant. a few days later it stalled on a cold start and the heat still wasn't working. the dealer this time found excessive carbon in engine and a leak at water pump. computer did not throughout a code for either. dealer opened a case at the manufacture. 2 weeks later i brought it back when the windows would go half way down and the door would unlock. dealer reset the windows and i went to pick it up to find the windows half way down and the doors unlocked. dealer replaced the motor. 2 weeks later my battery light when on. on the way to the dealer the car died. dealer said there was an oil leak the led to the alternator belt slipping off and my battery didn't charge and now is dead. i won't get it back until sometime next week. this car only has 26,000 miles on it. *tr
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
12/11/2012230001
 2007 mini cooper s. consumer writes in regards to defective power steering hoses and oil pan gaskets. *smd the consumer stated the steering hose and oil pan gasket failed at the same time.
05/02/201167354
 The check engine light has come on at 67k miles and i have brought the vehicle in to get checked at the dealer. the service department reports that the timing chain is beginning to fail and needs to be replaced, along with a water pump leak. the timing chain is a known failure and still has no recall.
03/01/201147000
 Extremely loud engine noise during a cold start. the root cause is the failure of timing belt tensioner. the only recourse is to replace the tensioner and adjust or replace the belt/chain. this is a known defect.
03/11/201149200
 The following is my complete account of the events that occurred with my 2007 mini coopers .
03/01/201147000
 Extremely loud engine noise during a cold start. the root cause is the failure of timing belt tensioner. the only recourse is to replace the tensioner and adjust or replace the belt/chain. this is a known defect.
03/11/201149200
 The following is my complete account of the events that occurred with my 2007 mini coopers .
03/01/201147000
 Extremely loud engine noise during a cold start. the root cause is the failure of timing belt tensioner. the only recourse is to replace the tensioner and adjust or replace the belt/chain. this is a known defect.
03/11/201149200
 The following is my complete account of the events that occurred with my 2007 mini coopers .
03/01/201147000
 Extremely loud engine noise during a cold start. the root cause is the failure of timing belt tensioner. the only recourse is to replace the tensioner and adjust or replace the belt/chain. this is a known defect.
03/11/201149200
 The following is my complete account of the events that occurred with my 2007 mini coopers .
01/01/201182000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper sport. the contact was driving approximately 65 mph when the check oil warning lamp illuminated and the vehicle stalled. the vehicle was taken to a local repair shop who diagnosed that the timing chain tensioner fractured. as a result, the timing chain loosened and caused all the pistons to misfire and damage the engine. the manufacturer was contacted who did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was out of warranty. the vin was not available and the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 82,000.
01/01/201182000
 Tl - the contact owns a 2007 mini cooper sport. the contact stated that while driving approximately 65 mph the check oil lamp illuminated and the vehicle stalled. the vehicle was taken to a local shop who diagnosed that the timing chain tensioner broke as a result the timing chain loosen up which caused all the piston to misfire and killed the engine. the manufacturer was contacted who did not offered any assistance since the vehicle was out of warranty. the vehicle identification number was not available. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 82,000. pm
12/27/201064000
 Engine rattle at start up, engine will not maintain idle when ambient temperature too cold (as high as 20 deg f but more common as temperature drops) and can even die. engine hesitation and stumble while accelerating and while maintaining highway speeds, regardless of engine and ambient temperature. lack of engine power. car may seem to be running fine but when accelerating the engine will stumble and hesitate, much like a missing cylinder, this causes the car to accelerate slower than expected regardless of throttle position. this can create an unsafe condition. seems to be most pronounced at part throttle between 2000 and 3000 rpm but is still present at higher speeds and more throttle opening. can also make te car stumble very badly when starting from a stop, causing the car to move forward a few feet very slowly before accelerating at a somewhat normal pace. this effect is similar to letting out the clutch too soon but happens even if rpms are brought up to 2000+rpm and the clutch is slowly let out.
01/31/201150000
 2007 mini cooper s engine rattles loudly for the first 30 seconds to 2 min. after startup in cold weather. caused by cam tension issues. min has worked on it numerous times. it is now out of warranty but still having problems. i happens on an almost daily basis on cold days.
01/01/201167000
 At approximately 67,000 miles, the engine developed a knocking sound which would last from a cold start for approximately 5 minutes. after two weeks, the engine failed entirely. the mechanic reported that the timing chain retensioner had broken and caused another component to fall into the engine where it did further damage.
11/20/201051800
 07/mini/cooper hardtop/2dr cpe s/ 51,810 miles. timing chain tensioner collapsed and caused timing chain to stretch and damage guide rails. replaced timing chain assembly and reprogrammed vehicle.
11/12/201053000
 Mini cooper cold start knocking noise issue
02/14/201051000
 Upon starting my engine every morning there is a large clattering noise coming from the passenger side of the engine compartment. it seems to be an issue with the timing belt tensioner as the part does not get enough oil in it as it drains out after sitting for a few hours. if the part is not replaced or fixed the timing chain will eventually break and ruin my engine. my car is out of warranty and this is a factory issue that bmw/mini refuse to acknowledge or firx.
02/23/2009304341
 Engine exhibits hash noise during startup 50% of the time after minimum of 8 hr shutdown at below freezing temperatures. the issue is a defective timing chain tensioner which the dealer won't replace because 1) they can't reproduce the startup noise or 2) this is normal. other vehicles of this make, model, and engine have experienced catastrophic engine failures because of dealer inaction and subsequent timing chain failure. *tr
11/17/2008250001
 Engine noise on cold starts. my car has made diesel like noises on cold start up for the past year. at first the dealer said it was normal. upon insisting they advised of a bleeding procedure and then of a faulty timing chain tensioner. after 7 months they finally replaced the tensioner (they had to hear it before they could repair it). the dealer had it for a week and said it was all fixed. the noise came back three days later. i took it in a second time and they got bmw engineer to look at it. they replaced a check valve that was supposed to trap oil in the vanos system and said once again it was fixed. the noise was back three days later. i took it back to the dealer and they were not able to duplicate the noise. i have been in touch with mini of north america and they have asked me to keep a log as to how i drive and when it happens with temperature. the engine has oil and water on demand rather than all the time like regular engines. starting this up with no oil in the head is bound to cause damage. *tr
01/05/2009601
 Cold start chatter. very nasty diesel engine sound upon startup when engine is cold. sound lasts for up to 1 minute if i start driving right away, or 5 minutes if i let it sit idle. occurs between 800 and 3000 rpm. reproducible every time the engine is cold (ie, has not been used recently). *tr
02/15/2008150001004/16/2007
 New 2007 mini cooper s does not stay running in cold weather when started. the car has to be revved above 1000rpm's for 2 minutes to keep car running. so far original computer has been reprogrammed, a new computer installed since the reprogram didn't work and new hoses placed thinking there is an icing issue. car was at service center for 1 month, told everything was fixed and tested, started car two days later and it did exactly the same thing all over again, it does not stay running when cold. *tr
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - DIESEL
01/05/2009601
 Cold start chatter. very nasty diesel engine sound upon startup when engine is cold. sound lasts for up to 1 minute if i start driving right away, or 5 minutes if i let it sit idle. occurs between 800 and 3000 rpm. reproducible every time the engine is cold (ie, has not been used recently). *tr
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
11/28/200712
 During cold start vehicle makes loud metal on metal sound persistent for several minutes. sound is similar to older diesel engine with rattling and rough sounds. in the uk dealers have been responsive to the issue replacing the chain tensioner and now in some cases the engine. dealers in the us deny the issue and provide no remedy calling the sound normal. issue is causing undue engine wear. *tr
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE - TURBO-CHARGER
04/01/2008235103/18/2008
 During start up, loud valve tapping noise is heard. noise persisted during multiple segment of the trip where engine was shut off for up to 30 min and restarted. subsequent noise was not as prominent as the initial start up on the same day. *tr
08/20/20073000107/03/2007
 The center pillar heat rises to an extremely high temperature in my car. this happened in the summer when temperatures were very hot.(100+) it's hot enough to startle a driver or burn them; this could cause them to react by moving their foot on the accelerator in an unpredictable way, which is quite a safety hazard. it burned my right ankle. i'm writing now because i really didn't know any better then, plus i didn't know about this website. now there are reports of mini cooper ss catching on fire. i am concerned. *tr
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
01/04/201152860
 2007 mini cooper 52860 miles has been to the dealer 5 times in the last year with same problem a loud clanking noise during startup and the engine light comes on. they have changed everything but i still have th issue. i took the car to a different shop other than the dealer and he said i shouldn't be driving the car that it has serious flaw in the timing belt and the engine could malfunction at any time. i called mini and they sadi they would try to fix the car again since its was still under warrently. this car is dangerous and i have seen thousands of posts for this same issue. when i talked ot the dealer about the thousands of posts about this issue he said they have serveral major engine problems with mins 2007,2008.2009 and 2010 so they had to change the engine. the car is currently in the shop for the sixth time this year i told mini i was scarred to drive because if the the engine stops while i am driving it i will be dangerours. the are going to replace the timing again he did suggest i get a 2011 mini since the engine was changed. i think there should be a recall with this issue.
10/19/2009361241
 2007 mini cooper s spontaneously caught fire while turned off and parked in my garage. i had traveled less than two miles when i parked the car. fire started under the hood and completely totaled the car by the time the fire department arrived and put it out. *tr
05/05/20081
 I own a 2007 mini cooper s hardtop. last may, while taking some shopping packages out of the back ,through the hatch of my vehicle , i was burned on the side of my left calf by the exhaust pipe. a couple of weeks after, it happened again, just not as badly as the first time thankfully. the first burn did blister and today,sept.30,2008, i still have a mark on my leg from this painful event. *tr
08/15/2007100001
 The tailpipes, when hot, apparently protrude enough to cause severe burns to the leg. my 7 year old daughter sustained a serious burn this way when getting something out of the hatchback. *tr
10/28/200713081
 Received blistering and permanent scaring burn from exhaust pipe while removing cargo from rear of vehicle. *tr
10/28/200713081
 Received blistering and permanent scaring burn from exhaust pipe while removing cargo from rear of vehicle. *tr
06/01/2008100001
 I burned my lower front leg on the chrome tipped dual exhaust pipes of out 2007 mini cooper s (turbo version). *tr
09/07/20071
 Lower leg sustained burn resulting in scaring as result of coming into contact with edge of rear exhaust pipe(s). exhaust pipes extend too far beyond rear bumper creating exposure to a person accessing trunk. *tr
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
07/04/2008100001
 After a 30 minute drive, i parked and then pulled something out of the trunk. while reaching in, i burned my left shin on the tailpipe. i showed it a couple of days later to our burn unit director and he told me that it was a functional full thickness burn in an extremely dangerous location (because of the poor blood perfusion to the shin, healing is impaired and infection risk is high). he sent me home from work on antibiotics and i had to be on bed rest with my leg elevated. i spoke to mini and they suggested that i be careful - as the tailpipe can get hot. i thanked them for the advice and made the following point: sure, it gets hot... it's an exhaust tailpipe. however, it's the first thing my leg comes in contact to and it's in the center of a car that requires you to get close in order to pull something out of the trunk. i suggested that bmw issue a recall and adjust the tailpipe so that the first thing the leg hits is the bumper (like most cars). i was told that no change was planned at this time. my points: it's a bad design. it's an extremely dangerous problem. it is a very common problem (a simple google search or northamericanmotoring search will show this). bmw needs to do something to protect its customers and even more importantly, its customers' children. *tr add picture *121108 cw updated 12/11/08. *jb

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