Carlexica

2010 Mini Cooper S Convertible: problems, recalls and reliability

1 recall and 10 owner complaints on record; most reports concern engine.

Data updated weekly · latest recall Jan 2012

1
recalls
10
owner complaints
1
fire reports
-
typical failure mileage, mi

All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.

1 fire report

Common problems

Computed from 10 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.

Limited data: only 10 complaints on record for this model year - too few for percentage statistics. Bars show raw report counts; read them as individual owner reports, not reliability rates.
Engine (engine mechanics)4 complaints
Air Bags (airbags and crash sensors)2 complaints
Power Train (transmission, axles, driveline)1 complaint
Electrical System (battery, wiring, electronics)1 complaint
Steering (steering wheel, rack, power assist)1 complaint
“The contact owns a 2010 Mini Cooper Convertible. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the passenger's air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V205000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was diagnosed by an independent mechanic and it was determined that the front passenger occupant detection sensor needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 24,000.”Owner report · Air Bags · Jan 2023
“Latch on trunk unlocks and releases the trunk while driving. This can cause the contents of the trunk to fall on to the road endangering other drivers. This is a common complaint on the mini owner site”Owner report · Electrical System · May 2018
“I was driving on I 280 east and newar exit 8b the engine suddenly stopped. There was loss of power steering and steering wheel became very tight. I almost got hit by a tractor. I got out of the exit (exit 7) and got myself towed. The mechanic thinks it is the timing belt that is broken.”Owner report · Engine · Jan 2016
Show 3 more owner reports
“Engine noise due to timing chain and tensioner defect. If the chain or tensioner fail completely this could cause the vehicle to stall in moving traffic or create a roadside hazard. *tr”Owner report · Engine · Oct 2012
“The airbag "off" light comes on intermittently when a passenger is in the seat. Dealer says there is nothing wrong but problem persists. *tr”Owner report · Air Bags · Sep 2010
“Complete clutch failure with only 3700 miles on carl it was replaced by dealer but "not covered by warranty" dealer claims excessive wear and tear in car that is not abused. *tr”Owner report · Power Train · Dec 2009

Recalls - 1 campaign

Turbo/supercharger (engine and engine cooling)12V008000 · Jan 2012

BMW 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.

Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WATER PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGANDURING FEBRUARY 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-866-275-6464.

Check your exact Cooper S Convertible by VIN

Recalls and equipment differ between individual vehicles. Decode your VIN to see what applies to yours.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the 2010 Mini Cooper S Convertible reliable?

NHTSA has 10 owner complaints and 1 recall campaign on record for the 2010 Mini Cooper S Convertible. The most complained-about area is engine.

Does the 2010 Mini Cooper S Convertible have open recalls?

1 recall campaign has been issued, the latest concerning engine and engine cooling. Check your specific vehicle by VIN - recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.

Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.