MINI Recall

[Kathy E]

(Updated) MINI USA Announces Water Pump Recall Affecting 89,000
Sections: R55 (Clubman) | R56 (Hatch) | R57 (Conv.) | R60
(Countryman) | Recalls/Campaigns Jan 15th, 2012 10 Comments


(Updated with detailed information) In perhaps the largest recall ever
announced, MINI USA is recalling every Cooper S and JCW model sold
from 2007 to 2011. The recall effects almost all 2007 – 2011 R55, R56,
R57 and R60 models with the turbocharged N14 engine. For a full list
of the cars affected and the specifics behind the problem, read on…

The Issue

The issue involves the electric auxiliary water pump on models that
are equipped with the N14 turbo engine. The auxiliary pump is
controlled electronically by an engine control unit. After switching
off the engine, the electric auxiliary water pump conducts heat away
from the turbocharger.

Under certain conditions, the pump’s electronic circuit board can
malfunction. The malfunction can occur as a result of certain design
features in combination with high operating temperatures.

If the water pump can fails, there’s a slight chance that the circuit
board can overheat. And in an extreme case, overheating of the circuit
board can lead to smoldering of the water pump. If smoldering occurs,
this may also lead to an engine compartment or vehicle fire.

Models Affected

Here’s the full list of Cooper S models affected:

2007-11 / Cooper S (Dec 2006 – Oct 2010)

2008-11 / Cooper S Clubman (Dec 2007 – Oct 2010)

2009-11 / Cooper S Convertible (Dec 2008 – Oct 2010)

2009-11 / John Cooper Works (JCW) (Jun 2008 – Oct 2010)

2009-11 / John Cooper Works (JCW) Clubman (Jun 2008 – Oct 2010)

2009-11 / John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible (Apr 2009 – Oct 2010)

2011 / Cooper S Countryman (Nov 2010 – Jan 2011)

How can you tell if this is happening to your MINI? The first tip-off
will be a plastic burning smell, or burning and/or smoke from the
front of the vehicle may be noticed.

What Should I Do While I Wait for MINI to Notify me of a Fix?

First you can continue to drive your car. However MINI recommends
parking your vehicle outdoors until repairs have been performed. Those
who own affected cars will receive a letter asking them to have this
service performed by their authorized MINI dealer, do so as soon as
possible.

What’s Next?

At this point MINI is fixing all cars in its inventory and will be
announcing a formal recall shortly. Any new or pre-owned MINI in
dealers inventory will be held until the recall can be completed, but
customer cars are not yet being held and the recall repair will not be
happening until the service bulletin is released.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an
investigation into the cars after 12 engine fires had been reported
including five that destroyed the cars entirely. In eight of the 12
cases, the fires occurred when the cars were parked and turned off.

We’ll have more as we get it…