Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2020 Mini Cooper S peaked in 2025, with 2 filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Model year
2020 Mini Cooper S
Hatchback, gasoline, FWD/Front-Wheel Drive, built in England. Owner complaints on file from Dec 19, 2019 to Jun 25, 2025.
Recall campaigns covering this model year2759 vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints5Below the median 2020 hatchback
Severity index20.02020 hatchbacks average 8.2
First 24 months3Complaints in its first two years
Components
40% of complaints about the 2020 Mini Cooper S name engine and cooling
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls
2 recall campaigns cover the 2020 Mini Cooper S
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
| Campaign | Filed | Subject | Component | Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20V-283 | May 20, 2020 | Due to a problem with the rollover sensor within the air bag control unit, in the event of a rollover crash, the head air bag, seat belt… | Airbags | 76 | Part replacement |
| 19V-634 | Aug 28, 2019 | Rear side trim panels may have been assembled without a crash pad | Structure | 683 | Repair or modification |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2020 Mini Cooper S
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
5 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Jun 25, 2025Failure Jun 18, 2025Chicago, ILEngine, Service brakes, Vehicle speed controlCrash1 injured
I was pulling into a parking spot slowly and all of the sudden the car took off and took off and I couldn’t stop and when I tried to sped hard on the break it wouldn’t work and I lost control and my car wouldn’t stop until it crashed into another vehicle that was sitting in another parking spot.
NHTSA complaint 11669081 - Filed Mar 13, 2025Failure Feb 13, 202525,500 milesPhiladelphia, PASteering
The contact owns a 2020 Mini Cooper S. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the power steering feature malfunctioned, causing the steering wheel to become difficult to turn in either direction. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the steering pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 25,500. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint 11648130 - Filed Mar 18, 2021Failure Feb 23, 20218,028 milesMiddle Island, NYWheels
THE TIRES ON THIS VEHICLE HAVE BLOWN OUT 3 TIMES IN THE 9 MONTHS WE HAVE OWNED THIS CAR. ANOTHER TIRE (A FOURTH INCIDENT) HAD A BUBBLE THAT WAS REPLACED BEFORE IT BLEW OUT. ALL INCIDENTS WERE SEPARATE TIMES. THE DEALER AND BMW WILL DO NOTHING. ALL BLOW OUTS WERE ON THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING ABOUT 60 MPH.
NHTSA complaint 11403655 - Filed Jun 23, 2020Failure Jun 23, 20201,400 milesFrisco, TXElectrical system, Engine
DURING A RAIN SHOWER, DROVE AT ABOUT 15MPH INTO ROUGHLY 4" OF WATER GATHERED ON THE SHOULDER OF AN ACCESS ROAD ADJACENT TO THE HIGHWAY AND THE ENGINE STALLED. WOULD NOT RESTART. PUDDLE OF WATER WAS NOT HIGH ENOUGH TO BREACH THE CABIN - RUNNING BOARDS WERE STILL ABOVE WATER AND THE CURB ADJACENT TO THE STREET WAS NOT SUBMERGED. CAR WOULD NOT START AND TRANSMISSION LOCKED UP. BMW ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE CONTACTED AND ADVISED NOT TO START; TOW TRUCK HAD DIFFICULTY LOADING ONTO THE FLATBED BECAUSE THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM HAD MALFUNCTIONED IN THE ELECTRIC CONVERTIBLE TOP AND WAS OVERRIDING THE ABILITY TO PUT THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL. *TR
NHTSA complaint 11330340 - Filed Dec 19, 2019Failure Dec 16, 201910 milesBoynton Beach, FLVisibility/wiper
WHEN SITTING IN DRIVERS SEAT ( I AM 5FT. 1 IN TALL) AND THE CONVERTIBLE TOP IS OPEN, I CAN NOT SEE THROUGH THE REAR VIEW MIRA BECAUSE THE CONVERTIBLE TOP FOLDED IS BLOCKING MY VISION. MY SEAT IS AT HIGHEST POSITION. JUST AS POINT OF REFERENCE I HAD A 2012 MINI CONV. AND THIS WAS NOT A PROBLEM. BECAUSE OF THIS I HAD TO TAKE THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER AND GET ANOTHER VEHICLE WHICH COST ME IN EXCESS OF $5000 AS MY 3 DAY OLD CAR WAS CONSIDERED USED WITH 91 MILES ON IT. MY HUSBAND WHO IS 5'9" TALL TRIED IT AND HAD SOME VISIBILITY BUT VERY LIMITED. THIS IS A DANGEROUS THING AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN CORRECTED BY MINI. EITHER THE MECHANISM OR THE FABRIC USED HAS TO BE CHANGED TO ALLOW THE TOP TO RETRACT OUT OF SIGHT. THIS DOES NOT MATTER IF YOU ARE MOVING OR STANDING STILL, AND COULD CAUSE THE DRIVE TO EASILY HAVE AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE THEY CAN'T SEE WHAT IS BEHIND THEM.
NHTSA complaint 11290057
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
68 manufacturer communications cover this model year
Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.
- M310424 Mar 4, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
During inspection and/or diagnosis there is noticeable dirt/grease buildup on the axles near the inner and/or outer CV boots. - M610607 Oct 25, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
MINI electrical systems have continued to develop over the past few years. As a result, the demand on the batteries has increased. Breakdowns due to an empty battery or problems in the vehicles electrical system can have various causes, most of which are … - M540123 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?The panoramic roof sunblind does not close, or jams while closing. - M110323 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop: REPLACE CHARGE AIR LINE. - M510123 May 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Upon opening and closing the tailgate, a creaking/groaning sound can be heard from tailgate actuator. - M840322 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose, the SIM card must perform an IMS registration in th… - M610223 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The buttons on the gear selector switch (GWS) do not work, or the function indicator lighting has failed. - M610123 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Oscillations in the electric drive can occur. As a result, the 12 V positive battery cable may rub against the battery box cover. - M630122 Feb 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Ambient lighting changes color after the vehicle goes to sleep. - M610820 Nov 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
During the service life of the vehicle, the high-voltage battery may unexpectedly not provide power to the vehicle. - M540122 Nov 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
It is possible that the guide stem (aka rotational axis) on the wind deflector can break, upon removal and or during installation. - M220122 Nov 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
During a vehicle inspection and/or while addressing a customer's concern, the engine stabilizer bar/link appears to be worn. - M840322 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Due to a production error, the telematics control units were delivered without an IMS configuration. The Connected Drive voice services (Concierge Call, MINI Assistance and emergency call voice) can no longer be used regionally in the US in vehicle with t… - SIM640122 May 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Mist formation on the windscreen inner surface may occur at departure or after MSA (automaticstart/stop). Acoustic abnormality in the area of the recirculated air flap (recirculation flap closing and opening several times). The above may occur individually … - SIM330122 May 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The following complaints may be noticed while slow maneuvering with a steering input of 80-100% (at or near full lock, e.g., parking lot maneuvers) or accelerating with a medium to large steering angle: Humming or creaking noises from the rear area; slight … - SIM610321 Apr 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Check Control message "Door open" appears in the instrument cluster (Kombi) even though all vehicle doors are securely closed and locked. - M340317 Feb 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Vehicles with total mileage below approx. 12,500 may experience premature wear of the left rear brakes. In some cases, there also may be visible damage due to thermal overload. - M610321 Dec 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Any or all of the following CCM ID code 14/15/16/17 door open appear in the instrument cluster when the door is properly closed and locked. The locking operation of the door is not affected by the incorrect display. - M360119 Dec 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
New RDC wheel electronics will be introduced with future generation MINI models. The new wheel electronics are identified as Huf Generation 5. These new wheel electronics will need to be programmed using the new tool when replaced or when depressurized (0 p… - M230121 Dec 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
When the vehicle is on a lift and wheels are manually spun, a clanking noise is heard from the transmission area. - M120121 Dec 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
In situations when the fuel tank vent line becomes blocked, the on-board diagnosis (OBD) may not detect the blockage. - M651015 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Headunit High (HU-H), also called NBT came in vehicles with option 609. This uses map North America NEXT. The Headunit High 2 (HU-H2), also called NBT-EVO, superseded the NBT HU and came in vehicles with option code 609. This uses map North America EVO.… - M640221 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Different air temperatures are felt from left to right out of the front fresh air grilles (air vents). - M640221 Jul 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Different air temperatures are felt from left to right out of the front fresh air grilles (air vent). The following fault code is saved in the IHKA (integrated automatic heating/air conditioning system) control unit: 801189 - Engine mixed air right: Initial… - M410221 May 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION 0041080200: MINI F54 RIGHT FRONT DOOR: Due to a fault in the press shop, there may be a crack in the inner door panel of the front right door in the area of the window frame. - M220117 May 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Creaking Noise When Cornering: A creaking noise is heard from the front end of the vehicle while cornering (predominantly left turns) - M310115 Jun 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A groaning and/or squeaking noise from the front axle occurs when turning at low speeds or idle - M660121 Apr 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
ACTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC) CANNOT BE ACTIVATED: After the recent software update, the cruise control cannot be activated. - M610820 Mar 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
REPLACING THE CELL MODULE OF HIGHVOLTAGE BATTERY: During the service life of the vehicle, the high-voltage battery may unexpectedly not provide power to the vehicle. - M610121 Mar 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CLICKING NOISE IN VEHICLE INTERIOR DURING CHARGING: Clicking noise from the interior passenger side footwell when the vehicle is being charged, with the air conditioning running at the same time. - M610820 Dec 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?REPLACING THE CELL MODULE OF HIGHVOLTAGE BATTERY: During the service life of the vehicle, the high-voltage battery may unexpectedly not provide power to the vehicle. The high-voltage battery cells may not have been produced according to specifications. - M610820 Dec 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?REPLACING THE CELL MODULE OF HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY: During the service life of the vehicle, the high-voltage battery may unexpectedly not provide power to the vehicle. The high-voltage battery cells may not have been produced according to specifications. - M520119 Nov 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NOISE DURING FORWARD / BACK SEAT ADJUSTMENT OVER THE ENTIRE LENGTH OF TRAVEL: A loud screeching noise can be heard from the front driver's or passenger's seat during forward/back seat adjustment. - M640220 Oct 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CONDENSATION FROM AIR CONDITIONING LEAKS INTO PASSENGER FOOTWELL: Condensation from the air conditioning systems evaporator drips, below the instrument panel, into the passenger's footwell. During assembly, the cover of the fresh air intake was not fully se… - M640120 Oct 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BUZZING NOISE IS HEARD WHEN AIR CONDITIONING IS DEACTIVATED: A buzzing noise is heard when the air conditioning (A/C) is deactivated while the vehicle is in park or neutral. Prior to turning off the A/C, the system was functional and cooling properly. A/C c… - M510220 Oct 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION - F60 TAILGATE HANDLE STRIP: The incorrect tailgate handle strip may have been installed during production. - M110420 Oct 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION - MOUNTING THE OIL FILLER CAP CORRECTLY: The oil filler cap may not be mounted correctly. The cap was not installed correctly during assembly. - M640220 Oct 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CONDENSATION FROM AIR CONDITIONING LEAKS INTO PASSENGER FOOTWELL: Condensation from the air conditioning systems evaporator drips, below the instrument panel, into the passenger's footwell. During assembly, the cover of the fresh air intake was not fully se… - M640120 Oct 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BUZZING NOISE IS HEARD WHEN AIR CONDITIONING IS DEACTIVATED: A buzzing noise is heard when the air conditioning (A/C) is deactivated while the vehicle is in park or neutral. Prior to turning off the A/C, the system was functional and cooling properly. A/C c… - M510220 Oct 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION - F60 TAILGATE HANDLE STRIP: The incorrect tailgate handle strip may have been installed during production. - M110420 Oct 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION - MOUNTING THE OIL FILLER CAP CORRECTLY: The oil filler cap may not be mounted correctly. The cap was not installed correctly during assembly. - M610520 Sep 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
MINI TURBOCORD PORTABLE EV 120V/240V CHARGER: The MINI-approved accessory TurboCord will not charge the vehicle. - M340120 Sep 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION - PROGRAM THE BODY DOMAIN CONTROL (BDC) UNIT: Aftermarket scan tools cannot read fault codes in the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) unit via the On Board Diagnostic (OBD) socket. The DSC data is not processed correctly in the BDC and therefor… - M610420 Aug 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
DELIVERY STOP - HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY: Please do not charge the vehicle high-voltage battery until further notice. There may be a potential issue in the welding process of the HV-modules. - M410120 Aug 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CRACKING NOISE FROM A-PILLAR: When driving over rough road surfaces, a cracking noise can be heard from either or both lower A-Pillars near the bottom corners of the windshield. Interference between 2 sheet metal panels. - M340120 Aug 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION - PROGRAM THE BODY DOMAIN CONTROL (BDC) UNIT: Aftermarket scan tools cannot read fault codes in the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) unit via the On Board Diagnostic (OBD) socket. The DSC data is not processed correctly in the BDC and therefor… - M010520 Aug 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
B46M ENVIRONMENTAL AIR CATALYST SENSOR - LTD WTY EXT TO 15 YEARS/150,000 MILES: Component/Issue-Specific Limited Warranty Extension For the eligible vehicles, MINI USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC ("MINI USA") is extending the limited warranty f… - M660220 Jul 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
KAFAS (CAMERA-BASED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS) LIMITATIONS: KAFAS camera-based assistance system (without radar) is not operating up to customer expectations. Customers can report system errors such as: Vehicle equipped with camera-based ACC, brakes without… - M620318 Jul 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BLACK SPOT IN THE CENTRAL INFORMATION DISPLAY: A small black spot remains on the Central Information Display's (CID) illuminated screen which does not go away after a key cycle or sleep mode. Dead pixels in the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) diodes. Each indi… - M160220 Jul 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NOISES FROM THE FUEL TANK AT IDLE: While driving slowly with low RPM or while idling, a faint knocking or fluttering noise can be heard from inside the fuel tank when the tank is full. The customer may describe this noise as a "helicopter noise" from the re… - M010520 Jul 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
B46M ENVIRONMENTAL AIR CATALYST SENSOR - LTD WTY EXT TO 15 YEARS/150,000 MILES: Component/Issue-Specific Limited Warranty Extension For the eligible vehicles, MINI USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC ("MINI USA") is extending the limited warranty f… - M130120 May 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
TANK VENTILATION AND MIXTURE CONTROL FAULTS STORED IN THE DME: The Engine Malfunction Warning is illuminated and one or more of the following faults are stored in the DME. All models: FC 191C02 - Fuel tank ventilation system 2nd discharge point: malfunction… - M840818 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CONNECTEDDRIVE/MINI ASSIST SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS INFORMATION: ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist features are partially or completely inoperative. - M620119 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CENTRAL INSTRUMENT PANEL LED SURROUND RING DOES NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN IGNITION IS TURNED ON: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 2) replaces SI M62 01 19 dated January 2019.The central instrument's outer perimeter LED ring (arrows) does not illuminate… - M610220 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CHECK CONTROL MESSAGES FOR BRAKE SUSPENSION AND AIR BAG SYSTEM MALFUNCTION: Multiple check control messages (CCM) can display for brake suspension and air bag system malfunction. The customer may also complain about any of the following: Engine can no longe… - M610120 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
DELIVERY STOP: SAFETY BATTERY TERMINAL CONTROL LINE This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 1) replaces SI B61 01 20 dated February 2020. If the vehicle and the ignition is turned off after 10 - 15 min the high voltage components will switch off and the… - M510120 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
FRONT DOORS DO NOT LATCH IN COLD WEATHER: At ambient temperatures below freezing one or both front doors may not open when attempting to enter. In some cases after opening they may not correctly latch. A missing seal on the inner Bowden release cable may al… - M220317 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CREAKING NOISE FROM THE LOWER ENGINE AREA: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 1) replaces SI M22 03 17 dated January 2018. During load reversal or taking off from a stop there is a creaking or droning noise heard from the lower engine area. CAUSE T… - M120420 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION: PROGRAM THE DIGITAL MOTOR ELECTRONICS (DME) - B36C: In certain situations the exhaust valve seat inserts may become overheated when using low quality fuel. If overheated the valve seat insert may become distorted and wear at an increased rat… - M120320 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION: PROGRAM CONTROL UNITS (EME): The software of the electrical machine electronics is faulty. This causes the scan tool to read out only the fault memory that was stored first so that any further faults are not displayed.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.