2012 Mini Cooper Countryman

The 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman is a subcompact crossover known for its quirky styling, sporty handling, and available all-wheel drive. It came with several engine options. The base model featured a 1.6-liter inline-4 producing 121 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. The S model was equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-4 generating 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally like the Countryman’s unique character, agile handling, and fuel efficiency (especially with the base engine). Common dislikes include limited rear passenger space, a firm ride, and potentially high repair costs.

Engine

1.6L Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 (Base Model)

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various locations, including the water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator hoses. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak.
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, often originating from the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+

Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4 (“S” Model)

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner is known to fail, leading to a loose timing chain. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HPFP can fail, causing the engine to stall, misfire, or experience a loss of power.
  • Solution: Replacing the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
• Turbocharger Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure can manifest as a loss of power, excessive oil consumption, or a whistling noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves, leading to reduced performance, rough idling, and decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Walnut blasting or chemical cleaning of the intake valves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various locations, including the water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator hoses. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak.

Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engine Options)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the valve body can cause harsh or delayed shifting, slipping, or a complete failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, leading to slipping, shuddering, or a complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+

Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. It can also lead to vague steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn strut mounts can cause clunking noises from the suspension, particularly when turning the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for a pair

Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may fail to operate, often due to a faulty window regulator or motor.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
• Central Locking Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The central locking system may malfunction, causing doors to lock or unlock randomly or not at all. This can be caused by a faulty door actuator or a problem with the central locking module.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+

Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may leak, fail to open or close properly, or make excessive noise during operation. This can be due to a faulty motor, damaged seals, or a misaligned track.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman, particularly the S model with the turbocharged engine, can present owners with several potential issues. Engine problems, especially related to the timing chain and HPFP, can be costly to repair. The automatic transmission is also prone to issues. Suspension and electrical problems are also common, though generally less expensive than major engine or transmission repairs. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into the cost of ownership. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.