2013 Mini Cooper Countryman
Introduction
The 2013 Mini Cooper Countryman is a small crossover SUV that is available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 121 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. A 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is also available, which produces 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all models, while a six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option.
The Countryman is praised for its stylish design, fun-to-drive nature, and comfortable interior. However, it has also been criticized for its lack of rear-seat legroom, small cargo area, and expensive options.
Engine
1.6-liter Four-Cylinder
- Oil Leaks: The oil filter housing gasket is known to fail, causing oil to leak. This can be a fire hazard if not repaired immediately.
- Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip and potentially damaging the engine.
- Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200
- Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V069000
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak. This can lead to rough idling, poor performance, and increased fuel consumption.
- Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
1.6-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
- Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves: Carbon buildup on the intake valves can cause reduced engine performance, misfires, and increased fuel consumption.
- Solution: Clean the intake valves.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Six-Speed Manual Transmission
- Shift Linkage Failure: The shift linkage can fail, causing difficulty or inability to shift gears.
- Solution: Replace the shift linkage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter can fail, causing loss of power and transmission overheating.
- Solution: Replace the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $1800
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut Mounts: The strut mounts can fail, causing a clunking noise and reduced ride quality.
- Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per strut
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain: The battery can drain prematurely, causing the vehicle to not start. This can be caused by a faulty alternator, parasitic drain, or other electrical issues.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Headlight Failure: The headlights can fail prematurely, reducing visibility at night.
- Solution: Replace the headlight bulbs or assemblies.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
- Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V525000
Exterior
- Roof Rails: The roof rails can become loose or detach from the vehicle.
- Solution: Tighten or replace the roof rails.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Squeaks and Rattles: The dashboard can develop squeaks and rattles over time.
- Solution: Locate and tighten loose components or apply sound deadening material.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
- Seatbelt Buckle Failure: The seatbelt buckle can fail to latch or release properly.
- Solution: Replace the seatbelt buckle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V255000
Summary
The 2013 Mini Cooper Countryman is a fun-to-drive and stylish crossover SUV with a number of potential issues. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before purchasing a Countryman.