2017 Mini Cooper Clubman

The 2017 Mini Cooper Clubman is a unique compact car that blends hatchback practicality with MINI’s signature quirky styling and fun driving dynamics. For the 2017 model year, the Clubman offered three engine options: a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder (134 hp, 162 lb-ft of torque), a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (189 hp, 207 lb-ft of torque), and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder in the John Cooper Works (JCW) trim (228 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque). Transmission choices varied depending on the engine and trim, including 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, and 8-speed automatic options. Owners often praise the Clubman for its distinctive design, agile handling, and premium interior. Common complaints often revolve around its relatively small cargo space, limited rear passenger room, and potentially higher running costs compared to more mainstream compact cars.

Engine

1.5L Turbocharged Three-Cylinder

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points in the cooling system, including hoses, the water pump, or the thermostat housing. Symptoms include a low coolant level, overheating, and visible coolant pooling under the car.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the faulty component. This may involve replacing hoses, the water pump, or the thermostat housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (Base and JCW)

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner may fail, leading to a loose timing chain. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, especially upon startup, and potential engine misfires or rough running.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and any associated guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil filter housing gasket can become brittle and leak oil. Symptoms include visible oil leaks near the oil filter housing and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket. In some cases, the entire oil filter housing may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: The 6-speed automatic transmission can experience rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can also manifest as hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software Update) - $4000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic (Aisin)

• Delayed Engagement/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: This transmission, used in some models, may exhibit delayed engagement when shifting from Park or Neutral to Drive or Reverse. Harsh shifting, especially during downshifts, is also a reported issue.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may reveal issues with the valve body or solenoids, requiring replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (Fluid Flush) - $2500+ (Valve Body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
  • Solution: Identify the parasitic drain by testing the electrical system and tracking down which component is causing the excessive drain. Could be faulty modules, lights, or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (Depending on source)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Sensors (TPMS)
  • Description/Symptoms: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors may fail prematurely, leading to false readings or warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty TPMS sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may fail to close properly, or may get stuck
  • Solution: Check the sunroof track for obstructions, and check motor for damage. Replace as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mini Cooper Clubman, while generally a reliable and fun-to-drive vehicle, does have some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine issues, particularly oil leaks and timing chain concerns on the 2.0L, and transmission problems, such as rough shifting in both automatic options, can be costly to repair. Electrical problems like battery drain and faulty TPMS sensors can also be frustrating. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like timing chain replacement or transmission overhaul, can be significant. Thorough inspection and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.