2017 Mini Cooper Countryman

Introduction:

The 2017 Mini Cooper Countryman is a subcompact SUV with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine producing 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque or a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 189 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a six-speed manual, an eight-speed automatic, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Owners praise the Countryman’s sporty handling, comfortable interior, and versatile cargo space. However, they also cite some reliability concerns and a premium price tag.

Engine:

1.5-Liter Three-Cylinder

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, leading to oil accumulation and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to jump and potentially damaging the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• Connecting Rod Bearing Failure: The connecting rod bearings can fail, resulting in engine noise and catastrophic failure.
  • Solution: Replace the connecting rod bearings and associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• Intake Valve Deposits: Carbon deposits can build up on the intake valves, reducing engine performance and fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Perform an intake valve cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder

• Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger can fail, resulting in reduced engine power and performance.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure: The high-pressure fuel pump can fail, causing engine hesitation and stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Water Pump Failure: The water pump can fail, leading to overheating and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Transmission:

Six-Speed Manual

• Shift Fork Failure: The shift fork can break, preventing the transmission from shifting properly.
  • Solution: Replace the shift fork.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure: The clutch master cylinder can fail, causing the clutch to not engage properly.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Eight-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter can fail, leading to transmission slippage and vibration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• Transmission Control Module Failure: The transmission control module can fail, causing transmission shifting problems.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Clutch Pack Failure: The dual-clutch pack can wear out, resulting in clutch slippage and transmission problems.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Mechatronic Unit Failure: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission, can fail, causing shifting issues.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

Suspension:

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure: The strut mount bearings can fail, leading to a clunking noise when turning or driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

Electrical:

• Battery Discharge: The battery can discharge prematurely due to faulty electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty electrical component(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the faulty component

Exterior:

• Headlight Condensation: Condensation can accumulate inside the headlights, impairing visibility.
  • Solution: Replace the headlights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ per headlight

Interior:

• Infotainment System Glitches: The infotainment system can experience glitches, such as freezing or losing connectivity.
  • Solution: Software updates or hardware replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue

Summary:

The 2017 Mini Cooper Countryman has some reliability concerns, particularly with the engine and transmission. Engine issues range from valve cover gaskets leaks to potential catastrophic failures. Transmission problems include shift fork issues, torque converter failure, and clutch pack wear. The Countryman also experiences some electrical and suspension issues.

The severity and cost of these problems can vary significantly, but they can be a significant inconvenience and expense for owners. It is recommended to research these issues and consider extended warranty coverage before purchasing a Countryman.