2019 Mini Cooper Clubman

The 2019 Mini Cooper Clubman is a stylish and practical small wagon known for its fun-to-drive nature and unique design. The base model comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 189 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque in the Cooper S model, and a more powerful version of the same 2.0-liter engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque in the John Cooper Works (JCW) model. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic (available on the base model), an 8-speed automatic (available on the S and JCW models) and a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. Owners often praise the Clubman’s distinctive styling, agile handling, and premium interior. However, some common complaints include a firm ride, limited rear passenger space (compared to other wagons), and a higher price point than some competitors.

Engine

1.5L Turbocharged Three-Cylinder

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the thermostat housing or water pump area. Can lead to overheating and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing or water pump, and inspect hoses for damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (Cooper S)

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on cold starts. Can eventually lead to engine damage if the timing chain fails.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (John Cooper Works)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and/or a whistling noise from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Inspect the oil supply line to the turbocharger for any blockages.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears. Delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, may require valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) to $3,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic

• Hesitation/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when accelerating from a stop, followed by a noticeable jerk.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM). If that doesn’t work, valve body replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (software update) to $1,500+ (valve body replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially if left sitting for several days.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the parasitic draw. Common culprits include faulty modules or accessories that are not shutting off properly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software update to the infotainment system. In some cases, the entire head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) to $1,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Issues (Split Rear Doors)
  • Description/Symptoms: One or both of the rear tailgate doors not latching or opening properly.
  • Solution: Adjust or replace the tailgate latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, or makes excessive noise when operating.
  • Solution: Inspect and lubricate the sunroof tracks and mechanism. In some cases, the sunroof motor or entire assembly may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (lubrication) to $1,000+ (sunroof replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

In summary, the 2019 Mini Cooper Clubman can suffer from a range of issues, some potentially serious. Engine problems such as coolant leaks (1.5L) and timing chain issues (2.0L) can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the 6-speed and 8-speed automatics, may require expensive repairs or replacements. Electrical issues such as battery drain and infotainment system malfunctions can also be frustrating. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be significant and require costly repairs. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect any used Clubman before purchasing.