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2021 Mini Cooper

Introduction:

The 2021 Mini Cooper is a small, sporty hatchback available with a choice of three- or four-cylinder engines and either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Cooper S model boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 189 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, while the top-of-the-line John Cooper Works model cranks out 228 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The Mini Cooper is known for its agile handling, premium interior, and customizable options, but it has also been criticized for its firm ride quality and limited rear-seat space.

Engine

1.5L B38 Three-Cylinder

  • Engine Stalling:
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine stalls while idling or at low speeds, causing a loss of power.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the engine caused by a faulty timing chain tensioner.
    • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioner and associated components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L B48 Four-Cylinder (Cooper S)

  • High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, and reduced engine performance.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty high-pressure fuel pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Valve Carbon Buildup:
    • Description/Symptoms: Decreased engine performance, particularly at higher mileage.
    • Solution: Chemical cleaning or walnut blasting to remove carbon deposits from the intake valves.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L B48 Four-Cylinder (John Cooper Works)

  • No Issues Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, or inability to engage gears.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch and other associated components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

  • Mechatronic Unit Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shuddering or hesitation, difficulty shifting gears, or loss of power.
    • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Strut Mount Bearing Noise:
    • Description/Symptoms: A clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension when driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty strut mount bearings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Electrical Harness Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Electrical system malfunctions, such as flickering lights, loss of power, or engine stalling.
    • Solution: Inspecting and repairing or replacing the faulty wiring harness.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Instrument Cluster Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Flickering or blank instrument cluster display.
    • Solution: Replacing or repairing the faulty instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2021 Mini Cooper has some reliability concerns, particularly with its engine, transmission, and electrical system. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to major repairs that can be costly. However, it is important to note that not all Mini Coopers will experience these problems.

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