The reason for starting problems in a Mini Cooper is widespread, with some being a relatively easy fix and others requiring professional attention. Mini Cooper models aren’t any more prone to starting problems than any other type of vehicle, so most of the common culprits for starting problems in other vehicles come into play in this type of malfunction for a Mini Cooper, too. Let’s take a look at what it might mean for you if your Mini Cooper won’t start and how you can get it fixed.

Common Causes of Mini Cooper Starting Problems

If you go out to start your Mini Cooper and it won’t turn on, it can help to know what the common causes of this issue are and how you can troubleshoot them. Although we don’t recommend working on your vehicle, these points will give you a place to start.

• Dead Key Fob Battery: After consistent use, the key fob in your battery can go dead. You can get a new battery at your local automotive store, general store, or repair shop.
• Dead Vehicle (12V) Battery: Whether you left your lights on overnight or you have a weak battery, a dead battery will certainly prevent your Mini Cooper from starting.
• Battery Terminal Corrosion: Corrosion can build up on the top of the battery where your cables plug in. You can gently wipe this area off to see if this is the cause of your starting problem.
• Faulty Alternator: Required to start a vehicle, a faulty alternator will prevent the initial spark necessary to start your vehicle from striking.
• Clogged or Dirty Fuel Filter: Over time, your Mini Cooper’s fuel filter can become dirty or clogged, but a technician can quickly replace this component and get you back on the road.
• Malfunctioning Starter: There are many reasons for this to occur, so it’s best to leave this to the professionals. Just note, it is a common cause for starting problems in vehicles.
• Blown Fuse: Most people don’t think to look at their fuses when their vehicle won’t start, but this is a common problem and can be easily fixed with a new fuse.
• Lack of Gas: While it may seem like a no-brainer, it can be easy to forget to get fuel on your way home. Unfortunately, if your gas level is too low, your Mini Cooper won’t start.
• Engine Immobilizer Initiation: When someone has tried to get into your Mini Cooper, the safety system will immobilize itself to prevent theft. Instructions in your Owner’s Manual should help you get around this feature.

What To Do When Your Mini Cooper Won’t Start

Sometimes, it isn’t always possible to take your Mini Cooper to the repair shop when it won’t start. While we wouldn’t advise working on it yourself, there are some things you can do to try to get it to the repair shop.

• Test the 12V Battery: To determine if your battery is the issue, a simple voltage test can be performed to test the amount of power traveling back and forth. A service technician has access to the tool necessary to perform this task.
• Jump Start Your Vehicle: When your vehicle won’t start, it can be extremely inconvenient if you need to get out of someone else’s way. You can always jump-start it with jumper cables and the battery from another vehicle. However, we don’t recommend driving your Mini Cooper far after it wouldn’t start in the first place.
• Look for a Second Key Fob: If your key fob’s battery is the reason why your Mini Cooper won’t start, you can use a second key or put your key as close to the ignition as possible while pressing the start/stop button. Sometimes, this small interaction is all it takes to get your Mini Cooper going so you can follow through with replacing your defective key fob.

Bring Your Mini Cooper Into Das European Autohaus

When you’ve tried everything to get your Mini Cooper to start to no avail, it is time to bring your vehicle to our professionals at Das European Autohaus. The technicians at our location service a variety of European luxury models and are focused on providing top-quality work with high attention to detail.

As the leading service and repair facility for European vehicles in the areas of Spring, TX, Das European Autohaus will repair your Mini Cooper quickly and reliably. Give us a call today at (281) 235-5934, and let us take a look at your Mini Cooper.