2003 MINI Cooper S recalls and problems
The 2003 MINI Cooper S has 2 safety recalls and 217 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any MINI dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 MINI Cooper S vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 MINI Cooper S recalls
Recall 15V-660: Steering
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2002-2005 MINI Cooper and Cooper S vehicles and 2005 Cooper and Cooper S Convertible vehicles. The affected vehicles may experience temporary or permanent loss of the electro-hydraulic steering assistance.
Risk: If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix: MINI will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the electro-hydraulic power steering system, replacing the components and wiring, as necessary, free of charge. Interim notices were mailed to owners on December 10, 2015. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525.
Recall 03V-086: Suspension
Problem: On certain vehicles, the lower screw connection of the rear struts to the chassis may fail. The head (Top) of the screw securing this connection may break. The remaining portion of the screw will still hold the strut in place.
Risk: If left unattended over a period of time, and depending on driving conditions, the remaining portion of the screw may break. If it broke, the chassis would lean directly on the tire diminishing the driver's ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the lower screw connection of the rear struts. Owner notification began april 7, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117.
2003 MINI Cooper S problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Steering | 133 | |
| Visibility | 33 | |
| Electrical System | 14 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 10 | |
| Power Train | 8 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 8 | |
| Suspension | 8 | |
| Air Bags | 7 | |
| Tires | 6 | |
| Structure | 6 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 5 | |
| Engine | 5 |
Most reported parts
- Visibility › Windshield — 29
- Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Pump — 6
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 5
- Power Train › Manual Transmission — 5
- Tires › Tread/Belt — 4
- Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist System — 4
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 3
- Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls — 3
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 70,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 MINI Cooper S complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other MINI Cooper S years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 MINI Cooper S have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 MINI Cooper S: 15V-660 (steering), 03V-086 (suspension). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 MINI Cooper S?
Owners report steering problems most often (133 reports), followed by visibility (33). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 70,000 miles.
Are MINI recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized MINI dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.