2012 MINI Cooper recalls and problems

The 2012 MINI Cooper has 1 safety recall and 66 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any MINI dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
66
Crashes / fires
1 / 7
Injuries / deaths
1 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2012 MINI Cooper vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2012 MINI Cooper recalls

Recall 23V-337: Electrical System

Reported May 11, 2023 · 97,933 vehicles affected · BMW of North America, LLC

Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2014 MINI Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Clubman John Cooper Works, and 2007-2013 MINI Hardtop 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. The electronic control module in the driver's side footwell area may short-circuit, due to corrosion from water and road salt.

Risk: An electrical short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the sunroof drains, interior footwell area, and FRM and, depending upon the results of the inspection, certain components will be replaced. Owner notification letters were mailed May 13, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-866-825-1525.

2012 MINI Cooper problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Electrical System28
Engine17
Air Bags16
Unknown or Other8
Exterior Lighting5
Fuel/Propulsion System4
Seats4
Power Train3
Service Brakes3
Seat Belts2
Engine and Engine Cooling1
Steering1

Most reported parts

  • Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front Passenger — 3
  • Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification — 2
  • Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 1
  • Structure › Body — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 54,000 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 2012 MINI Cooper complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Electrical System · reported Jul 16, 2026
This vin waa not included in a recall however had recall issues it obtained water in the footwell which mini has a recall issue for this and the car was caught on fire it is at the dealership in [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical System · reported May 25, 2026
ELECTRIC SHORT CIRCUIT. The electronic module in the driver side footwell area may short circuit. when I unlock the car or try to start, I hear loud electrical SHORT CIRCUIT noises coming out of the seating area. I am afraid to even unlock the car, and fear car might catch fire.
Electrical System · reported Feb 4, 2026
The electronic control module in the driver’s side footwell short-circuit, battery and electrical in the car are being drained and car does not work properly and completely drains battery.
Electrical System · reported Mar 2, 2025
My 2012 mini cooper has a Footwell Module recall and I took it to the dealer and they refused to replace it but they said i could pay to have it replaced even though it was a recall
Air Bags · reported Dec 4, 2024
Mini BMW is fully aware of an issue with their OC3 detection mat on the passengers side and offered a extended warranty of 10 years/ 100k miles. This is insufficient coverage for a crucial saftey part and has led to a grey market production of occupancy detection mats "emulators" which are being sold online as the only way to have your airbag system "functional".

Other MINI Cooper years

Compare all MINI Cooper years · All MINI models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2012 MINI Cooper have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2012 MINI Cooper: 23V-337 (electrical system). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2012 MINI Cooper?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (28 reports), followed by engine (17). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 54,000 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.