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Summary
  • The Mini Cooper Countryman is a reliable SUV with a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability score from RepairPal.
  • With proper maintenance, the Mini Cooper Countryman can last over 150,000 miles with little to no problems.
  • Some of the top Mini Cooper Countryman problems include transmission problems, clutch issues, and an exploding sunroof.

The Mini Cooper Countryman is a roomy SUV that has all the bells and whistles you want in a vehicle made by the iconic carmaker. Its stylish looks can match its reliability, performing well with its responsive handling and competent engine power. It can also hold value well, depreciating only 28% after five years, according to CarEdge.com.

Is the Mini Cooper Countryman Reliable?

RepairPal gives the Mini Cooper Countryman a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating, which places it 19th out of 21 vehicles in the same category. Aside from its performance and capability, it also offers a comfortable ride quality with its fine interiors and seats. However, first-time Mini owners may find its features confusing at first. If you take care of your Countryman properly by following its correct maintenance and service schedule, it can last over 150,000 miles with little to no problems.

2017 mini cooper countryman
The Mini Cooper Countryman is a roomy SUV that has all the bells and whistles you want in a vehicle made by the iconic carmaker.

2012 Mini Countryman Reliability

Let’s look at the reliability rating of one of the Countryman’s model years. J.D. Power scored the 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman 2 out of 5 in terms of reliability, which is noticeably low.

Despite the low score, the model is not subject to any major or minor safety recalls from National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA).

Top Mini Cooper Countryman Problems

Despite being a reliable vehicle, the Mini Cooper Countryman has its fair share of problems per model year. Here are the most common issues with various models of the Countryman:

Transmission Problems

The 2014 Mini Cooper Countryman can be susceptible to having various transmission problems. Transmission-related issues can include jumps during acceleration, abnormal noises, burnt smell coming from the hood, delayed shifting, excessive shakiness, and grinding. If not addressed immediately, these complications may progress, leading to poor fuel economy and total transmission failure. Experts advise owners to get their transmissions checked routinely to prevent any severe wear or damage. Also, practice proper transmission-care by inspecting and replacing your transmission fluid at appropriate intervals, which depends on how often you drive your SUV.

Exploding Sunroof

One of the most alarming issues with the 2013 Mini Cooper Countryman is its faulty sunroof, which may unexpectedly explode. According to reports, it may happen with low-mileage vehicles at around 11,000 miles. Some owners have experienced driving normally and suddenly hearing a loud explosion. They were alarmed and when they checked the back seat, the sunroof had shattered. This is extremely risky because the explosion and resulting debris may cause harm to the vehicle’s occupants. Some owners have shared that repair costs may be covered by the vehicle’s warranty, but it’s best to confirm with your dealership first. They have also reported that replacing the sunroof with shatterproof material can help resolve this issue.

Clutch Issues

Common problems with the 2013 Mini Cooper Countryman often involve the clutch. Many owners have reported that it wore out prematurely, usually around 66,000 miles, making it hard to shift gears. Most of them had to replace the clutch to resolve the issue.

Overheating Engine

The 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman’s engine problems are common, ranging from mild to severe. According to reports, its engine tends to overheat, usually linked to water pump failure. Some have reported that they encountered various troublesome issues, such as illuminated check engine lights, blown head gaskets, coolant leaks, and total engine failure. However, other Countryman owners have reported that overheating can also be caused by bad core plugs, which can fail and cause coolant leaks.

Replacing faulty parts can help, but some owners have reported that they had trouble finding the right components to fix their vehicles. Symptoms may start setting in at around 39,000 miles. If you notice any engine-related issues in your 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman, consult your mechanic immediately to get ahead of further complications.

Internal Oil Leaks

One of the most notable 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman problems is its tendency to develop internal oil leaks, which are not visible from outside the vehicle. One owner has shared that during a component replacement, the mechanic spotted an oil leak from the oil pump solenoid valve. The oil was dripping down towards the wiring sheath. If the oil gets on your electronic control unit (ECU), it can short and cause severe damage. According to reports, this is a common problem that may happen with other different Mini models as well. It’s best to get your Countryman regularly checked for any internal oil leaks to prevent oil dripping on other components connected to your electrical system.

Faulty Seat Belt Alarms

The 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman can develop an annoying issue with its seatbelts, which have alarms that may intermittently go off for no apparent reason. This generally happens with relatively new vehicles with just around 4,800 to 9,000 miles on them. Some owners have shared that their alarms would turn on even if the seatbelts were securely fastened. They have also reported that they have tried restarting the engine to turn off the alarm, but it would randomly happen again after a while. Some have tried getting their vehicles checked by their mechanics, but they could not find anything wrong. If you’re experiencing this with your Countryman, you’re definitely not the only one.

Malfunctioning Airbags

Among multiple 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman problems, airbag malfunction is common with low-mileage vehicles. Some owners have reported that their airbags deployed erroneously at mild impact. The most common sign of airbag problems is an illuminated “passenger airbag off” light, which can be found in the vehicle’s overhead console. Symptoms can usually set in as early as 5,000 miles to 24,000 miles. There is no clear cause linked to these airbag issues. Some have taken their vehicles to their dealerships, but mechanics were not able to detect any problems. All components and systems have turned out with normal results after diagnosis. If you’re experiencing the same symptoms with your Cooper Countryman’s airbags, consult your mechanic as soon as possible.

mini cooper countryman interior
One of the common problems reported about the Mini Cooper Countryman is its malfunctioning airbag.

Loud Grinding Brakes

The 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman may develop loud, grinding noises from its brakes. Some owners have experienced this with low-mileage vehicles that have less than 2,000 miles on them. They have tried taking their SUVs to their dealerships to replace their brake pads and rotors, but it kept on happening again. They’ve found it alarming because the loud grinding can get worse despite getting repairs done. Some have shared that they had to visit their dealerships multiple times, but mechanics could not find anything wrong with the vehicle. Some have expressed anxiety at this issue because they felt unsafe, driving their fairly new vehicles with grinding brakes.

Whether you’re buying a new or used Mini Cooper Countryman, you must be prepared for its potential problems. As a responsible vehicle owner, you must research and take note of the most common issues you may encounter with the model year you’re interested in, so you can manage them well as they happen. Just make sure you iron out all important details with your seller before making any purchases.

Where to Get New Parts for Your Mini Cooper Countryman

Even a car as awesome as your Mini Cooper Countryman will need repairs to keep it in tip-top shape for a long time.

Fortunately, it’s easy to find replacement parts and accessories for your Mini Cooper Countryman here at CarParts.com.

We have a wide selection of direct-fit replacements for your Countryman. Simply enter your Mini Cooper’s specifications into our vehicle selector to start browsing our catalog. You can also use the search filters to find parts according to your preferred brand, price range, quantity, and more.

Need assistance checking for fitment or tracking your order? Don’t worry! Our toll-free hotlines are open 24/7.

Thanks to our strategically located warehouses across the US, you can get your order delivered to your doorstep in as fast as two business days.

Enjoy the best prices when you shop online. All our products come with low-price and lifetime replacement guarantees, so you never have to worry about spending a fortune on repairs.

Don’t miss out on the best deals on the market, and order your new Mini Cooper Countryman parts today!

About The Authors
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Reviewed By Automotive Features Reviewer at CarParts.com

Lisa Conant grew up in Canada around a solid contingency of gear heads and DIY motor enthusiasts. She is an eclectic writer with a varied repertoire in the automotive industry, including research pieces with a focus on daily drivers and recreational vehicles. Lisa has written for Car Bibles and The Drive.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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Eartha's Mom

My 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman has 95k miles, two owners and excellent service history and records. Last week it gave an engine error message, common and my mechanic has addressed it several times over the last 30,000 miles since I have owned it. On my way into the garage, 5 miles away, the oil pump failed and the motor seized. Given the low miles, I was hopeful my Mini dealer would do something. Here is Mini of Loveland’s response.
Due to the age & mileage on your vehicle, MINI corporate has declined to offer any assistance with repairs. The cost for a new motor, $12,000. I will donate the car and never buy a Mini again.

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