Are there 2017/18 Cooper S issues
Are there 2017/18 Cooper S issues
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Discussion

TTB

Original Poster:

13,984 posts

258 months

Wednesday
quotequote all
Hi all - I'm looking at 2017/18 MY Cooper S and Cooper S works MINIs and wanted to check how reliable these are or if there are any common issues?
I know the early turbocharged cars had a number of issues with timing chains - I guess thats sorted for these?

WayOutWest

1,074 posts

82 months

Wednesday
quotequote all
It's a completely different engine to the previous generation. In comparative terms they are way better built as a car overall, and the engine in particular way more reliable. Google AI says:
Yes, the F56 Mini Cooper S (2014–2024) is generally considered a very reliable car, representing a massive improvement over its predecessors. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged B48 engine is a solid unit used across many BMW models. While it has few common, high-severity engine issues, earlier models have some known problems to look for.
Key Reliability Details:

Engine & Drivetrain: The B48 engine is robust and avoids the major timing chain issues of the previous generation (R56).
Known Issues: Early Cooper S models (January 2014 – February 2015) can suffer from crankshaft bearing issues that may require engine replacement.
Other Potential Faults: Some owners report failing engine/motor mounts (heard as a thud upon startup) and occasional oil solenoid issues.
Maintenance: While generally reliable, the Cooper S can be expensive to repair, so regular, rigorous maintenance is crucial.

Overall, the F56 is considered a "fix-it-and-forget-it" car compared to its predecessors, with many owners reporting few to no issues with higher-mileage vehicles.


To remap or not remap is the question though...it is tempting to get circa 270bhp from a Stage 1.

I do think the F56 lacks a little of the fizz and fun of previous gens though having owned all three.


TTB

Original Poster:

13,984 posts

258 months

Wednesday
quotequote all
Thank you smile and yes, remap may be in the cards if I get one

Edited by TTB on Wednesday 22 April 17:18

WayOutWest

1,074 posts

82 months

Wednesday
quotequote all
TTB said:
Thank you ? and yes, remap may be in the cards if I get one
I have a Works 210, worth seeking out if you can find one. And it's arguably fine as is but as I approach a year of ownership and the insurance renewal comes up I can't help but think it might be a good time to remap it.
I do think 2017-18 is a good year to go for as early niggles rectified but pre-OPF so they sound a bit rortier.

twokcc

1,020 posts

201 months

Thursday
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From April 2018 ter Getrag 7 speed DCT was fitted -breat gearbox if you want auto.
Decide on extras you want every Cooper s is to an individual spec.upuntil about 68 plates when Mini started bundling them into packs