04' Cooper S Gearshift

[b19rak]

Hi, just bought a Cooper S. I'm finding the gearshift a bit stiff compared to any other car i have driven. Is this a normal Mini trait?
It feels like a similar action to my old Audi TT but a lot stiffer.

[baSkey]

mine was really really stiff when new. the now wife couldn't even engage reverse until it had warmed a bit.

nowadays if it's cold it can be a bit stiff but not really stiff.

depends what you've come from i guess. if i drive something likea focus then the mini does seem a fair bit more 'mechanical'.

[b19rak]

Mechanical is exactly how i would describe it. Its still relatively low mileage at 27k so im hoping it might loosen up slightly.

[blackspider]

Either the cables are siezing or the gear selector linkages are siezing-quite common-the gearbox can be lubricated to free them up-not so easy to get too.the cables are replaceable

[b19rak]

The car has done 27k miles 2004, i've just bought it with 7 months mini cherised warranty. Do you think it would be covered under warranty.

[blackspider]

Yes it will be

[b19rak]

Update:

Car was taken into Sytner Coventry on Tuesday for an Insp1 service and to have a look at this stiff gearshift. I get a call Tuesday afternoon to say service done but needs new gearbox. Thankgod i have cherished warranty!! Would have cost a fortune ohterwise.

I asked if the gearbox was knackered as it was just stiff, no actual crunching or other difficulties. I got the impression they couldn't be arsed to investigate and just ordered a new one. Hopefully it should be a nice slick shift now.

Picking it up later.

[classiccooper]

My sister had to have a new gearbox in her 2004 Cooper also, after about 20k miles.

[b19rak]

They must be aware these are failing.

[blackspider]

They need to check thier PuMA measures(technical)...

Because its cherished they are more likely to get away with fitting a new one-thats lazy.

Edited by blackspider on Thursday 3rd May 15:54

[baSkey]

i know the cooper box is a bit weak - it's the old peugeot thing. that s apparently why the D has the Ses 6spd box.

so we all know what to do - if it seems as tgough it's getting a bit stiff trade it in...