2016 Mini Cooper
Only 28 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 28 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2001 | 6 |
| 2002 | 187 |
| 2003 | 320 |
| 2004 | 282 |
| 2005 | 372 |
| 2006 | 200 |
| 2007 | 115 |
| 2008 | 115 |
| 2009 | 150 |
| 2010 | 92 |
| 2011 | 82 |
| 2012 | 65 |
| 2013 | 47 |
| 2014 | 34 |
| 2015 | 54 |
| 2016 | 28 |
| 2017 | 28 |
| 2018 | 8 |
| 2019 | 12 |
| 2020 | 7 |
| 2021 | 7 |
| 2022 | 6 |
| 2023 | 7 |
| 2024 | 1 |
| 2025 | 1 |
| 2026 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 28 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
10 of 28 total reports mention: engine.
8 of 28 total reports mention: exterior lighting.
8 of 28 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
There is a design issue resulting in failure of the connector for the rear tail light assembly. The connector corrodes and the plastic plug housing melts.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240101
6 of 28 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
Error signal "Secure vehicle with parking brake when stopped" Mini dealer says "common problem" with Mini transmissions and always due to fluid leaking thru shifter onto gear shift mechanism. Lots of forums stating this is common.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231223
2 of 28 total reports mention: air bags.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF HER SON WHO OWNED A 2016 MINI COOPER S.
NHTSA ODI report, 20201123
WAS IN A SIGNIFICANT MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT ON 2.18.20. DRIVING ON US-98WEST 2016 MINI COOPER 4DOOR WHEN LARGE CHEVY2500 PICKUP TRUCK STOPPED SUDDENLY IN FRONT OF ME. I WAS TRAVELING AT ABOUT 45-50MPH. I WAS WEARING MY SEATBELT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200303
SAFETY TIMELINE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper two-door vehicles, 2015-2016 MINI John Cooper Works and MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper four-door vehicles and 2014-2015 BMW i3 vehicles.
Remedy: MINI and BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on November 25, 2015.
Campaign 15V628000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2016 Mini Cooper — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (10 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 15V628000 (air bags) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2016 Mini Cooper reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Mini Cooper?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 36% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2016 Mini Cooper have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.