You are currently viewing our forum as a guest, which gives you limited access to view most discussions and access our other features. By joining our community, at no cost, you will have access to post topics, communicate privately with other members (PM), respond to polls, upload content and access many other special features. Registration is free, fast and simple, so please join our community today!
Pulling into a parking lot here, on campus today and it was like my electrical system just gave out - my power steering was gone, the ABS light came on - but the engine was still running. I was able to keep going and get into a parking spot.
I've had some weird 'electrical' issues in the past
-windows randomly not working
-drivers side lock not working with fob
- and recently just yesterday the overhead clock decided not to display if either the engine or headlights were turned on
Now, when I put the key in the ignition all the dash lights come up and everything *looks* ok....
when the key is turned it sounds like something is trying to turn over, but here the strange part...each time it tries to turn over my drivers side window goes down about an inch.
After the key is let go there are some noises and the center speedometer needle goes crazy and flops around rapidly around 0
I've done a reset of the computer, checked the engine grounds, and checked the battery and contacts for any corrosion.
It sounds like your battery is on the way out. Apparently when they get weak, the electronics in the car go wonky from what I have read. Is your battery original and what year is your MINI?
__________________ RIP (Horace): 2010 MCCSa HzB/B; His (Capt. Jack Aubrey): 2011 MCSa SO/B; Hers (on order) 2012 MCCSa BRG2/B
Yes, this is probably the correct diagnosis. The ECM (electrical control module) will cause crazy things to happen if it does not get enough voltage from the battery. I had the same symptoms you had (window inching down when starting), and it was a bad battery.
That's really bizzare, but I'll almost be glad if it's a simple fix like that.
I have a 2004 MCS - the thing is I just replaced the battery last year when I replaced my clutch.
Talking about the BATTERY, just how long willl the original unit last ? ? ?
Most batteries will say how many months its rated to last but I can't see any such rating on the Mini Battery.
Also, instead of buying a battery from Mini, what other choices do I have?
Any suggestions ??? I would like to know as mine is now 4 years old.
Thanks, MK
I just got off the phone with AutoZone, where I purchased my battery last year. They have a substantial warranty (which I'm hoping to be able to take advantage of) and I believe the battery was priced around $130 with $12 off if you bring them the old battery
At Autozone they should be able to hook up a simple diagnostics test and tell you if it is the battery or something else. I am sure they will be anxious to do it since if they can prove your alternator is bad they wont have to warranty the battery. And the best news is that it is typically free for them to check!
__________________ 2006 MCS JCW
At a New Home: 2002 Pure Silver MCS, 2003 Electric Blue MCS
Other car: 1971 Triumph TR6 www.triumphowners.com/108
Depending on how much charge the battery lost, you may consider your alternator is not properly recharging it. Keep an eye out for future electrical anomolies.
__________________
'06 MCS, AB/DS, #1/#2/#3, RMW Tuned, 15%, DDM CAI, GP IC w/DDM GP div., DT BPV, Brisk silver plugs, Invidia exh., M7 Ext. Scoop, GReddy AFR/boost gauges, M7/Cobalt F/R st. bars, H&R 25mm comp. R swaybar, BBS RK rims, Kicker speakers/amp/sub, Rock-Fos 1F cap, Westin driving lights, Angel Eyes lights, Gear Jammin' LED tail lights
MiniKar:
Impossible to say how long a battery will last as it widely varies and everyone has different daily drives. I would think that someone who drives very short trips daily will experience shorter battery life than someone who has longer drives (battery has longer time to fully recharge).
__________________ RIP (Horace): 2010 MCCSa HzB/B; His (Capt. Jack Aubrey): 2011 MCSa SO/B; Hers (on order) 2012 MCCSa BRG2/B
Trip and distance travelled should not make a difference. So long as the alternator is above 2,000 RPM or so, it will immediately start recharging the battery. I've even had cars sit for a month in the winter and still have enough charge to start up.
__________________
'06 MCS, AB/DS, #1/#2/#3, RMW Tuned, 15%, DDM CAI, GP IC w/DDM GP div., DT BPV, Brisk silver plugs, Invidia exh., M7 Ext. Scoop, GReddy AFR/boost gauges, M7/Cobalt F/R st. bars, H&R 25mm comp. R swaybar, BBS RK rims, Kicker speakers/amp/sub, Rock-Fos 1F cap, Westin driving lights, Angel Eyes lights, Gear Jammin' LED tail lights
RIP (Horace): 2010 MCCSa HzB/B; His (Capt. Jack Aubrey): 2011 MCSa SO/B; Hers (on order) 2012 MCCSa BRG2/B
