My 05 MCSc has the black blanking cover where the RR fog Light would be (above the exhaust). There is a wire harness plug behind this cover. I know that some manufacturers will tuck unused wires when the options do not call for their use. My questions are this:

1 - Is the plug functional?

2 - What would be driving it's power? (i.e. brake light, fog lights, reverse lights)

I want to put a clear lens assembly in this spot so that when I change the tail lights I can still have reverse lights.

Any help is greatly appreciated! THANKS!

 

Hi and welcome to NAM.
1- Yes the plug is functional, but...
2-...at present, it has no power.

I have an '06 MCSc, and my first mod was to turn that blank into a reverse light. I did that by purchasing a kit from a (now defunct) vendor, but there may be some recourse for you. Back in '09, that vendor's stock was purchased by one of the sponsoring vendors here on NAM...Way Motor Works. You should call Way and ask him if he's still got the MyMini Backup Light kit in stock (It came in two kinds...red lens or clear lens.)

The kit contains a light housing and a wire (containing an in-line electrical do-hickey) to route the reverse light power to the wire that goes to the socket. (I think the do-hickey is something that allows current in only one direction.)

If the kit is not available, OutMotoring sells just the clear lens housing and if you're handy, you can wire it up yourself. I still have my instruction sheet, so if you need help identifying the wires, let me know and I can help you.

Before you do anything, however, read this thread

Good luck, and enjoy the ride!

 

The plug is connected to a controller module in the front passenger footwell, but the rear fog doesn't function unless the dealer activates it through programming.

It can be used for other purposes besides a rear fog. You can make it operate as an extra brake or reverse light. You don't have to rewire, just add a jumper between two wires in the main wiring harness. This vendor sells jumper kits: http://gominigo.com/BLK-MINI.html.

Or make the light do everything, as I have done: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...d-extreme.html

 

Thanks for the quick & helpful info -- I've found the light assembly online & now just have to figure out the best way for me to go.

rkw - i'd love to go the same route you did with the dual purpose light but I'm not that mechanically gifted & would end up going through 4 or 5 light assemblies trying to mount the LED board. I'll buy the parts if you'll assemble it as a kit!?!?