This was tons easier than I expected. Here were the steps I took:

1) Located the wire under the bumper behind the foam insert - pulled down through the pre-formed opening and mounted the Light (which came from Outmotoring) - 10 minutes
2) Using a small flathead screwdriver (which I plasti-dipped to eliminate scratches) - I popped the toggle switch cover off and installed the new toggle switch - 2 minutes
3) Here's where it went a little squirrely - I hooked up the netbook and launched NCSExpert. I got to the step where you choose the module - the spreadsheet directions said the NEBEL_SCHLUSSLEUCHTE was in the IHKS module - but I didn't have that module. After poking around a bit I found it in the IHKA module. After seeing this post the NCSExpert thread, I decided to write it to the car. It didn't work. So I restored the original backup file, then tried it again. Once again - it didn't seem to work. However after a minute or so I heard a couple of clicks - then tried the toggle and the light on the dash came on . It is working perfectly now! It was probably OK on the first flash - I don't know why it took a little while, but the light on the dash eventually came on. This took about 30 minutes due to the putzing around I had to do with the NCSExpert.

 

Didn't see it mentioned anywhere but OutMotoring confirmed for me that the Cooper S and the JCW Aero Kit use the SAME rear fog light assembly.

Definitely adding this to my to-do list!

 

I just popped the lights in, and with a little effort, found the electrical sockets taped on the bottom of the bumper. While looking for the sockets, I reached up above the bumper cover on the driver's side and pulled down a rectangular black plastic box 4"x 1.5"x 3/4" with one wire coming into the end. It was just sitting up there loose. I've had body work done, so I'm wondering if they left something uninstalled. Anyone remember the link to the parts diagrams?

I can also confirm that even though the convertibles have only one fog switch (up controls the front, down controls the rear), you still have to program the switch.
Right now, up or down will turn on the fronts. I either have tho find someone to program it or take the point myself.

 

My toggle from way works programmed by helix
Rear fogs working on 2012

 

Does anyone know the appropriate VO # for a 2009 R57?

 

Just to update, I finally got the MINI dealer to program the rear fogs. It took them quite a while, apparently related to the fact that it was an R57 rather than an R56. The SA told me that the rear fog light indicator in the big speedo wouldn't work, but in fact, it does.

 

Has anyone removed the toggle switch cover like this recently? I get the top clips but am not sure if you have to also wedge the side clips also?

 

I was able to cleanly remove by pulling on the outer rings carefully with a small hook. Amazing how cleanly it comes out even with the notched tabs.

Now just need to find some good instructions on how to code the VO with NCSExpert for the fogs.

 

Old thread, but since I just did this, I thought I'd post my experience for anyone still looking to do this but discouraged by the amount of disassembly previously posted.

My 2012 S had the lights already installed as part of the bumper kit that came with this model. I was just lacking the switch and proper cover plate (plus the programming).

I don't know if there were changes through the years but considering the part is the same, you can assume this works back a few years, but the install of the switch and new plate took about 5 minutes - NO dash disassembly required.

Looped together two heavy locking ties through the toggle switch dividers on the face plate. Pulled tight on the ties, then gave a firm tug straight back. The cover popped right out. There are three tabs on top and two on the sides - nothing broke off, but even if they did, I didn't care since I'm replacing the cover.

Snapped in the switch (protruding notch goes towards the top), and snapped in the new face plate.

Still need the programming from the dealer, but I'll find out about that this week. Really happy with the full bank of switches.

Image 1: Lock ties around the old face plate
Image 2: Detail of side clip
Image 3: Detail of panel back and top clips
Image 4: New toggle and face plate installed

New face plate and toggle switch from Way Motor Works ($105 for plate and switch)

 

Careful doing that lock tie method. Its happen to a few that those dividers would pull right off. I personally think the hook method is safer.
Good luck getting the dealer to program the rear fog function. Some can, others can't because they don't know what they are doing. If anything ask some of the fine fellows here if they can help you out for a few bucks and 15 mins of their time.
It is cool having a whole line of switches and not just missing one.

 

As noted here by Euells,you might find it in the IHKA module instead...
It took about 15 minutes including the NCSExpert update (Did that first). Because of this excellent thread..
It should be noted that if you don't include this in your VO (and I didn't)
the next time your dealership updates the software the fog light may stop working. No problem just take the modified .man file you saved as a backup ( Backup? I don't need no stinkin' backup) and reload it.

 

hi guys, I was hoping to cleat up some stuff im reading here.

I have a 09 R55s and I wanted to fill the black spot as many of you wanted to do too, as well as having a working light.

1. im reading that parts alone will cost $100+, is there any place I can get them for cheaper? used parts are fine as long as they work for me.


2. Since I have an 09, it seems like that year is the only one people are having a lot of problems with. Im reading success stories for 2011 and 2012 2nd gens. I wanted to know the best possible way of attacking this problem where the dealerships flat out tell you it cant be done.