I searched for about 30 pages or so and found a few similar threads, but none that really help my situation.

A few weeks ago on one occasion my phone (Evo 4G w/ custom rom) didn't automatically pair with my car. I was baffled for a minute but it worked fine after I manually connected to the MINI through the bluetooth settings. All has been well since. No random disconnects, no issues at all.

Fast forward to tonight...Same thing happens only now forcing the phone to connect does nothing. I deleted the pairing and tried to start over, but it appears the car is no longer sending a signal when I try to pair. I tried with my brothers phone (stock EVO 4g) and same results. Both phones pick up pairing signals from other devices but neither will recognize the MINI.

Any ideas?

 

After letting the car sit overnight, the bluetooth started sending a signal again. Apparently the "TCU" reset after the car went to sleep and fully shut down last night. At least thats what my BMW/MINI tech friend told me. So if anyone has this issue just let it sit for a few hours and try again.

 

Thanks for the info Nealuss. I learn something new about my quirky car every day.

 

It always connects quicker if the phone BT signal is on before you put the key in

 

I have this same problem, except mine never came back.

 

Me too. Do I need to replace the TCU?

 

My friend who I mentioned earlier also told me that sometimes the module has to be reprogrammed by the dealer or an independent shop with the proper software. He says most of the time it comes back after the car goes to sleep (parked for 6-8 hours) but in other cases reprogramming is the only solution.

 

Don't know if this would work on a MINI or not, but the same thing happened on my 330i once. With the battery disconnected, I unplugged the TCU and let it sit for 30 min, replugged and then started car and it was up and running again.

 

Is the TCU the same as the MULF2 under the drivers seat. If not, where would I find it?