Hello! My R53's headlights will not turn on and none of my gauges are working (No Speedo, Tac, Fuel gauge, or temp.) My brights will come on but only if I hold them, they will not stay on if engaged. My Air conditioner also will not come on. I am really hoping this is not an ECU issue. The engine fans were not turning on at first as well, so the car was overheating. I brought it to a mechanic near me and he told me that the engine fans were dead and I needed a new alternator and AC control unit. After replacing the alternator and fans my overheating problem was resolved but still no gauges or AC. I didn't have him replace the AC control unit because I didn't believe that could be the problem, and I have a feeling it all has to be related. I've contacted several other mechanics, some specializing in MINI and none have ever heard of this problem. I've checked my fuses and none of them are blown. I've also tried an ECU reset, the gauges all max out for a second and then go right back to being dead. I'm hoping maybe you guys can help me, or may have some leads to what my problem may be. This is driving me crazy! Thank you guys so much

 

Don't know if this could be a possibility, but I heard it on Car Talk this weekend, and it might be relevant, maybe not...... But check the ignition switch. The key may not be returning to the "run" position on the ignition. Check it by manually turning it back to the correct position. Things like lights, gauges, and ac blower will not work if the key is in the "start" (all the way clockwise) position. If that is the issue, you can manually put it in the run position every time, or get a new ignition switch, then take all of the extra keys off your key ring.

Nik