Well many of you might know by now, my MINI has been a huge list of pains and problems. transmission went, creaks and squeaks, speaker blew and stalls. Well everything was "fixed" then it stalled yet again yesterday for the 5th time. (and its an CVT). Took it back to MINI and now they are sending the "computer" to mini. At the same time I went back to the dealer (Westchester MINI) and asked Lori (miniqueen) about a new car. Its looks like that might happen, but that remains to be seen. I called MINI directly and they said they will look into whats going on and a new car. Luckily Ill be able to drive this mini until the new one arrives. Also while I was at Westchester MINI I saw Lori's new MINI. The one that has an aero kit and is one big UJ flag over the whole car! Anyway she has the new alarm system in it. Its pretty sweet, the little red blinking light is located on the tip of the turn signal. I think I will be adding this option if I do get a new MINI. *sigh* this car is getting harder to like more and more. Also while at Westchester MINI another guy (daniel) who posts on this site walked in with the same problem. His car has stalled 3 times. However I still will be taking her on the Bear Mt. run, and I expect Lori's UJ Cooper to be there as well from what she said. Cant wait.

_________________
2003 Chilli Red Cooper, Bonnet Stripes, Nav System, Sport Package.

 

Hey NYI,
I do remember your early frustration and belief that the car was not for you. I hope you do end up with a new MINI and am glad to see that it's a least a viable option that the dealer and MINI are considering.
Jim

 

NYIllustrator,

If you get a new car, consider a switch to the manual 5-speed. Appears the CVT is ahead of it's time. Often design technology exceeds design for manufacturing capabilities.

Good Luck, you deserve it.

SMKKVK

 

NYI...was Westchester your original dealer? For some reason, I thought you'd bought from Manhattan. Am I wrong?

 

>>NYIllustrator,
>>
>>If you get a new car, consider a switch to the manual 5-speed. Appears the CVT is ahead of it's time. Often design technology exceeds design for manufacturing capabilities.
>>
>>Good Luck, you deserve it.
>>
>>SMKKVK
>>

Hey SMKKVK...I don't have a CVT (I have an S), but what's the basis for your opinion? Seems that there are no more CVT-related problems reported here than there are problems with other MINI transmissions. It's not a "new technology" problem, but the spate of frozen linkage cables that are impacting S owners is equally frustrating and perhaps more embarassing for MINI (it's a gasket for gosh sakes!!!).

I don't want to start that whole CVT vs. manual debate again, but it seems that a "don't get this" kind of warning ought to be backed up with more facts.

 

hope it all works out....
a new mini will do you just fine...considering the history of your current one.

peace,
d

 

What is the medalion in the grill of your Mini?

 

>>It's not a "new technology" problem
>>
>>I don't want to start that whole CVT vs. manual debate again, but it seems that a "don't get this" kind of warning ought to be backed up with more facts.
>> :smile:

I hope this helps someone who experiences the stalling problem.

 

>>>>It's not a "new technology" problem
>>>>
>>>>I don't want to start that whole CVT vs. manual debate again, but it seems that a "don't get this" kind of warning ought to be backed up with more facts.
------

Please read what I said: "Often design technology exceeds design for manufacturing capabilities". This addresses the manufacturing (and supply base)issues surrounding the introduction of new technology (new for MINI's mfg. and suppliers), not the automotive world).

I'm not debating CVT vs. Manual, it appears you two are.

 

Since I mentioned that Molly has only stalled on me twice since I figured out how to "prevent" the stalling and your message title suggests that 5 stalls is a lot, I feel like maybe I should say just a wee bit more...

I experience the "almost stall" virtually every day: I pull out of the garage, drive ~60 yards to the end of the driveway, turn onto the road, drive ~100 yards and come to a stop sign. At this stop sign Molly wants to stall almost everyday. So, since I figured out that letting up on the brake trick about 7 months ago, having her stall only twice afterwards is pretty good in my book.

After I get down the road, and Molly warms up - no more problem with her wanting to stall. Stop and go as normal.

 

I hope that they send you a new one. You deserve it. It has to be lemon lawed by now. Keep us posted on how your temp MINI is. It'll be interesting to see if it's how it should be, or not.

 

No I did originally but from Westchester, and my grill badge is a UJ flag. I have removed it though as the paint started to chip on it.

 

I had the same exact problems with Holly. Turns out is was a loose connection to my throttle. Every time it came loose, she would stall. Hope all turns out well with your girl!

 

NYI... good luck with getting everything straightened out! At least if you get a new one, the 2003 should have things ironed out. Hopefully,

By the way, if Lori is there, think you could snap a few pics of her UJ Mini for me? I'm trying to decide the thickness of stripes and stuff that I'm gonna do on mine. Won't be able to afford the paint for awhile, so I'm just gonna plan things out first.

 

Anthony's one of the few (from my store) who have had mutiple issuses with their MINI. I truly appreciate Anthony's patience on this very frustrating issue. I spoke with him earlier tonight and we're going to sit down this week to discuss a replacement MINI. I want all my customers to enjoy the MINI experience. I know he really enjoys his MINI (despite the problems) and I'm glad he wants to try again with another. Thanks Anthony for keeping the faith.

Lori Abrams
Motoring Manager
Westchester MINI, NY

 

Lori you are the best!

I sincerely hope someone at MINIUSA or BMWUSA is rewarding you fairly and looking after your future career advancement. You are indeed a bright star in the MINI universe and MINI/BMW are extremely lucky to have you as their ambassador to all of us.

I am proud to say I purchased my MINI at Westchester MINI from Lori Abrams. :smile:

All the best from 1800 miles away.

Dave