Hey, I was wondering if anyone has the same problem as me. It maybe that I'm new to driving stick. Here's the problem. When I shift to 1st gear and then press on the gas, I get a stall and it feels like it's going to die but it doesn't. To correct it, I keep my foot on the clutch longer than normal. Is this OK to do? or am I burning out the clutch doing this?

Also, I've had my MINI for about 3 weeks now and the shift **** is already wearing away.

I also find that the steering wheel is too slippery (maybe I have dry hands) Where can I buy a good steering wheel cover?

I'm also seeing water or something leak out of the bottom of my car. Is this normal?

 

When still new to manual transmission, you might find it a little easier if you turn of the AC when starting at a stoplight. You do need to get the revs up a bit when starting or it will bog down and nearly stall, so it is ok to use the clutch as you described.

Not sure how the shift **** is wearing away. . . .perhaps tootsie pop style?

I never like the look of steering wheel covers. Perhaps you might want to try a nice pair of driving gloves? MINIUSA has some pretty cool MINI logo ones.

Water can condense around AC components and drip and would be no big deal. If you are leaking coolant or oil or transmission fluid, etc, then it would be worth checking out.

Congrats on the brand new MINI.

 

Give a little bit more gas. The clutch needs a little getting use to.

 

It may not be your driving.

Sounds like you have the much-maligned and much-discussed first-gear "stumble" (aka "lurch&quot that affects most recent-build MCSs and any S that's been upgraded to the new engine control software. The thing is that I've never heard of it occuring in a standard Cooper (that's what you have, right?). Do you have DSC or just ASC?

Here's a thread on the stumble. Apparently, BMW/MINI is looking into a fix, but nothing concrete has been released.

 

Its very difficult to clearly determine what is actually causing the problem you describe. The exact sequence for a proper shift in any gear can change depending upon where you are driving and the weather conditions. Proper shifting is a very subtle sequance.
You mentioned this is your first stick shift ? What type of lessons did you have in order to learn how to shift properly? Its like riding a bicycle, you need someone to hold you up in the very biggining, but once you get the feel for it it becomes second nature. If you didn't have someone help you out, I strongly suggest you get some help as soon as possible, or you may wind up having a bigger problem than just stalling out.
Cars leak fluid all the time, sometimes its just condonsation from the AC or build up of road moisture that can get trapped in the nooks and crannies, but many Minis have had water pump problems. Whre is the leak? Does it have a color to it? If so what?