Hi . . I have my CVT for almost one week now. . . Runs just perfectly . . . not a single problem of note - EXCEPT: Yesterday, in 82 degree temp. the A/C was on. With the A/C on, the RPM's hover at about 1100 at idle. Bear in mind I've used the A/C constantly since taking delivery. No problem whatsoever, until I came to a traffic light yesterday. Suddenly, the RPM's dropped dramatically. No stall . . .and only one time in 600 miles. But . . it was certainly a surprise. Made me wonder what's ahead? It would be useless to bring the car in for a look as there is virtually no way I can duplicate this. I'm a little concerned because I am planning a 1300 mile trip with the MC in a few weeks. Anyone know what, if any, this issue is? Thanks in advance. . .Peter BTW, my MC is a May '03 production vehicle.

 

this is pretty normal for cvt's.
i've heard good things about the latest update 33.2 for cvt's.
when you have time get it done, if this is all that is or was wrong, i wouldn't sweat it for your trip!

 

I assume I have the 33.2 since my car was produced in May and delivered June 10th. How can I tell which software I am using? Peter

 

you really can't tell, it's something that only the dealer/mechanic can find out for you!
if you're pissed about the fault, bring it in. they will do something for you!

 

Peterun,

I took delivery of my 2003 MINI COOPER CVT on June 7th (May 16th build) and with only 300 miles on it, the same thing happened to me, although my AC was not on at the time: I was stopped at a traffic light...the RPMs dropped to below their "normal" idle position of 900 RPM, to about say, 800 or less. The car shuddered a bit, but "recovered" in about 5 seconds and did not stall out completely. It got me worried, but hasn't happened since. And only happened once. Better not happen again though! The worst feeling in the world is having a car that seems like it's going to stall... it's like you never know.

I love the CVT so far though...great car, great tranny.

Rock on,

Joe (boognish)