My new 2014 Paceman S ALL4 less than a month old apparently is not designed for cold weather. Ever since the mornings have been in the 30s and 40s the engine sputters to the point like it sounds it's about to stall, makes a popping sound, and even rattles a little. My husband's 2014 CM S ALL4 purchased in August does NOT do the same thing. After about a minute it stops making the noises and runs like a dream.

I took it to Dealer and they told me this is normal. Am I crazy? This is my third MINI living in the same location, and I have never had a cold start issue. Why wouldn't my husband's CM do the same thing if this is normal? I posed all these questions to them, and insisted they check it again.

Should I continue to persue this with the dealer?

Lolo

 

I've not had any issues with mine starting up and it's been in the 20's here overnight, however mine is in a garage so it's usually in the 40s in the morning. I'll see if I feel something when it's sitting outside.

 

My 2013 Countryman S All 4 (N18 engine) doesn't do it and the weather here has been cold lately (32F currently). My 2010 Hardtop did exhibit this occasionally on cold days but I believe carbon buildup issues in my N14 engine had something to do with it. Since you have the N18 in your Paceman I doubt carbon is the issue though.

 

Quick update:
The MINI dealer has acknowledged that this is not normal, and they are following their Test Plan to resolve the issue. So far they have changed the spark plugs (which did not work), and tomorrow it will be the oxygen sensor. After that they may have to open a ticket with MINI USA for additional assistance.

Meanwhile, I am having withdrawal symptoms, hot and cold flashes, and flying elephants. I need a MINI fix and soon! Going to pick up a loaner either this afternoon or tomorrow morning. :-(

Lolo

 

Good luck! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

 

Final Update:
The dealer was able to resolve the cold start problem by replacing 4 fuel injectors. The car now starts great in the chilliest of temps. No more sputtering, stalling or popping, and I am pleased with the end result.

I hope this does not happen to anyone else, but if it does hopefully this will help.

Thanks for the support

Lolo

 

Glad the dealer was able to fix the issue. Happy Holidays!

 

I had a similar issue in my '12 MCS. They replaced all the injectors and it has been fine since. It didn't like cold weather under 30 deg either at the time.

 

I'm having a similar problem, but accompanied by a rattle at cold start (when idling). (Video: )

Dealership service center couldn't replicate the rattle or the check engine light - then of course it happened again this morning. The thing that concerns me about the rattle is that sometimes in the first 10 minutes of driving it intermittently sounds like rocks in a tin can (which to me says a timing problem).