Ok gang- first REAL issue I've had. Hoping it's minor and you all will have some great tips. For that past year Ive ben getting the the "excessive battery drain" warning. Had it checked out at the dealer and it all checks out. I've mainly got the sub-15 mile trip to work each morning that keeps the battery from getting charged via alternator. Solution? Get the trickle charger installed. On my most recent visit (last week) got it installed (why so long? Im in AK and live 250 miles plus 18 hour ferry to Anchorage).
This morning my wife went out to start the car for work and failed to unplug the trickle charger before starting the car. Lights flashed on, ignition like noise (not fully turned over)- then nothing. All lights off. Take fob out, reinsert and everything behaves correctly (interior lights, dash without warnings, etc). Try to start again, same behavior.

Not sure where to start, will begin diagnosing when I get home tonight. If you guys/gals have any great ideas, Id love to hear them!

Thanks in advance.

 

I'm guessing that 4 years in your environment is a full lifetime for the battery. I'd replace it. Also what kind of trickle charger? I'm not sure all types are going to work well in the Mini.

 

Sorry for the delay in posting the solution. Yep, looks like it was the battery that was shot. Car jumped fine after work, placed battery on charger but it would never turn the vehicle over. So, 30 minutes later- new battery and bam! Back in business. Thanks!

 

Same issue with my 2011 CMS. Battery only lasted 3 1/2 years. $288 at dealer to replace, ouch. I hope that is not typical lifetime of a MINI OEM battery. I thought it was an electrical problem dragging the battery down, so I took it to the dealer. When told it was the battery, I had the dealer replace it since the car was already there. Otherwise, it seems a straight forward DIY job.

 

Late to the game but watch when your battery is replaced. My car came with an AGM, lasted almost 5 years. The dealer replaced with a wet cell and reprogrammed the the car without telling me. I would have done another AGM. If you switch battery type make sure you get the programming updated or you'll shorten your battery life.

 

extreme heat or extreme cold seem to kill these batteries early. Most people in FL, CA , TX and far north seem to have to replace them more. Especially in the MINI. If its IBS get the reset.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...mpossible.html