HELP car overheated and now won't start
 

so i got my mini stuck in the snow, and i was trying to get it out and overheated it, i got some one to pull me out but now when i go to start my car it starts up but doesnt go past 1000rpms and then dies right away, any thoughts?

How badly was it overheated?

Is the EML light on? Any codes?

pretty bad.... there was steam rolling out of it, but i believe the EML light comes on when you turn the key, so i cant tell if it stays on because the car doesnt start running...
i hope that helps

Reset the ECU with the battery.

If you can get it running, you can get a better idea of what kind of damage you did to the engine.

how exactly do i reset the ECU? unplug the battery?

Disconnect the negative terminal and let it sit for about 10 minutes, then try starting it again.

If the car is trying to go into limp, this should stop it from doing so.

ok thanks ill do that now...

so i just went out there and it started right up, with out having to reset the ecu, or do anything...

but thanks for all the help

You had snow/water/ice built up in the air inlet or filter box. When the engine needed air there wasn't enough. Later when it melted the problem was gone. Also can happen if you wash the MINI in sub zero temps and immediately shut it down. It can cause the air filter to frost over. The steam was simply snow melting against the hot radiator. Just a theory, but it has happened to me.