So i purchased my first mini today, an 06 S with about 20k miles on it. Driving around this evening, i was caught in a deep puddle and hydroplaned into a curb. Alignment is definitely off, if not more. It drives well enough to get it into work tomorrow to see what's wrong with the suspension, but there's another thing getting to me. Whenever i switch on the fogs, they won't turn off and the windows will go down, but not up. Also the panel housing the controls for windows, dtc, and all that goes dim when the fogs get switched on. What's going on? Any suggestions other than going to the dealer? Why did an impact on the front right affect the electronics so much?

John

 

Warranty doesn't cover stupid, and suggestions?

 

You might have an "auto-up" circuit installed in your dash. Try these:
1. With a window down, flick the up switch twice in quick succession. Does the window go up on its own?
2. With the lights on, flick the fog switch in the opposite way you usually do; i.e., down instead of up, or up instead of down. Do the windows still go down?

If I am right, you can either remove the circuit or install it correctly. If I am wrong, that is one weird problem.

 

You have a Collision Claim through your insurance.

That sounds like a very expensive repair if you're dealing with suspension and electrical. Turn in the claim unless you have a very large Collision deductible and/or your driving record is already reason for your insurance company to possibly terminate your policy.

And btw, if you hadn't reported the newly purchased MINI to your insurance company yet, don't worry. It would still qualify for coverage as a "Newly Acquired Car". Insurers give various number of days to report the new car to them... for us (State Farm), our standard is 14 days in most States.

Good luck with your repairs.