I've got an 03 Cooper S, that for the past few months or so had been making quite the obnoxious noise when I started it. the noise itself only last for a few seconds and then disappeared. I took it in to get looked at to see what the problem may be and the mechanic told me that the started was not fully disengaging, which in turn means a new starter is need. A lot better then what I thought it was, but still. For them to fix it, it would be around 500 bucks, the part itself (from what I have found) is around 206 or so, and then the rest of that would be labor.
My question is, does anyone know or have experience in replacing the starters in the cooper s? if so, is it extremely difficult? Or is it just like in most other cars? And is there a certain starter i should buy, or does it not really matter?

Thanks, Maggie! =]

 

a) replacing a starter is pretty straight forward, you are correct about that. A few mounting bolts and one big wire usually; but I believe 3 here. Question is access....

b) That is the rub here, looking at the proceedure in the Haynes it starts by telling you to remove the exhaust manifold...

c) I'm not aware of another source for a MINI starter yet...but you could talk to your local autopart store as rebuilds are usually the way to go - that is they sell rebuilt starters. A starter is a starter for the most part....if it fits. Or, look in your Yellow Pages for an automotive electrical shop because starters are very rebuildable. Often failure to fully disengage is a lubrication issue that's easy to fix once the starter is off the car (but most of my experience is with my 79 or the zoo choo choo train!)

d) if this seems beyond your DIY skills I'd look for a MINI savy mechanic other than the dealer and would expect a cost 20 to 50% less . . . This would be MUCH easier working on a lift rather than under jackstands or ramps btw . . .

 

When you have that starter out make sure & inspect the ring gear on the flywheel. If the drive on the starter is chewed up there is a good possibility that the ring gear will be also.