This only happens sometimes when I turn the key from 0 to start quickly (bypassing positions 1 & 2).

My fuel, temp (and other) gauges click and jitter for a second or two, then level off normally. I'm not terribly worried about it unless it's a sign of some failing component.

Any ideas?

'06 R53, no navigation or chrono, btw

 

Mine tend to do that randomly too. or at least when i notice it.

It also happened when my battery was dead.

 

TTT, for some weekend viewers and insight.

Still have the problem. Low battery? AutoZone checked it out fine. How about the starter drawing too many amps? I really can't afford to get stranded with a dead battery or starter issue first thing in the morning.

 

And now, adding to the above problem, my power door locks have (on random start-ups) begun to cycle. Does this sound like a battery problem to anyone?

Related note: I had been leaving my portable navigation module plugged into the cigarette lighter while the Mini sat overnight. I know the lighter socket isn't hot when the key is off but just to make sure that wasn't the problem, I've started leaving that unplugged.

I'm going back to A-Zone to recheck the battery.

 

So, an update.

Did the battery check again at AutoZone. Said my battery (factory, from '06 or so) was "at 60%". Makes sense, +5 years old. Replaced it. (And at $135! WTF?)

If I don't post anything else on this thread, that WAS the problem. I'll know in the next couple of days if/when the jittery gauges stop.

Side note about battery replacement: the radio and all gauges retained their memory, so I didn't need to reset anything after having no battery for around 20 minutes. Good on Mini for allowing this to happen.