Hello. I've got a 2004 Mini Cooper base model, automatic transmission. Just had it in at the shop cause of some issues, had burnt exhaust valves fixed. But my main concern is still present - when I first shift the car into drive after it's been sitting for a while (in the morning, after work, etc), it seems like the shift is very rough. This also causes the RPMs to drop really low (shifting to reverses drops by maybe 200, but this drops by like 500), and before having the valves done, it would cause the engine to die, though now it hasn't died since the fix. However, all other "shifting" while driving is completely smooth. While it's most notable at first start up, I've noticed it seeming a little harsh also if I park for only a few minutes (such as running into the store quick. This also sometimes caused the engine to die). Prior to this issue starting up, when I first shifted into drive, the car kinda shook for a bit, kind of a shudder.

Not sure if it could be also related, but I've also noticed that depending on how I stop, I also get that small shudder and a bit of rpm drop while braking. Both the startup and this braking issue had caused misfires previously, though not anymore since getting valves fixed.

Anyone know what could potentially by going wrong? Thanks.

 

For the first start up wait a minute for the "cold start" cycle to end, wait for the rpms to drop. Also could be weak motor mounts. Pass side or lower.

 

So I tried waiting about a minute this morning before shifting. It did help with the RPM drop, but the actual shift was still clunky. I also stopped in at the bank, and from there, it was a bit less noisy shifting into drive, but this time it also developed the little shudders and a couple of drops and rises of about 100-150 RPM.

 

100-150rpms is not abnormal on a CVT. Have you looked at your mounts. That may be some of the clunk you hear

 

So motor mounts are fine, and noise is mostly gone, but the RPM drop is still present (and getting worse as the temps drop - just today it dropped by about 800 on cold shift today, which caused the engine to stumble enough to trigger the SES light). Works great after the engine is warm (like if I let it sit in the driveway for 3-5 minutes before leaving).