several weeks ago it took 3-4 key cycles switching off and on for the car to finally engage, turn over, and start. Otherwise nothing, no clicking, no noise, just lights/gauges/etc. working....... Now no response with trying to start with numerous key cycles, still only lights/gauges/etc. but nothing from under the hood, all quiet.


Battery/terminals tested fine and Starter removed and tested fine.......????


2005 Mini Cooper Cabriolet S model, 110k miles

 

Guessing the key mechanism might be going bad....

 

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...rchid=14021929

 

Do you have another key you can try? Could maybe be an ignition switch issue. The pins can get oxidized inside. You can test it to see if this may be your culprit. Info HERE.

 

Hello, Replaced the starter since I had old one out, but step #2 was ignition switch and replaced with a new one. All clear and started right away. For anyone else, start with Clutch Ignition switch lock sensor, then ignition switch, then starter in that order of painlessness. Thanks to all!

 

Mine does this from time to time. Sometimes I think it could be my fault (not having the clutch all the way down)

usually starts on the second try

maybe ground, clutch switch, ews? I don’t know