I have a 2008 R56 with just shy of 110K miles. The check engine light is on and my dealer is indicating that this is a software problem without a fix.

When the light comes on it registers fault 2F07. Typically this is a thermostat/housing/sensor issue. I've had 1 aftermarket and 2 MINI OEM thermostats put in the car. Both a local shop that specialized in MINI's (in consultation with MINI USA) and my dealer confirmed that the thermostat is working correctly and that this is some type of ghost code that will only clear temporarily before recurring. Essentially, it's a software problem.

The car has the latest MINI software update via the dealer as of 12/27/17. The dealer has indicated in writing that this is a software problem that does not currently have a fix and the car is safe to drive. MINI USA is not offering any help. I'm ready for a new car and this error pretty significantly reduces the sale or trade-in value. Nobody wants a car with a check engine light on.

Any advice on options to try fix this or deal with MINI USA on this issue? My dealer indicated that they've seen one or two other cars with this issue.

Mark

 

Software can't be erased / reloaded? A replacement ECU won't fix it?

 

I would get a scan tool ( https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...d-q-and-a.html ) and clear it myself or try to unplug that battery cable let it set. Then try to plug it back in and see if it clears. I would also check that wiring harness since its been replaced its easy to have one of those wires going to the thermostat snagged or damaged.


If you check the thermostat DIY you will see that a bunch of wiress to the right of it(facing towards the car) can get bumped. That's where I would check and make sure they all have a strong contact.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...8-no-heat.html

Check the plug socket here also. 12527542850

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...0597-code.html




Clear the codes again after you mess with anything.

If everything is fine and it still throws a code then it could be that software thing. But it would have to be rare. I have not seen many of those.

 

Hate to say this but the dealers response sounds a bit fishy to me. I'd start by disconnecting the battery then remove the middle connector on the ECU. Disconnect the two connectors on the thermostat. The upper is the temp sensor and the lower goes to the thermostat heater element. Check continuity as follows.

Pin 1 Temp Sensor -> Pin 32 ECU connector
Pin 2 Temp Sensor -> Pin 14 ECU connector

Pin 1 TStat Heater -> Pin 17 ECU connector
Pin 2 TStat Heater -> Pin 49 ECU connector

Have someone help by moving the wires around a bit while checking for continuity. Chances are you've got an intermittent connection somewhere.