I am new to this forum and one of the main reasons I joined has to do with the service issues recently experienced with my 2005 MCS. I purchased the car new from the dealer in April '05. Since August '06, it has been in the shop no less than 5 times for SES (service engine soon) light activation. The Service Department has cleared the faults (P2096 DME & 02) and adaptations, opened PUMA cases with MINI, replaced the intake pressure sensor, the shut-off valve and the 4 fuel injector valves. No resolution. This past Monday, I had to bring it back in for SES activation the previous Friday. I had my state emissions test this past Saturday and it failed (P2096 - post catalyst fuel trim system too lean bank 1). I have yet to hear back from the Service Department.

In addition to the SES activation, my windshield cracked, in much the same way that I have read from others in their threads. The crack started at the top middle of the windshield, progressed down to the bottom of the rear view and made a hard left towards the driver's side. It has yet to reach the side of the windshield but it will eventually. I took it in to have it checked for defect and they did the proverbial "pen test", found a nick and called it damage due to a rock chip. All the same as I have read from others. Is it just me or is there some indication of a design flaw here?

Also, the last time I had my car at the dealer for the SES light, they claim that they had to road test it for 50 miles to get the proper diagnostic readings. On the ride home, I noticed an unusual metallic, gear-like sound when in 2nd and 3rd gear. I brought it back the next day to have it checked and it turns out that a dowel pin had backed out of the flywheel and had somehow punctured something inside my transmission. The transmission, flywheel and clutch all had to be replaced, under warranty and with remanufactured parts, mind you.

I love the car but I am beginning to wonder if I received a lemon. The lemon law in VA only covers the first 18 months from purchase so I am outside of that protection. With my factory warranty ending soon, I fear keeping what could be a considerable drain on my wallet. I'd love to hear from others who have had similar experiences or who may have suggestions and recommendations on how to deal with these problems. Thanks.