North American Motoring

Mini Cooper 2001-2006: How to Reset ECU

Have you recently installed some new performance parts, or simply want to reset your car's ECU so it can learn your driving style? Here's how to get it done the right way.

By Brett Foote - May 27, 2016

This article applies to the 1st Gen Mini Cooper (2001-2006).

Your car's ECU stores a lot of valuable information about your car and your driving habits, which it "learns" over time. This is great if you buy your car new, but a lot of folks like to reset the ECU when they buy a used car so it can learn their particular driving style. Resetting the ECU is also a good idea if you've recently installed some performance parts so the car can recognize them. Unlike many other cars, the ECU in the Mini Cooper can't be reset by simply disconnecting the battery – you have to reset it via the speedometer. Keep reading and we'll walk you through the process.

Materials Needed

  • Car keys

Step 1 – Resetting the ECU

  • Place the key in the ignition and leave it in the off position. Press and hold the speedometer reset button, then turn the key to the on position (position one).
  • The screen should display "test" and a number. Scroll through the list by pressing the speedo reset button until you get to "test 19," and then wait until the screen shows "log i-off," then "log i-on" several times.
  • When "log i-off" appears again, press the reset button and you will enter the system's software.
  • Scroll up until you reach "21.0 Software Reset." You will hear a beep and the speedometer needle will vibrate a little bit.
  • Turn the ignition back to position 2 for 10 seconds. Start the car, and you're done!

Figure 1. The ECU can be reset via the speedometer menu.

Step 2 – Resetting the BCU

Functions not controlled by the ECU are controlled by the BCU, which can also be reset easily.

  • With the key in the "on" position (2), hold down the "trip reset" button for 3 seconds and "1. tESt" will show up on the display.
  • Press the "trip reset" button until you reach test #19, and it will alternate between "19 L-on" and "19 L-off" a few times.
  • Once it displays "19 L-off" again, press the "trip reset" button. The display will go back to "1. tESt" and you'll be able to navigate through all the menu items.
  • Press and hold the "trip reset" button for three seconds to navigate up through the menu until you reach "21. rESEt." Run this test to reset the computer, then it will return you to normal operating mode.
  • Navigate back to "0. tEST" and press the trip reset button.
  • Start the engine, and you're all set!
Figure 2. Trip reset button.

Related Discussion and Site