22 Best & Worst Mini Cooper Years | 2023 Updated

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Source: press.bmwgroup

The Mini Cooper is a legendary automobile. Mini Coopers are ideal for city dwellers who want a little car that is easy to park and handle in crowded areas but still provides a fun and exciting driving experience.

In this article, We’ll discuss why the years we chose are the finest for the Mini Cooper. We included Mini Coopers produced between 2017 and 2021 for this analysis. It was a tough call, but we weighed all the evidence and discussed it to conclude.

The model years 2006, 2007, 2009-2013, 2016, and 2018-2023 are the best years to buy, with excellent dependability and few reported issues. Mini Cooper’s worst model years include 2002-2005, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2017. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, Jd Power, and Kelley Blue Book reviews.

What Are the Worst Years of Mini Cooper?

It’s commonly agreed that some mini models aren’t as good as others. Below, we’ll fill you in on the details of the years in question. This will be very helpful to you if you plan to purchase a Mini in the future. For various reasons, you should steer clear of these production years.

#8 Worst Year: 2017 Mini Cooper (3.89 Rating)

Source: Wikimedia

The least problematic year on the list is the 2017 mini cooper. Multiple owners complain about the body’s integrity due to weather conditions, in-car electronics, and premature brake wear.

If we take a deep look at why the 2017 mini cooper got three recalls, we will see that the issue of exterior lighting, airbags, and seat belts was the reason.

Common Problem:

  • Engine problem
  • Exterior lighting issue
  • Peeling Paint

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2017 Mini Cooper got 3 recalls and 17 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2017 Mini Cooper got 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4 expert reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2017 Mini Cooper got 81/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2017 Mini Cooper got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.8 expert ratings.

#7 Worst Year: 2008 Mini Cooper (3.85 Rating)

Source: carsguide

With the 2008 mini cooper, With only 7,000 miles, the Mini’s transmission may be shot, making it the worst choice. You’ll notice we could hear a rumbling whine coming from the transmission under light acceleration, and it was most pronounced in the middle of the rpm range.

Carcomplaint labeled this 2008 year as “Avoid like the plague.”

Common Problem:

  • Convertible sunroof mechanism failure
  • Engine sound

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#6 Worst Year: 2015 Mini Cooper (3.76 Rating)

Source: autos.yahoo

The 2015 mini cooper is another worst model year based on the number of recalls and complaints noticed by NHTSA. Different owners complain about transmission issues, including difficulty shifting gears, clunking noises, etc.

Besides engine issue problems noticed, some drivers experienced engine problems, including misfires, stalling, and rough idling that can make you wonder if this car is worth trying.

Common Problem:

  • Engine Problem
  • Transmission Failure
  • Airbag issues

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#5 Worst Year: 2002 Mini Cooper (3.74 Rating)

Source: intheshop2023.com

2002 is a no-no choice if you want a vehicle with no engine or transmission failure. This is because the worst problems of the 2002 mini cooper are transmission failure and engine problems, including issues with the cylinder head and valve cover gasket.

Common Problem:

  • Electrical connection failure
  • Seat broke
  • Power steering pump failure

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#4 Worst Year: 2004 Mini Cooper (3.62 Rating)

Source: Vauxford / Wikipedia

The general problem noticed with the 2004 mini coopers is its electrical system problem as you know you won’t be able to start your car at all, or will crank slowly, leading to a significant loss. Other problems noticed with the 2004 mini cooper are battery, fuses, and circuit issues.

Carcomplaint labeled this 2004 year as “Avoid like the plague.”

Common Problem:

  • Transmission Failure
  • Radiator Failure
  • CVT Blew Up

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#3 Worst Year: 2003 Mini Cooper (3.59 Rating)

Source: Neodrive

With this old mini cooper, you will regret it in many ways. One of the significant reasons for this regret may be transmission failure.

Given that this is the new Mini’s first generation, there are bound to be reports of recurring issues. You’d have difficulty finding a well-kept 2003 Mini, and problems are widespread in the Turbo S models.

Common Problem:

  • Transmission just stopped
  • Burned exhaust valves
  • Airbag indicator light on

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#2 Worst Year: 2014 Mini Cooper (3.57 Rating)

Source: Thecarconnection

2014 Mini Cooper had a higher-than-average number of reported problems compared to other model years. Owners have a long list of complaints about this model.

The significant issues are glitches and malfunctions in the car’s electronics, engine, cylinder head, and head gasket. Don’t forget to include brake issues in the most problematic issues in this list.

Common Problem:

  • Engine and Engine Cooling
  • Power Train issue
  • Electrical system failure

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#1 Worst Year: 2005 Mini Cooper (3.25 Rating)

Source: Carsguide

Moving on to the worst of all, the 2005 mini cooper model year. 2005 mini cooper breaks all the records of complaints found on NHTSA. Not only based on our research, but carcomplaint.com also labeled this model year as the worst model of a mini cooper.

Some owners complain shift cable could unexpectedly detach from the shifter. Others say a faulty mounting screw for the rear suspension strut is another problem.

Car owners were forced to return their vehicles to the lots for repairs after discovering problems with the power steering pumps, inaccurate tire information, and leaking power steering hoses.

Carcomplaint labeled this year as “Avoid like the plague.”  Here’s what we’d say if you’re set on purchasing a Mini Cooper from 2005: Wait. “Don’t! please!”

Common Problem:

  • Transmission failure
  • Power Steering Pump
  • Premature clutch failure

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

What Are the Best Years of Mini Cooper?

In this section, We will list the top fourteen most reliable Mini Cooper model years. That way, you know for sure that you’re getting a reliable Mini from one of those years.

#14 Best Year: 2006 Mini Cooper (4.11 Rating)

Source: CarFax

Only one recall for the 2006 Mini cooper affected some vehicles due to a defective mat, making this model year part of the best mini cooper years.

We recommend the supercharged Cooper S model from 2006 if you’re looking for a first-generation Mini Cooper since it provides excellent performance, fun driving, and few maintenance issues. Since manual transmissions are prone to clutch failure, we also advise opting for an automatic for a better diving experience.

Here are some of the features that made 2006 one of the best Mini Cooper:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 115 horsepower and a supercharged version with 168 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2006 Mini Cooper got 1 recall and 409 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2006 Mini Cooper got 4.7/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2006 Mini Cooper got 78/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2006 Mini Cooper got 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.

#13 Best Year: 2010 Mini Cooper (4.15 Rating)

Source: cars.com

The 2010 Mini Cooper is among the best-handling compact cars we’ve researched. This model’s acceleration is surprisingly good, and steering is quick and direct, particularly with the sport mode activated, making this model year the best choice for speedy drivers.

Although this is a bit old model year, it successfully provides its consumers with wide arrays of technology and performance upgrades.

Here are some of the features that made 2010 one of the best Mini Coopers:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 118 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 172 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#12 Best Year: 2021 Mini Cooper (4.20 Rating)

Source: Cnet.com

The Mini Cooper model year 2021 is one that we recommend. The Mini Cooper 2021 is another great success in its range of coopers. Sometimes newer isn’t better, but in the case of the 2021 Cooper, it most definitely is.

We based our choice in part on the vehicle’s excellent gas mileage, the reliability and security of the brand, the availability of a manual transmission, the freshness of the two editions, and the variety of the available trims, prices, equipment, and interiors.

Here are some of the features that made 2021 one of the best Mini Coopers:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 189 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2021 Mini Cooper got 2 recalls and 4 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2021 Mini Cooper got 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2021 Mini Cooper got 82/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2021 Mini Cooper got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.3 expert ratings.

#11 Best Year: 2009 Mini Cooper (4.20 Rating)

Source: Carpixel

If you are considering purchasing a 2009 Mini Cooper, there are a number of reasons why this car could be a great choice. This model year represents a continuation of the third generation of the Mini Cooper and provides among the best features from this generation.

It offers a range of engine options and provides plenty of power for a car of this size while also delivering impressive fuel efficiency.

Here are some of the features that made 2009 one of the best Mini Coopers:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 118 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 172 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2009 Mini Cooper got 2 recalls and 35 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2009 Mini Cooper got 4.1/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2009 Mini Cooper got 79/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2009 Mini Cooper got 4.3/5.0 consumer ratings.

#10 Best Year: 2011 Mini Cooper (4.23 Rating)

Source: Thecarconnection

There is controversy about the 2011 mini cooper, whether it is considered the worst or best, but in our opinion, it falls under the best category. We’ll tell you how.

According to consumer report, their favorite Mini is the standard 2011 Mini Cooper with a manual transmission. Cheery on Top, it is one of the least costly minis.

Its superior ride and fuel economy give it an edge over the faster turbocharged Cooper S and the bigger Clubman. This Mini is a blast to drive, regardless of your chosen engine. The combined fuel economy is an impressive 33 mpg.

Here are some of the features that made 2011 one of the best Mini Coopers:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 121 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 181 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#9 Best Year: 2019 Mini Cooper (4.29 Rating)

Source: Divulgação / g1.globo.com

The 2019 Mini Cooper has many improved features, making it one of the most reliable model years yet. Even in crash tests, this Mini Cooper performed admirably. This Mini Cooper is, thus, among the most secure options available. The Mini Cooper S trim level was also available for purchase in 2019.

If you want a high-end Mini Cooper, this is your best bet. The base model is sufficient if you only want a fun, cheap, and reliable car.

Here are some of the features that made 2019 one of the best Mini Coopers:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 189 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2019 Mini Cooper got 2 recalls and 7 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2019 Mini Cooper got 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2019 Mini Cooper got 83/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2019 Mini Cooper got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.7 expert ratings.

#8 Best Year: 2020 Mini Cooper (4.30 Rating)

Source: Greencarreports

The 2020 Mini Cooper is an excellent addition to this list, as it has a reliability score above average. This Mini Cooper is distinguished from its siblings by its efficient cabin, abundant choices, and lively engine. The Mini Cooper offers many personalization choices for the current model year.

This means that you can get a custom Mini Cooper. The fun-to-drive nature of this vehicle is ensured by its powerful yet refined engine. After careful consideration, we’ve determined that 2020 will once again be the most reliable year for Mini Coopers.

Here are some of the features that made 2020 one of the best Mini Coopers:

  • Engine Choices: It came with a 5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 189 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2020 Mini Cooper got 2 recalls and 3 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2020 Mini Cooper got 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2020 Mini Cooper got 82/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2020 Mini Cooper got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.7 expert ratings.

#7 Best Year: 2007 Mini Cooper (4.32 Rating)

Source: Theautochannel

The 2007 Mini Cooper car has distinctive styling and excellent handling. The Mini Cooper’s fun-to-drive nature is backed up by its fuel-efficient engine and nimble handling, making it ideal for city driving. It is an old yet competent model year.

It offers a surprisingly spacious cabin, especially for a compact car, and its interior design is both stylish and functional and can be the best choice for those drivers who are looking for an affordable, stylish, and reliable car.

Here are some of the features that made 2007 one of the best Mini Cooper:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 115 horsepower and a supercharged version with 168 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#6 Best Year: 2022 Mini Cooper (4.39 Rating)

Source: Caranddrive

The 2022 Mini Cooper is an excellent choice for those seeking a fun and stylish car. According to US News, the 2022 Mini Cooper received an impressive overall score of 8.2 out of 10, with high marks for its agile handling, upscale interior, and user-friendly technology.

The car is available in several trim levels, including the John Cooper Works model. It also has a robust list of standard safety features, including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

Here are some of the features that made 2022 one of the best Mini Coopers:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 189 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2022 Mini Cooper got 0 recalls and 3 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2022 Mini Cooper got 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2022 Mini Cooper got 82/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2022 Mini Cooper got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.3 expert ratings.

#5 Best Year: 2023 Mini Cooper (4.40 Rating)

Source: mini.com

The jury is still out on the dependability of this model due to its recent release. The new Mini Cooper 2023 SE has a lovely, pokémon-like appearance, and the fact that it is only offered as a two-door model is a plus in a market where real coupes are becoming increasingly rare.

Despite its compact size, the Mini Cooper 2023 can carry near to similar freight as larger vehicles.

Here are some of the features that made 2023 one of the best Mini Coopers:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder with 134 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 189 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2023 Mini Cooper got 0 recalls and 2 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2023 Mini Cooper got 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2023 Mini Cooper got 83/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2023 Mini Cooper got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.3 expert ratings.

#4 Best Year: 2012 Mini Cooper (4.44 Rating)

Source: Thecarconnection

The 2012 Mini Cooper is a solid choice for those who want a fun car and offers excellent fuel economy. According to Edmunds, the car’s responsive handling and sharp steering make it a joy to drive on winding roads, while its efficient engine and lightweight result in impressive gas mileage.

The car also has a distinctive and stylish design, with a wide range of customization options to suit individual tastes. Regarding features, the 2012 Mini Cooper is among the best-featured mini cooper.

Here are some of the features that made 2012 one of the best Mini Cooper:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 121 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 181 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#3 Best Year: 2016 Mini Cooper (4.54 Rating)

Source: Edmunds

The third-best mini cooper in this list is the 2016 mini cooper. Reviews and complaints on various websites indicate that the 2016 Mini Cooper models are one of the most reliable. This is fantastic news; this model is not outdated regarding powertrain and cabin design.

One of the significant features of the 2016 model year is its decent fuel economy. Its classic mini design with sharp and quick handling gives the rivers a quiet driving experience they won’t regret.

Here are some of the features that made 2016 one of the best Mini Cooper:

  • Engine Choices: It came with three engines: A 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with134 horsepower, a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 189 horsepower, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2016 Mini Cooper got 1 recall and 11 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2016 Mini Cooper got 4.2/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2016 Mini Cooper got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.

#2 Best Year: 2013 Mini Cooper (4.54 Rating)

Source: Thecarconnection

All 2013 Mini Cooper models are fantastic. They all have quick steering and responsive turbocharged engines, making them as lively as their competitors.

The 2013 Mini Cooper received the highest possible score of a car in both the seat and moderate overlap front crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The 2013 Cooper was rated as Acceptable for side impact safety and roof strength, the second highest possible rating. All of this contributes to making the 2013 second on the list of the best mini cooper.

Here are some of the features that made 2013 one of the best Mini Cooper:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 121 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 181 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#1 Best Year: 2018 Mini Cooper (4.59 Rating)

Source: Caranddrive

Finally, Our Top pick is none other than the 2018 Mini Cooper. According to experts, It has the most comfortable front seats, expressive style, and sharp handling that elevate your driving experience in a budget-friendly manner. Also, The John Cooper Works Hardtop 2018 stands out among the many compact sports cars on the market.

With the zero recalls and above-average consumer ratings reported on Jd power, Edmunds, and Kelley’s blue book, this model must give a try.

If you have a keen eye for used cars and know what to look for, the 2018 Mini Cooper model should be at the top of your list when looking for a dependable and attractively styled compact car.

Here are some of the features that made 2018 one of the best Mini Cooper:

  • Engine Choices: It came with two engines: A 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 134 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 189 horsepower.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2018 Mini Cooper got 0 recalls and 6 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2018 Mini Cooper got 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2018 Mini Cooper got 82/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2018 Mini Cooper got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.8 expert ratings.

Conclusion

Although there were several significant problems with the first-generation Mini Coopers, they were mainly ironed out as the company worked to perfect the car over the years.

That tells us which model years of the Mini Cooper to steer clear of and which to consider purchasing. Regarding Minis, the adage “newer is better” holds. However, we should not deny that some old model years still hold the true essence of small compact cars.

Now that you know which model year is best and which is worst, you can easily shop for your favorite Mini without any worries.

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