The problem
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2002-2005 MINI Cooper and Cooper S vehicles and 2005 Cooper and Cooper S Convertible vehicles. The affected vehicles may experience temporary or permanent loss of the electro-hydraulic steering assistance.
The risk
If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
MINI will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the electro-hydraulic power steering system, replacing the components and wiring, as necessary, free of charge. Interim notices were mailed to owners on December 10, 2015. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 15V-660 (15V660000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Steering › Electric power assist system |
| Report date | October 15, 2015 |
| Owners notified | March 4, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 86,018 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the steering
- 2002 Mini Cooper steering problems 61
- 2003 Mini Cooper steering problems 159
- 2004 Mini Cooper steering problems 238
- 2005 Mini Cooper steering problems 351
- 2002 Mini Cooper S steering problems 57
- 2003 Mini Cooper S steering problems 129
- 2004 Mini Cooper S steering problems 210
- 2005 Mini Cooper S steering problems 249
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 15V-660 repair free?
Yes. Mini dealers will fix the problem at no cost: MINI will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the electro-hydraulic power steering system, replacing the components and wiring, as necessary, free of charge. Interim notices were mailed to owners on December 10, 2015.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 86,018 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.