NHTSA investigating 36,000 Mini Cooper S models for engine fires

Discussion in 'Feedback, Reviews & Comments' started by Nathan, Oct 15, 2011.

  1. Nathan

    Nathan Founder

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    David Shepardson/ Detroit News Washington Bureau

    Washington— The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating the 2007-2008 BMW Mini Cooper S for engine fires.

    NHTSA said in a notice posted on its website Saturday it is probing 36,000 models sold in the United States after receiving 12 complaints, including 5 alleged fires resulting in a total vehicle loss.

    The investigation covers the Mini Cooper S, the Mini Cooper S convertible and the 2008 Clubman edition.

    Eight complaints said fires occurred while the vehicles were parked with the ignition off. The complaints show an apparent increasing trend with most complaints received within the past year, NHTSA said.

    NHTSA has reviewed field reports submitted as part of its Early Warning Reporting data. A preliminary evaluation has been opened to assess the cause, scope and frequency of the alleged defect by the agency.

    NHTSA said no injuries or crashes have been reported as a result of the fires.
    BMW didn't immediately return a message seeking comment Saturday.


    From The Detroit News: Autos Insider | NHTSA investigating 36,000 Mini Cooper S models for engine fires | The Detroit News
     
  2. Nathan

    Nathan Founder

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    The NHTSA PDF can be found here.

    Note: This is not a recall, if it was then those affected would be notified. This is a preliminary investigation at this point.
     
  3. rkw

    rkw Well-Known Member

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    This happened to someone during a test drive.

    [ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kKbivBkJoM]2007 MINI Cooper S Spontaneously caught fire - YouTube[/ame]
     
  4. Metalman

    Metalman Well-Known Member
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    Sep 29, 2009
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    Welp.... It's definitely sitting lower now....

    I wonder what brought that on.... I wouldn't be surprised if it turns out being that funky oil line that feeds the Turbo bearing that seems to start leaking around the "O" ring flex joint. Engine oil spraying on a hot turbo body could certainly do something like this????
     
  5. AliceCooper

    AliceCooper Club Coordinator

    Mar 13, 2010
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    Kinda freaky, was looking at a 2007 MCS today for the wife. Hmmmm.... might be a good idea after all :) Just kidding.. I love my wife...no really I do.
     
  6. Tall Mini

    Tall Mini Member

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    Another story over on NAM today about an 09 that went up after being parked. I think it actually happened only a couple days ago.
     
  7. Crashton

    Crashton Club Coordinator

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    That is just a new way they've come up with to ban their member's. :crazy:

    Seriously though, I think MM/Chuck has hit the nail on the head. Oil + turbo = Big Fire....
     
  8. DneprDave

    DneprDave Well-Known Member
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    Oct 23, 2010
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    The NAM member's fire started away from the turbocharger.

    Dave
     

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