Most liked posts in thread: HELP PLEASE Mini Cooper S 04 won't start

So you tried to start it in gear? Did it lurch forward when you tried starting it?

My understanding is that even the early cars had a clutch pedal switch so this couldn't happen. http://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/2002/mini/cooper/clutch/clutch_pedal_ignition_lock_switch.html

 

The inertial switch (if it has one) is on the left between the master cylinder and the inner fender, there is a large black button on top - push it down.

 

Inertial = clutch switch?

 

No, The clutch switch is on the clutch pedal linkage. The inertial switch has a weight and spring set up to trip off of the fuel pump in case of an accident, so fuel doesn't spray all over.

 

Bad or the wrong plugs will cause this issue. Also a bad ground under the hood.

 

Do you hear the fuel pump running? If it turns over and over but doesn't catch it could just not be getting fuel. Either the fuse or the actual pump might be burned.

 

Whole I cannot shed any light on fixing your problem, I'd like to welcome you to M/A, where most of us [except me] can offer some helpful hints. Good luck and enjoy your MINI once the problem is solved!