Mini Clubman Rain Light Sensor Fault

Sounds like you have a similar issue to what I experienced some time ago. I had weird electrical faults popping up, especially with the lights. Does your interior lighting seem dimmer than usual too? It could be a malfunctioning sensor affecting multiple car components. Have you checked your battery voltage? A low battery can sometimes cause auto sensors to act erratically. Essentially an auto sensor is an electronic device that detects changes in its environment and then signals the car's computer to activate another component, like your headlights or wipers.

Interesting, I hadn't considered the battery. The interior lights seem normal, but the battery is original. I'm most curious about that sensor though. Where exactly is it located and is there an easy way to check for those 'bubbles' you mentioned?

Yep, sounds exactly like my experience. I didn't check the battery voltage myself. In my case, the bubbles were visible right where the rain sensor is mounted on the windshield, near the rearview mirror. Honestly, you're probably best off having a workshop take a look, since they have the proper diagnostic tools and replacement sensors. It's a pretty common problem apparently.

Just wanted to post an update. After a quick trip to the shop, it turned out the rain-light sensor was indeed faulty, probably due to those irritating bubbles forming under the gel pad on the windshield. A replacement sensor and fitting cost me 62€. Everything's working perfectly again. Thanks for the advice, it saved me a lot of headache!