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klausmond77

Mini Roadster Electrical Issues

Okay, so I'm kinda freaking out. My 2015 Mini Roadster is acting up big time. Getting a warning light in the speedometer, feels like reduced engine power, and it's starting poorly. Plus, the lights are all weak and flickering! The error memory says something about the generator. Could it be the generator is just plain defective? Anyone else had this happen? I'm worried the car won't start at all soon!

4 comment(s)

ralfwagner52

Sounds like the alternator to me. I had a similar issue with my Mini. Reduced engine power and the battery light were the first signs. Have you checked the voltage across the battery terminals when the engine is running? It should be around 14V. If it's significantly lower, that points to a faulty alternator.

klausmond77 (Author)

Voltage across the battery, got it! Where exactly do I stick the multimeter probes? And what should I set the multimeter to? Sorry for the dumb questions, car electronics aren't exactly my forte, haha.

ralfwagner52

No worries about the questions, we all start somewhere. For the multimeter, set it to DC voltage, usually around 20V should be fine. Red probe goes on the positive (+) terminal of the battery, and black probe on the negative (-). If the voltage is way below 14V with the engine running, yeah, the generator is probably shot. Honestly, with those symptoms and the error code, I'd say it's best to get it checked by a workshop. Could save you from being stranded when the car won't start at all.

klausmond77 (Author)

Hey, just wanted to give you an update. Took the Roadster to a workshop, and you were spot on! The generator was totally gone. Got the alternator replacement done, cost me about 960€ all in all. Runs like a charm now, no more battery low warnings or flickering lights. Thanks a ton for your help!

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