jonasghost32

Mini Roadster gear selection display issues

Alright, mechanics of the forum, I need some help with my 2014 Mini Roadster. It's got about 160000 km on the clock. The gear selection display in the instrument panel has gone completely dark, and it's causing havoc. I can barely engage the gears, the automatic transmission is acting all kinds of strange, slipping, shifting horribly, and making grinding noises when shifting. I did get an error code, which indicates that the control unit is defective. I'm looking at around 1000€ for the repair. Has anyone else experienced something similar with their gear indicator or shift knob? Any advice before I bite the bullet?

4 comment(s)

Whoa, that's a nasty set of symptoms all pointing towards one thing! Slipping, grinding, display failure... sounds like a total crapshoot. First things first, have you scanned the OBD-II for specific fault codes beyond the generic "error stored" message? Knowing the exact code would help pinpoint the issue. Also, is the problem constant, or does it come and go? Does fiddling with the shift knob change anything?

Thanks for the quick reply! I did scan it, and it's throwing a P0702 code – Transmission Control System Electrical. The problem seems pretty constant, especially after the car warms up. As for the shift knob, no change at all, the electronic display is just dead. Any thoughts on what to check next before I throw in the towel?

P0702 confirms our fears: cooked transmission control unit. Given the symptoms and that code, plus the mileage, it's highly probable the unit has failed. The erratic shifting, display malfunction in the car dashboard, it all adds up. Sadly, this isn't a DIY fix unless you're seriously experienced with TCU replacement and coding. My advice? Find a reputable shop that specializes in Mini transmissions. Get a second opinion, but be prepared for the bad news. It's likely a new TCU or a refurbished one. Either way, ouch!

Thanks for the insight! Ended up taking it to a certified mechanic, and you nailed it. The control unit was indeed the culprit. A hefty bill as expected, but at least my Mini Roadster is back on the road with a functioning gear indicator. Appreciate the help!

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