Mini Roadster Transmission Control Unit Failure

My 2015 Mini Roadster diesel is throwing a wrench in my driving pleasure. The transmission control unit seems to have gone kaput. Paddle shifters are unresponsive, the gearbox is slipping and shifting erratically, plus there are grinding noises. It's also gone into emergency mode, and the error memory confirms a defective control unit. Anyone else experienced similar electronic issues? Considering a transmission repair and wondering if replacing the automotive ECU is the right move.

4 comment(s)

Interesting issue. I had similar gearbox issues with my Mini Cooper – not a Roadster, but the same engine and transmission, I think. It turned out to be a faulty speed sensor causing the ECU to freak out. Have you checked the sensor readings with an OBD scanner?

Good point about the speed sensor. I've got the diagnostic report here, and it's only showing errors related to the transmission control unit itself. Do you remember if your symptoms were exactly the same? Paddle shifters not working, slipping gears, and going into limp mode?

Yeah, my symptoms were very similar. The paddle shifters were the first to go, then the slipping started. I'd recommend getting a second opinion from a reputable workshop. They can run more in-depth diagnostics and confirm if it's definitely the TCU. Better safe than sorry, especially with gearbox issues.

I had the Mini checked out, and it was indeed the TCU. Replaced it, coded it, and now it shifts like new. Cost me about 1000€, but worth it to get back on the road.

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