Starting difficulties and warning signals with Mini Cooper petrol engine (2015) - exchange of experience wanted

Hey, I have a 2012 Mini Cooper Diesel and had similar problems to yours. The cold start was always a drama and sometimes it just wouldn't start. There were also strange noises coming from the engine compartment like you described. The last time it was in the garage, the mechanic determined that it was the alternator and the starter motor. The headlights flickered just as irregularly. In his opinion, the battery wasn't the best either, but the warning light in the speedometer wasn't on. This is a serious matter and should be rectified immediately. I hope this helps you a little and you find a solution to your problem soon. Good luck!

(Translated from German)

Hey, you're not the only one! I had similar worries with my 2014 Mini Cooper gasoline engine. It was a real pain, especially with the cold start. I also had the warning light in the speedometer and the front headlights were very unreliable. After a few visits to my mechanic and a few headaches later, he realized that it was the alternator and starter that were causing problems. It was the same for me! But the replacement wasn't as cheap as I had hoped.... Do you remember how much you had to pay for the repair? And have there been any other problems since? Hopefully we can all find a permanent solution! All the best!

(Translated from German)

Hey, your sympathy is good, I can tell you that! My mechanic determined that the fault was the result of a secondary fault in the vehicle's electrical system. I feel the same way, my 2012 Mini Cooper Diesel made a real fuss, especially during cold starts, and that damn engine start-possibly-not-possible light really got on my nerves. I felt the same way, but for real! He took a close look at the thing and lo and behold - everything works again! Since then, the little one has been running like a champ. So don't panic, these problems can be solved! And here's the thing: the whole thing didn't cost me a penny! I could hardly believe it, but it was! So, guys, don't be put off if you're having problems too - go to the mechanic and get to work! Cheer up and everything will be fine!

(Translated from German)

Hey, thanks for your answers and sympathy! It's always reassuring to know that you're not alone with such problems. It seems that your experiences are quite similar to mine, which may help solve my problem. Sad to hear that the repair was expensive, but at least now I know what to expect. Glad to hear that some of you were even able to get the fault fixed for free - that would be the ideal situation of course. I will definitely be taking my Mini Cooper back to the mechanic now to have the alternator and starter checked. Hopefully it will have the same positive effect as yours and the problems will finally be history. Thanks again for your help and I will keep you posted! All the best and drive safely!

(Translated from German)