Two problems related to transmission slip out of gear have been reported for the 2003 Mini Cooper. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Mini Cooper based on all problems reported for the 2003 Cooper.
I have a 2003 Mini Cooper with automatic cvt transmission and have had recurring problems with the cvt since I purchased the vehicle. Below is a summary of service visits, replacement of the cvt in 2007, and the current status of the cvt as inoperable. I have all invoices detailing work done. 10/9/02 - I purchased a new 2003 Mini Cooper with automatic cvt transmission from baron BMW in merriam, KS. 12/02 - Mini USA sent me letter chassis #te13495 that some automatic cvt transmissions had been filled with the incorrect transmission oil and to schedule an appointment to have it flushed and replaced ASAP. 12/27/02 - baron flushed and replaced fluid. I also complained that the car had died two times and ran rough. Mileage 1,760. 7/2/03-I took Mini in complaining "when going from reverse to drive car has a hard lurch" and baron's invoice states "test drove car and found it was very harsh going into gear and lurched when it was cold". 2nd auto trans concern was "car has almost died at low idles a few times". Baron reprogrammed the car under warranty. Mileage 6,465. 7/23/07-customer goodwill provided by baron Mini and replaced the transmission at no cost although warranty was up. Mileage 49,512. 9/11/07-I took Mini in again complaining of rough idle and car wants to die at stops. Mileage 51,167. 8/13/09- Mini was having a hard time shifting out of 1st gear. It would only drive 15-20 mph at up to 3,000 rpms. I called baron and was told the current transmission had a two year warranty (which made this complaint 2 years and a few weeks past warranty) but it was possible Mini would cover repair/replacement. They did not. Baron flushed and filled the transmission fluid and said it runs better but it is not fixed. They recommend replacing the cvt again. I have not had the cvt replaced (for the 2nd time). Mileage 75,558.
Failed cvt transmission in the middle of an intersection. Car had to be pushed to the side of the road as entire system was locked and engine died; could not manually move shift out of drive. Mileage was around 12,000 above warranty. Dealership quoted $7200 to replace transmission - no coverage under warranty. I could not afford the repair, so turned the car back to manufacturer as a voluntary repo. This was devastating. Car was in excellent condition otherwise.