One problem related to transmission stuck in gear has 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.
Driving in 2nd gear (manual transmission) and the car brakes everything locked up skidding to an immediate, violent stop that squealed the tires and made smoke, oil everywhere on the road, engine still running fine. Scary, could not even push the car off the road because it was stuck in gear. Warranty company towed it to a Mini dealer in valencia, CA. Two weeks later, they granted warranty work however, the price tag is $4000!! warranty only covers $2000 so I have to get another used transmission! I see where there is a recall on all automatic transmissions 2003-2007 because of a class action law suit against Mini Cooper. Isn't it possible the same thing wrong with the automatic transmission is also happening with the manual transmissions? I can't afford this even with the warranty and I certainly don't want to risk putting another faulty transmission that locks up, what if I was doing 65? I'd roll and be dead, that's what! this car is unsafe and I feel the new, approved transmission is the only answer. This isn't about money, it's about the fact the car locked up with no sign or warning whatsoever. Though, if there is a recall I would like reimbursed for the costs or however that works, thank you for your time. Sincerely, casey casseday c: (310) 403-3102.