One problem related to engine exhaust system has been reported for the 2006 Mini Cooper. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2006 Mini Cooper based on all problems reported for the 2006 Cooper.
2006 BMW Mini Cooper, 2 door. Car suddenly loses power, shudders and engine shuts down. Occurs randomly. Has occurred 6 times since car was purchased, most recent occurrence September 2010. Each time car was taken to dealer. Each time dealer said it was fixed. Dealer does not share engineering information; so, I cannot determine exactly what was done. Dealer had to get Mini Cooper engineers for consultation on several occasions. Repair orders mention a part called the vanos on several occasions. Sudden lose of power appears to me to be a safety issue. Dealer has not been able to repair. Mini Cooper of north America has said there is no problem for them to remedy.