[drgrey]

Planning to buy a MINI for a third car to be shared with my wife. Am considering a CVT for her ease of use. But before making that choice, would love to hear from owners with CVT ecperience-good and bad. Thanks

[CooperS4us]

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

Planning to buy a MINI for a third car to be shared with my wife. Am considering a CVT for her ease of use. But before making that choice, would love to hear from owners with CVT ecperience-good and bad. Thanks

14K miles, ZERO problems. 2002 MINI Cooper CVT. The ZF CVT transmission in these cars is absolutely bulletproof.

If you want to learn more about the "nuts and bolts" of this technological wonder, take a look at the following CVT driving technique discussion thread:

http://www.mini2.com/forum/showthrea...8&page=1&pp=15


Warning: It is a very long tread, but a must read for any current or prospective MINI Cooper CVT owner.


Cheers!

PS: If you have any further questions about the Cooper CVT, feel free to send me a private message.

[Spy Car]

If I had Encinal, Decker, Stunt, La Tuna, Mulholland, etc. in my backyard I'd want to make sure I had a manual transmission to fully enjoy the fun.

Not knocking the CVT but you have some of the best driving MINI driving roads in the world right there....why not maximize the experience with the appropriate transmission choice?

[CooperS4us]

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

If I had Encinal, Decker, Stunt, La Tuna, Mulholland, etc. in my backyard I'd want to make sure I had a manual transmission to fully enjoy the fun.

Not knocking the CVT but you have some of the best driving MINI driving roads in the world right there....why not maximize the experience with the appropriate transmission choice?

The CVT is super fun in the twisties. # different programming modes to choose from (Normal, Sport, Steptronic) and with Steptronic you can "shift" your very own set of 6 forward gears with no clutch pedal.

Spy: Have you already taken a CVT for a test drive?

[DITCH]

22k miles:

My CVT sucks. It is ok until you have to stop (at a stoplight or otherwise.) When you stop, the transmission doesn't disengage enough from the engine, and loads it down to a VERY rough idle. The whole car shakes, giving the impression that you're in an old car with maladjusted carbs. The shaking is especiallyevident in the steering column, where all your keys will clang together in a hellacious racket, requiring you to put the car in neutral until the light changes again. So I paid $1250 for a CVT automatic that has to be driven like a manual.

This "feature" becomes much worse if you have the A/C on.

Ironically, the rough idle wasn't as bad when the CVT had the wrong oil put in at the factory. (Do a search on "CVT recall" for more info.)

My dealer service guy (though generally nice and competent) keeps blowing smoke up my **** about how the next software update will fix the problem. I seriouly doubt this is the case.

If you would like to hear my car, e-mail me -- I'll send you my phone number and you can listen to it over the phone.

Ditch

[drgrey]

Those are great driving areas, I agree! You must know the area. I spent many happy hours driving them in my old 911 and on my Honda 550. But, I think the CVT will enable my wife to share the car and help me justify it more. She keeps protesting that we don't need a third car! Besides, the Cooper CVT Driving Techniques thread has some good tips on using that transmission in those kinds of settings. But before I decide, I want to know that it isn't prone to trouble.

[CooperS4us]

Quote: Originally Posted by DITCH

22k miles:

My CVT sucks. It is ok until you have to stop (at a stoplight or otherwise.) When you stop, the transmission doesn't disengage enough from the engine, and loads it down to a VERY rough idle. The whole car shakes, giving the impression that you're in an old car with maladjusted carbs. The shaking is especiallyevident in the steering column, where all your keys will clang together in a hellacious racket, requiring you to put the car in neutral until the light changes again. So I paid $1250 for a CVT automatic that has to be driven like a manual.

This "feature" becomes much worse if you have the A/C on.

Ironically, the rough idle wasn't as bad when the CVT had the wrong oil put in at the factory. (Do a search on "CVT recall" for more info.)

My dealer service guy (though generally nice and competent) keeps blowing smoke up my **** about how the next software update will fix the problem. I seriouly doubt this is the case.

If you would like to hear my car, e-mail me -- I'll send you my phone number and you can listen to it over the phone.

Ditch

Come down to Miami sometime. I'll let you take my car for a spin. It drives perfectly, smooth as silk and extremely responsive. It does none of the symptoms you car has. I have 14K in my '02 Cooper CVT running software updated 33.2, which was installed back in mid May.

I suspect your problems come from the following sources:

1) Defective engine wiring harness
2) Defective throttle body control module
3) Corrupt or incorrectly loaded version of the software
4) If your car is an early 2003 production (Built between Sept-Oct 2003) you may have transmission damage due to the incorrect oil viscosity in the transmission.


Sorry to hear about your problems, but my car runs sooo good it is unbelievable. I can't even feel the engine idle while the A/C is running...is that smooth.

[DITCH]

CS4U:

I'd be very interested in trying it. In fact, I'll be in Miami the weekend of the 26th. Maybe we could get together and drive each other's cars for a bit. Those are some good ideas about the possible problems. Mine was built late August 2002, the first week of the 2003 run (which really just means I have a 2002 with an extra key and no rear power jack ) and was affected by the recall.

Just curious: why single out those 4 items? Why would you suspect bad wiring? How would I know whether my tranny was damaged before I took it in for the recall? Where is the TB controle module, and how to test it?

Thanks,
Ditch

[Spy Car]

Quote: Originally Posted by CooperS4us

The CVT is super fun in the twisties. # different programming modes to choose from (Normal, Sport, Steptronic) and with Steptronic you can "shift" your very own set of 6 forward gears with no clutch pedal.

Spy: Have you already taken a CVT for a test drive?

No still haven't had a go in the CVT yet.

It may not be a fair test, but I have noticed that at the MINI runs we have out near where drgrey lives, that the CVT drivers either pass on making the canyon runs, or fall way off in the pack. I can't say this is due to the CVT, but I do wonder.

Personally when I'm in those twisties, I marvel at how great the car is, and for me working the clutch and the gears is a huge part of the experience. But you know me I'm clutch happy.

I'm sure a MINI CVT would still be fun, but believe me, if there are ANY roads where working the gears is pure joy....it is the roads in and around Westlake Village. So I would stick with a manual.

[CooperS4us]

Quote: Originally Posted by DITCH

CS4U:

I'd be very interested in trying it. In fact, I'll be in Miami the weekend of the 26th. Maybe we could get together and drive each other's cars for a bit. Those are some good ideas about the possible problems. Mine was built late August 2002, the first week of the 2003 run (which really just means I have a 2002 with an extra key and no rear power jack ) and was affected by the recall.

Just curious: why single out those 4 items? Why would you suspect bad wiring? How would I know whether my tranny was damaged before I took it in for the recall? Where is the TB controle module, and how to test it?

Thanks,
Ditch

Ditch:

I think your dealer has not kept in the "Loop" as to the problems that have been discussed in MINI sites, "Ad Naseum".

There have been a "batch" or Coopers (5 speeds and CVTs) that have come with defective engine wiring harnesses from the factory. In some others, the cable connection to the throttle body control module is defective, hence causing the EML light to come up (Causing the car to go into "Crawl" safemode) or recurring engine stutters and stalls.

If your dealer has any hint at servicing these cars (And I am sure there are MINI issued service bulletins on the subject), they should have already replaced the engine wiring harness and the throttle body control module as the first steps in isolating the problem.

Secondly, you need to make sure that your car has software update 33.2 installed in the DME. If your car already has 33.2 and still shakes, hesitates and stalls, then one of the above 2 culprits could be causing the whole system to crumble.

My car was built the first week of August 2002 (Last batch of the '02 model year) and hence was not part of the infamous CVT tranny oil recall. There has been talk that cars that came with the wrong oil from the factory could have already sustained long term transmission damage. Just think for a minute....how many miles did you drive your car before finding out that the transmission had the wrong viscosity fluid in it? 500 miles? 1000 miles? 5000 miles? Enough time to create damage downthere without you even knowing it.

Some owners (Poster Technomage comes to mind) were succesful at getting MINIUSA to buyback and replace their troublesome early 2003 production Cooper CVTs. he had the same problems you had and after attempting every fix in the book the car never drove right. He know drives a new '03 MCS (He is out in California I think).

My suggestion would be for you to call MINI Technician, Franz Laman at Lauderdale MINI in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. This guy is extremely knowledgeable in all MINI service related matters. His phone number is (954)763-4777.

I'll let you know about this weekend as I have a few commitments going on. I'll send you a private message later today.

Best of luck.

[Spy Car]

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

Those are great driving areas, I agree! You must know the area. I spent many happy hours driving them in my old 911 and on my Honda 550. But, I think the CVT will enable my wife to share the car and help me justify it more. She keeps protesting that we don't need a third car! Besides, the Cooper CVT Driving Techniques thread has some good tips on using that transmission in those kinds of settings. But before I decide, I want to know that it isn't prone to trouble.

I guess this is something for you two to work out, but to me it sounds like your wife doesn't have too much interest in a MINI. Why not be honest and admit this is YOUR midlife crisis car and outfit it appropriately?

You have worked hard, your a doctor right? She has her nice autocar (it's an SUV right?...Lexus? )....so isn't time for you to have the little sportscar that will re-kindle your youth (at a price that won't break the bank)? [insert red smiling devil here]. Your wife will love you for the renewed vigor. Don't neuter a car she won't drive in any case

At least do yourself a favor. Rent a MCS or manual Cooper from Budget in Beverly Hills/Marina Del Rey and take it through the canyons (not Kanan, Malibu or Topanga) but the small twisty ones you would otherwise avoid.....and then ask yourself if you can really live without a clutch?

[drgrey]

Spy,...You'r right! Its a Lexus SUV, and she's happy with the status quo. But she's going to be way over mileage limits on her lease when she turns it in. For that and other reasons a third car for us makes sense to me. As for my mid-life crisis...the first of those happened more years ago than I can remember! Ypur suggestion about renting for a day makes a lot of sense. I'm going to look into that. Whats this about MINI runs out my way? Thanks

[Spy Car]

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

Spy,...You'r right! Its a Lexus SUV

A Lexus SUV in Westlake Village, really??? What are the odds?

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

she's happy with the status quo. But she's going to be way over mileage limits on her lease when she turns it in. For that and other reasons a third car for us makes sense to me.

Only makes sense if you can get her to drive your sedan (let's see BMW maybe? Mercedes?) because there is NO WAY she is going to drive a MINI. Let's be real. Why even pretend? You on the otherhand have a great opportunity to acquire a Cooper S (the car you really want any way) and she can split her time between the other two cars.

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

As for my mid-life crisis...the first of those happened more years ago than I can remember! Ypur suggestion about renting for a day makes a lot of sense. I'm going to look into that. Whats this about MINI runs out my way? Thanks

Never to late to have a second or even third midlife crisis, especially with advances in medicine. And these cars are so cheap compared with the alternatives. Believe me you will get more attention around there from friends and collegues (and strangers on the street) by driving a Cooper S than you would in a Porsche. And you will have more fun in the canyons. Trust me doc the MCS is a supercar back on those roads--really unbelievable!!!

Yes they are fairly regular MINI meets that start up just down the street from where you live. Usually a bit of socialising (and scoping out various mods) and then a run on some of those great backroads. It's a lot of fun I'll tell you.

Look on the Southern California section of MINI2 (and MCO) for announcements. Hope to see you there in your MINI and we can share a laugh

[drgrey]

Spy..."Only makes sense if you can get her to drive your sedan (let's see BMW maybe?" Nope Lexus SC 430. Nice car, high in comfort and power but low in the fun department. I called Budget and will be renting a S in a week or so. Thanks for that tip.

[Spy Car]

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

Spy..."Only makes sense if you can get her to drive your sedan (let's see BMW maybe?" Nope Lexus SC 430. Nice car, high in comfort and power but low in the fun department. I called Budget and will be renting a S in a week or so. Thanks for that tip.

Darn....I almost said "your LEXUS"

Guess I pushed my luck.

I was also told that Midway in Santa Monica might rent MINIs. I do think renting the S is a very good idea. I think you will find this car will offer you the experience you really want. Budget is going to kill you on the excess milage charges for sure...still it will be the best money you ever spent.

Please get back to us post drive at let us know what you think (and try not to strain your face from smiling too hard--seriously ).

You also might wanna take those hard canyon test rides solo (if you know what I mean ).

[CooperS4us]

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

Spy..."Only makes sense if you can get her to drive your sedan (let's see BMW maybe?" Nope Lexus SC 430. Nice car, high in comfort and power but low in the fun department. I called Budget and will be renting a S in a week or so. Thanks for that tip.

DrGrey, I would strongly suggest for you to try both the Cooper CVT and the MCS back to back. When buying a MINI, it is to your advantage to approach every available model with an open mind. You could even throw the Cooper 5-speed into the mix. Take them all to those exciting canyon back roads and see which one you'll like better. Do not dismiss the CVT or the MCS based on comments you read here. Experience them both for yourself and then come to your own conclusions.


Have fun while doing it.

[drgrey]

Spy...You mention Midway in Santa Monica. Is that a dealer, car rental place or what?

[Spy Car]

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

Spy...You mention Midway in Santa Monica. Is that a dealer, car rental place or what?

It's a car rental. I do not know for sure that they have MINIs....but I was told once they do. Budget has them for sure.

Have fun

[drgrey]

Thanks, Spy, I contacted them and will arrange a rental soon. I'll let you know how it works out.

[jsteine2]

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

Planning to buy a MINI for a third car to be shared with my wife. Am considering a CVT for her ease of use. But before making that choice, would love to hear from owners with CVT ecperience-good and bad. Thanks

Share? I thought that too... it is now hers! I get to order my own this weekend.... but, back to her CVT... it is wonderful!, marvelous! We, she is just rolling on 10k, no problems, absolutely fun to drive... and great mileage. "the BEAST" had 17's on it till about a month ago... she wants to drive it this winter... I said "not with those tires" I found a set of 15" stock with the oe tires.... her mileage jumped from 31 or 32 to 35mpg. She loves it, I love it, and the environment loves it.

Can't say enough good stuff.

JS