Tracking CVTs

[KMLBRUIN]

Just got back from dealer...dropped off my daughters 2003 mini w/cvt to get the transmission fluid changed....$600 later the dealer said everything looks good with no signs of metal shavings on magnet...I store the car for the winter and I hope it enjoys the hibernation and awakes in the spring ready to go!! Anyone have any storage tips or recommendations? Thanks

[Sejanus]

I'm afraid I have no idea. I use mine all year round. You might want to post this question as a separate thread, it might attract a greater response that way.

[mellow1771]

Nobody update miles record in 2011. Please anyone update max miles/km.
I want to know Max miles of CVT, i use R52 CVT too. Now just 53,000km changed fluid 1 time at 50,000km, Thanks.

[Sejanus]

As you noted nobody seems to check in anymore. The record that I know of still seems to remain 198,000 before it failed.

[JEFF10049]

OK checking in just serviced the cvt fluid again 100,000 miles on it now 2004 cooper. Fluid looked good no sign of metal. I used a cvt fluid mad by red line this time I did not have time to drive 200 miles to the dealer to pick some up, and i have to say the transmission is smoother now than after previous service's with the BMW esso factory fluid.
Good or bad I dont know but it is a little nicer to drive in traffic stop and go is smoother.
I'm getting nervous I know it's gonna go someday like any transmission but the no warning part sucks at least with other auto transmissions you can get some warning and normally limp it home.
At least cvt parts are avil now I will repair it if/when it goes out.

Jeff

[WinnieMiniFW]

I guess I should put my CVT in here too!

2003 MC
Just under 49K miles on my CVT with no problems so far


I'll be making my trek down to my MINI dealer in Indianapolis, IN (I live in Fort Wayne, IN about 150 miles away) for some CVT pampering! (400 dollars worth that is!)

Love my CVT!

[Johnson]

2002 MINI, 109,000 miles, no CVT problems other than intermittent surging at stop that has been around from almost day one. Very infrequent now.

[peaks]

Hello,
Sadly I wish I did not have to use the forum but you can please add me to the list of failed CVT transmissions. I purchased a brand new Mini Cooper in 2005 and managed to get a mere 75,000KM only. I just found out I require a new transmission on Tuesday, a few weeks shy of 7 years of otherwise happy ownership. I just had regular maintenance in late September and no problems noted so you can imagine my shock when the service people gave me the news. I am in the process of discussing options for assistance with Mini/BMW Canada but it is a slow and painful process; quoted repair bill for parts and labour is $8,230. If anyone has had any success getting Mini/BMW to take responsibility and assist, I would appreciate any advice you can share.

Thank you and good luck to everyone without any CVT issues to date...just creeps up on you, I can speak from experience.

[Sejanus]

Sorry to hear about your failed CVT. There is apparently a lawsuit brewing so maybe MINI will be more helpful tha they traditionally have been. Good luck.

[peaks]

Thank you Sejanus. I managed to find a copy of the class action suit being filed in California on line. Also, here in Canada there is an investigation being launched by the APA (apa.ca) so I will be following up with them on Monday.

It's really a shame that more is not being done by BMW. I went on the corporate website and read they describe describe themselves as a premium brand which stands for, among other things, being innovative and responsible yet head office is telling me this is what i should expect on a car that is almost 7 years old and it is my responsibility to prove otherwise. It was also interesting to see Mini sales are down at least 10% across all models from last year. Head office says they do not care what a couple of internet forums say but maybe they should.

[snrsarg]

we have a 2003 Cooper with the CVT box, bought Jun 2009 with 30k, now 45k, no problems so far except the EP warning light has come on twice, then gone out again a couple of minutes later, anyone got any ideas why this happens?

[gerrymcquiggan]

2004 MINI Cooper with CVT 52000 miles . Purchased in March 2004. Changed transmission fluid once at about 45000 miles.No issues with transmission.
During warranty period two power steering pumps, battery and 2 window motors replaced. After warranty battery and ABS speed sensor replaced.

[Kumarang123]

Quote: Originally Posted by nonsequitur (original)

I'll take your lead Sejanus...

2002 MINI Cooper CVT (a very early car)
56,000 miles
No Transmission Problems
No general problems since the software issues were resolved.

Hi there what sort of problem did you experience before your software upgrade..

Thanks
Kam

[OzKluger]

79,344km today, and last week had the CVT fluid replaced with Penrite CVT Fluid "V" (full synthetic). No metal filings on the magnetic filler plug, and the mechanic said the old fluid was clean. Over the last two years I've moved to a local, trusted, mechanic and away from the BMW crew. As mentioned two years ago, the engine seems to be getting stronger as it frees up with age and kilometres. The CVT works perfectly, gets a thorough spanking every couple of months but mostly gentle city and suburban driving. The car is still very together, just a couple of months away from its tenth birthday...