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Mini One Automatic Transmission Issue

I am writing to inquire about a potential issue with my 2010 Mini One's automatic transmission. The vehicle has some kilometers on the odometer. Recently, the check engine light and transmission indicator light have illuminated. I've noticed the gearbox slipping, unclean shifts, and some grinding noises during gear changes. An error is stored in the error memory. My initial thought, based on the symptoms, is a defective automatic transmission converter. Could this be a torque converter lock-up clutch defective? Has anyone else encountered similar problems?

4 comment(s)

I had something similar happen with my Mini One. Check engine light, transmission light, and the gearbox was shifting poorly. I also noticed an engine surge sometimes, especially at lower speeds. Does the grinding noise happen more when the car is cold? It sounds like a classic converter failure to me.

That sounds very similar to what I'm experiencing. The grinding noise is intermittent, but I think you're right, it's worse when the engine is cold. Did you also have the lock-up clutch issue? What was the final diagnosis and repair process for your automatic gearbox?

Yes, it does sound like the lock-up clutch. I didn't try to fix it myself. With those symptoms and the error codes, it is really best to get it checked out by a workshop specializing in automatic gearboxes. They can properly diagnose the extent of the damage from the converter failure and advise on the best course of action.

Thank you for sharing your experience. It sounds like our issues were very similar. I took my Mini One to a transmission specialist, and they confirmed it was indeed a converter failure. The lock-up clutch was completely shot. The transmission repair, including a new torque converter, cost me 2120€. Now it runs smoothly again!

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