IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2004 MINI Convertible (R52)

UK launch of the R52 MINI Convertible range featuring One, Cooper, and supercharged Cooper S petrol engines, a two-stage power roof with sunroof function, and updated Getrag manual transmissions.

What changed for 2004

  • •Introduction of the first modern MINI Convertible (R52) with drop-down boot tailgate and 120-litre cargo area
  • •Electric soft-top with 15-second opening time and built-in 40cm front sliding sunroof mode operable up to 75mph
  • •Tritec 1.6-litre engine range comprising 90bhp One, 116bhp Cooper, and 170bhp supercharged Cooper S
  • •Factory fitment of Getrag manual gearboxes (5-speed on One/Cooper, 6-speed on Cooper S) and revised three-piece dashboard

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Deteriorated front suspension lower wishbone rear bushes, worn drop links, and play in track rod ends
  • !Failing electro-hydraulic power steering pump causing steering stiffness or total hydraulic assist loss
  • !Rear brake calliper binding and uneven parking brake performance due to sticking handbrake mechanisms
3
Known Issues
3
Serious
0
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Roof Motor and Microswitch Faults

SeriousBodywork & Rust

The electro-hydraulic hood relies on healthy microswitches, wiring, and drains. Water or switch failure can stop the roof mid-cycle.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£900
Warning Signs:

Roof stops halfway, Warning chimes during opening, Boot divider or roof warning lights

What to Inspect:
  • Run the hood fully multiple times
  • Check the parcel shelf divider is present and sensed correctly
  • Inspect the pump area and drains for moisture
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Midland Gearbox Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Early non-S convertibles share the weak 5-speed Midland manual gearbox used in first-generation hatchbacks.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Gear whine, Difficulty selecting gears, Noise worsening once warm

What to Inspect:
  • Confirm whether it is an early 5-speed car
  • Test every gear under load and overrun
  • Look for gearbox replacement paperwork
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Power Steering Pump Failure

SeriousSteering

Like the hatch, the electro-hydraulic steering pump can overheat and fail, often after noisy operation has been ignored for months.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£700
Warning Signs:

Whining at parking speeds, Heavy steering when hot, Burning smell near the pump area

What to Inspect:
  • Listen after a full-lock manoeuvre
  • Inspect for evidence of the revised cooling fan
  • Check battery charging and voltage stability
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2004 MINI Convertible (R52)

  • Cycle the convertible roof through both sunroof and full opening cycles multiple times to verify latch alignment and microswitch health
  • Check the boot floor under the carpet, battery well, and rear footwells for moisture caused by blocked hood drainage channels
  • Listen for excessive steering whine on full lock and ensure the cooling fan beneath the power steering pump runs freely
  • On Cooper S models, listen for rattles from the supercharger PTO water pump drive gears and verify supercharger oil servicing history
2005
Check a 2004 MINI Convertible (R52) by Registration