IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2004–2005 MINI Convertible (R52)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2004–2005 MINI Convertible (R52). 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
3
Serious
0
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2004–2005 period has 1 more issue than the MINI Convertible (R52) average across all year periods.

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.

Most affected: One Convertible, Cooper Convertible, Cooper S Convertible

Estimated cost: £300–£900Affects: 2004–2008Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Run the hood fully multiple times
  • ✓Check the parcel shelf divider is present and sensed correctly
  • ✓Inspect the pump area and drains for moisture

Midland Gearbox Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

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

Most affected: One Convertible, Cooper Convertible

Estimated cost: £800–£1,500Affects: 2004–2005Often appears around: 50,000–100,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Gear whine
  • •Difficulty selecting gears
  • •Noise worsening once warm

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Confirm whether it is an early 5-speed car
  • ✓Test every gear under load and overrun
  • ✓Look for gearbox replacement paperwork

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.

Most affected: All R52 convertibles

Estimated cost: £400–£700Affects: 2004–2008Often appears around: 40,000–90,000 miles

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen after a full-lock manoeuvre
  • ✓Inspect for evidence of the revised cooling fan
  • ✓Check battery charging and voltage stability

Buying Tips for the 2004 MINI Convertible (R52)

  • ✓Buy on roof condition and dry interior condition before worrying about cosmetic trim
  • ✓Early One and Cooper manuals can still suffer the same Midland gearbox weakness as the hatch
  • ✓Inspect the rear arches, boot floor, and roof drains for trapped moisture and corrosion
  • ✓Cooper S convertibles need the same supercharger service evidence as the hatch
2006–2008 MINI Convertible (R52)

Browse 2004–2005 MINI Convertible (R52) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2004–2005 MINI Convertible (R52) vehicles.

View 2004–2005 Directory

Other MINI Convertible (R52) Year Periods

2004–20052006–2008

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