Research · Two Seaters
2012 MINI Cooper RoadsterRecalls, problems, MPG & safety
NHTSA lists 0 safety recalls and 68 owner complaints for the 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster. Most complaints involve electrical system (28) and engine (17). The EPA rates it 30 mpg combined.
Combined MPG
30mpg
EPA · 2 versions
NHTSA overall
—
Not rated by NCAP
Safety recalls
0campaigns
NHTSA
Owner complaints
68
Top: electrical system
Fuel cost / yr
$2,600est.
EPA estimate, best version
Safety recalls
NHTSA campaigns for this model year
0 recalls found in NHTSA data for the 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster as of Nov 8, 2026.
Data from NHTSA Recalls API · synced Nov 8, 2026NHTSA vehicle page
Owner complaints by component
68 complaints filed with NHTSA · Mar 2012 – Jul 2026
- Electrical system28
- Engine17
- Air bags13
- Seats5
- Exterior lighting5
- Fuel/propulsion system4
- Power train3
- Seat belts3
- Service brakes3
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
Data from NHTSA Complaints API · synced Nov 8, 2026 · Full problem breakdownNHTSA vehicle page
What owners report most
Verbatim excerpts from NHTSA complaints, by component
Electrical system
28 reports5 fires
“This vin waa not included in a recall however had recall issues it obtained water in the footwell which mini has a recall issue for this and the car was caught on fire it is at the dealership in [XXX]”
Engine
17 reports1 crash6 fires
“This car was maintained, by Mini and BMW authorized mechanics and only had OEM parts installed and followed management of vehicle as directed by manufacturer, throughout its history. It was always driven and kept in moderate weather conditions, no extreme heat, cold, wet, or speeds. Used almost daily for 30-60 minute commutes. Just after 100K miles, total engine failure was suddenly experienced on the freeway, due to combustion in two valves, damaging two cylinders and sudden leaking of the exhaust system under the hood. The manufacturer, BWM, has been shown evidence of malfunctioning of the four cylinder engine and will not show evidence of their grounds for why they will not take responsibility.”
Air bags
13 reports
“The passenger seat occupancy sensor has malfunctioned. The airbag turns off when a passenger of sufficient weight is seated; a warning light comes on intermittently. This happens often, posing a safety risk to the passenger.”
Data from NHTSA Complaints API (owner reports, unverified) · synced Nov 8, 2026
Engines, transmissions & drive
2 versions rated by the EPA
- EPA class
- Two Seaters
- Engines
- 1.6L 4-cyl
- Transmissions
- Automatic (S6) · Manual 6-spd
- Drive
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Fuel
- Premium Gasoline
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
Data from EPA fueleconomy.gov · synced Nov 8, 2026EPA listing
EPA fuel economy by version
City / highway / combined, annual fuel cost and CO₂
EPA
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooper Roadster Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 1.6 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 27 | 34 | 30 | $2,600 | 296 |
| Cooper Roadster Man 6-spd, 4 cyl, 1.6 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 27 | 34 | 30 | $2,600 | 296 |
- 30mpg comb.
- 30mpg comb.
Data from EPA fueleconomy.gov · synced Nov 8, 2026 · Fuel cost is EPA’s annual estimate (15,000 mi, 55% city)
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings
1 tested variant
NHTSA has not published 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster as of Nov 8, 2026.
Data from NHTSA NCAP Safety Ratings API · synced Nov 8, 2026Vehicle 6071
Maintenance basics
General guidance, not the OEM schedule. Check your owner’s manual.
General guidance
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
- Engine oil & filter5,000–10,000 mi
6–12 months - Tire rotation5,000–7,500 mi
Every oil change - Engine air filter15,000–30,000 mi
1–2 years - Cabin air filter15,000–25,000 mi
1–2 years - Brake fluid—
2–3 years - Coolant60,000–100,000 mi
5–10 years - Spark plugs60,000–100,000 mi
— - 12V battery—
3–5 years
Typical intervals for modern cars. Severe service (towing, short trips, extreme heat or cold) shortens them.
2012 Cooper Roadster questions
How many recalls does the 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster have?
0 recalls found in NHTSA data as of Nov 8, 2026.
What are the most common 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster problems?
Owners filed 68 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are electrical system (28), engine (17), air bags (13). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
What MPG does the 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster get?
The EPA rates the 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster at 30 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (2 versions rated).
Data from NHTSA & EPA · synced Nov 8, 2026