MINI Cooper Replace Starter R53 R50 R52 2002-2006

How to replace starter motor without removing exhaust manifold, on a first generation MINI Cooper. Mechanic's eye view.
Buy the starter motor here.
This one does NOT fit a R53 Cooper S. Maybe it's for a manual transmission R50?
Part no: 17855
amzn.to/11iAHOZ
This one DOES fit a 2002-2006 Cooper S and suspected to also fit a 2002-2006 automatic R50 non-S
Part No. 17854
amzn.to/1GT8ATY
Lotsa 3/8 inch socket extensions:
Regular length:
amzn.to/1v2gjtd
Extra long:
amzn.to/1C1B2oq
Ratcheting box wrench set:
amzn.to/1Guo3ve
Thanks for watching, please share, like and subscribe! Check out all my videos: kzbin.info...
"DIY videos provided for reference/entertainment purposes only. Only work on your car if you have the right tools and are comfortable doing so. If in doubt, consult a professional. Mod MINI is not responsible for any 'mistakes' or 'incidents' arising out of your working on your own vehicle. Have fun and stay safe!" Follow #ModMINI on Twitter to get notified of new video uploads! / modminiyoutube #ModMINIKZbin Thanks for watching!
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[@franknativi]

So I did this yesterday. Took me about an two hours but autozone deal me the wrong part. I instantly went back in with both new and old part to show them. Thank again for all your videos.

[@jskeith11]

So glad you clarified the difference between the #17855 and #17854. The auto parts store by me ordered #17855 (apparently the part was under a different number). So when it came in I had them measure the gear. Sure enough, they ordered the wrong part.

[@abbleshawce]

just wanted to say thanks man for all the videos. just bought a r53 here in 2017 with 91k miles and your videos are going to give me peace of mind and save me a lot of money and ill have some fun with the new confidence

[@johnhoughton1308]

Hey Mod MINI, thanks for the video! I was half way into this project before looking up the procedure and my heart sank when I saw "remove exhaust manifold" thanks to your video I had the confidence to keep at it and wiggled it right out! FYI the 17855 is indeed correct for the manual transmission! Please add that to your notes.

[@mightymikee]

I just did this today. It took me 7 hours. I didn't mean to go fast but also did not go slow on purpose. I do all of my vehicle repair and had not need dealer or mechanic for past 20 years across 10 cars I owned in between. Having said that, a few things that I think would be worth mentioning on top of this wonderful video. Heat shields can be manipulated on R50 as well. One of the biggest challenges was removing cables and reinstalling them. I was on my back with R50 on the ramp. I barely had enough room to use one arm. Working alone makes it incredibly difficult. My R50 didn't have the second heat shield.

[@ModMINI]

I've found that removing the axle or exhaust manifold helps. But yeah it's a crummy job.

[@desmondmarshall7384]

Great tutorial video. I am a new Mini owner and have done all repairs myself so far. Replacing my starter is next, and your video is just what I was looking for.

[@timbrett1532]

This dude is the S$%T!!!!! He's helped me through all my replacements & repairs!!! I trust what he says & how he goes through all the steps!!! SO THANKFUL!!!!

[@dreamwalker3699]

Thank You very much for all your video uploads, they are both in detail and easy to follow.

[@tdug3432]

Thank you for making this video. It really helped me and saved me a lot of time by not having to remove the exhaust manifold like the Bentley manual says.

[@Mistermopar]

Hi, from across the pond! My R53 starter quit on me and I was going to remove it the usual way and found I had the usual seized nuts on the exhaust. After the obligatory cussing I thought I'd check your site and see if you had any ideas and..........I found this! I followed your method to the letter and, with some further cussing, job done! Many thanks for some great videos, your efforts are truly appreciated. Tony

[@ashrana4642]

You sir. Are an absolute legend! I'm just doing one now. And I've managed to get it out! Thanks so much!!!

[@joemiele3189]

Hey, Thank you so much. I did this job myself and the only thing I would say is that I found it easier to access starter bolts from the top. They are easily accessible. Then I disconnect the wires once the starter is in my hand. I did take off exhaust manifold to just to make it easier. Joe

[@shaun8256]

Wow I've done that before, trying to install without comparing. Love the half upgrading on some of the coopers you work on.

[@baconman412]

Just did this exact job today. PITA. I also got the wrong starter just like in this video, so that was really annoying. Video saved me some time as I knew right aways what the issue was. TIP: My exhaust manifold bolts came out easy, so I recommend trying that it will make this job alot less painful. Just having the extra wiggle room from the manifold being loose makes a world of a difference.

[@321357w]

Good stuff and Merry Christmas and a happy new year Kurt.

[@martinezuneek3500]

Just finished the same process on my mini R50 04,Thanks to your video,

[@johnrussell1486]

This video was an amazing help in changing the starter on a 2007 Cooper S convertible. Thank you.

[@psrc7272]

U a bad man,,,blessed hand s

[@airoh11]

Great vid! Thanks all your videos are very helpful!

[@JusttheBowies]

Just went through the wrong starter size on my '03 mini . Wish I had looked at it or seen this vid before installing it lol. At least I can do this in 20 minutes now.....Thanks for the vid.

[@MGdriver77]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video.

[@basilleonardo]

I had a dream once that my Mini's engine was that clean... :)

[@michaelwilson6806]

Looked like two different starters. I noticed a lot of oil under that vehicle also. Great video as always.

[@ModMINI]

Thanks! The starters were identical except for the housing/pinion gear. The oil is from a leaking aftermarket oil sending unit, the owner will address that one later.

[@unigateman]

Hi from France.. I am going to try this tomorrow. I will let you know.. Great vid

[@esub4819]

Love your videos mate. Keep them coming. Legend 👍

[@brianndolo1910]

Hey thanks for your videos men. Just got done replacing mine!

[@bigpapa_bmx9200]

@tim Brett same here did a top end overhaul on our R 53 motor with some other miscellaneous things and mini mod let me tell you came through time and time again.. been an amazing adventure thanks to Mini mod!

[@FactsMattersUSA]

Great video, another added tip when removing the starter is to just remove the drivers wheel then used those extensions for a quick removal. I do this first, then do everything else from the engine compartment. Once you get the hang of it, it shouldn't take no more than 30mins

[@MecanoDeLaCave]

I wish it was showed in the video. I didn't read that comment until after doing it, but removing the right-hand side wheel allows for direct access to the bottom bolt with a meter or so of extensions. It's pretty much mandatory if that bolt is stuck, so that you can use a breaker bar, and the time lost removing the wheel is easily offset by how quick it is to unscrew/rescrew that bolt (without electric ratchet) when you don't have to struggle in a tight space.

[@cspreach1963]

Thank you for the tip. Gonna try this on mine when I replace the starter soon.

[@JussiKoukku]

Great vid once again. I need to do this job on my 2006 R53, but I have an OBX exhaust manifold, so I probably need to remove it...

[@jimcurran3055]

Thanks so much for this video. I think your use of a ratcheting wrench on the upper bolt is critical. I did not have that tool and using a socket and ratchet led to rounding of the upper bolt as I tried to work in and around the manifold pipes. Thanks again for this video!

[@ModMINI]

You're probably right. Not a lot of clearance. Other option is to drop the exhaust and then you'll have a ton of room.

[@rolosport]

Thanks for your video. Helped me out tons

[@JonasMacaneiro]

I’ve just replaced my starter ... thanks a lot... this video was so much helpful!

[@omoyorubaworkshop]

Hi,I really appreciate ur video it help a lot,thanks. I changed my starter and the matured work, Please I have a question 1,what is maximum level of the temperature on the Gage,my temperature is rising more than the half

[@loumar1684]

Hi frim Florida!! I ordered the starter motor last week and will give it a shot replacing the old one.Wondering why not just remove the tire. At any rate I do appreciate you providing this video.Thanks

[@ModMINI]

Removing the tire might help a second person grab on to the thing but there is an oil filter housing in the way to the right and a transmission and steering shaft in the way to the left. The start cannot be pulled out from the side unless the header is unbolted.

[@gregallen690]

Your the Absolute BEST!!!!!!!! I've done thousands of dollars worth of work myself thanks 2u!!!!!🙂 I have owned 3 r53's & they are the Best to drive & the WORST to work on!!!! (But you know that already) I wish you were near me cause you know these cars inside & out!!! I'm 6' with big hands & no patience!!!!🤣🤣🤣 Thank you 😊

[@kevat310]

Thanks for the great vid! Very helpful. I fixed mine today: 2003 R50 with manual gearbox. The starter that you changed looks different from mine. I guess that one was an automatic. That was probably the difference you were talking about.

[@aaronmariscal4673]

Great informative video, thanks for uploading!

[@ModMINI]

aaron mariscal Thanks!

[@MS06SNYC]

Would like to ask 17855 is for automatic or manual, I'm kinda confused which one should I go if I have the r53 stick

[@MCRIZZLE1]

Excellent video! Thanks!

[@michaelzaiser7366]

Had exact same problem. I don't deal with Auto parts stores but major wholesalers. They had it wrong too. It appears in fact that Amazon, eBay, and (was in my case) the Wholesale community list the 855 starter as what is required for Gen 1 Mini Cooper S with 6 speed. I told them I needed the 854 and they said "what? the 854 s for an automatic!!". Well, I got the 854 and it is exactly what I needed. The pinion gear of the 855 is not the only thing that is different; the housing is way different or larger and you will NOT fit an 855. Do yourself a favor and watch these videos.

[@JussiKoukku]

Well, they were partly right... the 854 is also for the automatic. :D

[@Caicosbill]

Very clear and concise thank you!

[@willbsmith2]

Great Video!I followed everything you say, and did!Sucessful install!!Thank you!!

[@MortonLuvz2drum]

Once again. You have saved me hundreds! In some ways this was not hard, but in other ways it was just as hard as it looks. Very tight space to work with. But, then again every job on the mini is that way. FYI Some auto parts may have the correct number ready for you in 2020. It was 17584S at Advance.

[@pardeepchana674]

Hello. If I want to remove the exhaust manifold for better access is it a case of just undoing the bolts and shifting it out of the way slightly or does the entire manifold need to come out?

[@tommitchell5801]

Great help as usual, thank you

[@DHEvans]

Thanks for the video. Have you had any issues with non OEM starters failing due to heat soak ? The one you suggest in your link looks affordable but how long does it last ? After 16 years I replaced my Bosch with a Denso ( Toyota ) that works well but suffers from heat soak.

[@ModMINI]

I haven't seen any issues with failing aftermarket starters but the OE starters rarely fail.

[@peterwackel997]

Did this job two days ago. I can strongly recommend to disassemble the manifold as this prevents a lot from the "pain in the a**" - part (heat shield disassembly, starter screws, getting the starter out & the new one in etc etc...) . There are 8 10mm screws which hold the manifold, mine came off very well . Dont forget to disconnect the lambda sensors. just my 2 cents.

[@ModMINI]

Yeah. Or remove passenger (right) axle

[@adrianhandleyable]

cheers great video, my turn to try this tomorrow on my sisters 2005 cooper .

[@alsatch_]

Hi, we do a lot of DIY videos aswell. It seems like you are using some sort of head mount for a go pro, is this correct? Or are you using Glasses with a built in camera? I think we need something like this because it saves time handling cameras and organising mounts etc. Thank you. Your videos are excellent.

[@ModMINI]

+Diagnosticsworld Head mount GoPro. Compromise between video stability and getting the right shot. I don't have time or space to be working with tripods/mounts, so this is the best way to actually show what is happening. I can't see the view screen but the camera is so close to my eyes that it usually sees exactly what I see.

[@kfgreenwald166]

FYI. To this day 7/9/2020 Autozone STILL incorrectly shows the 855 as the starter for the manual and the 854 for the automatic. The management at the store doesn't seem to care to take the steps to correct their data. So to summarize the 854 (manual) 855 (automatic). The 854 (manual trans) should have the longer snout and smaller pinion gear whereas the 855 (auto trans) will have the larger pinion and stubby snout.

[@mohammadkamran5862]

Mr. Mod mini, my r53 started making a screeching kind of noise on cold starts for maybe a second or two. After I drive the car for awhile and shut it off then start it there’s no noise. From the forums that I’ve read, it’s a possible starter problem. What would your opinion be on this. Please let me know. For reference: on the weekend I put in new coolant and was bleeding it when the coolant reservoir over flowed and a lot of coolant spill into the engine bay. It’s since then I’ve noticed the noise this week.

[@ModMINI]

I would have to see the car. Sorry. People as noise questions all the time.

[@martinezuneek3500]

I thank you very much for your videos, I have taken many challenges on with my mini (that I wouldn’t have any other way) thanks to your vids, I have a question the same process your using on the R53 can I used the same going into a R50 automatic, ??? Thanks again!!!

[@ModMINI]

Same process, probably different part number.

[@waterlover]

how did you know it was the starter? my mini cooper s r53 2003 just quit. I turn on ignition switch and all lights come on and doesn't even click or do anything. I truly appreciate your help thank you for your videos

[@jessicaferreira6059]

Do you have a video about the charging system electrical work? I'm having issues with mine. Both starter and alternator are good. Maybe I'm missing a fuse within the system?

[@ModMINI]

Pretty sure it's just battery and alternator. The voltage regulator is inside the alternator.

[@philiprader1479]

Having trouble reinstalling the heat shield as I mangled it (the one with the rubber grommets). Is it advisable to use heat wrap (used for exhaust pipes) on the manifold pipes instead of buying a new (expensive) shield? Great video as all your others...your are helping me keep my R53 on the road.

[@ModMINI]

the heat shield is better. Manifold wraps trap moisture and can cause rust. You can probably find a used heat shield on auction site or similar cost to manifold wrap.

[@jeremyryerson2755]

Thanks again for this! Used your clutch replacement series of two videos successfully and now I'm waiting for my new starter from amazon. Question though....I tired to roll start my Cooper S and it came to a halt. I still think the starter is the problem because I have a new battery. What do you think? Thanks!

[@gregallen690]

I tried rolling jump start down a hill in 3rd gear ⚙️. No eff'n way, 2mch compression!!!! It's your starter.

[@jeremyryerson2755]

@@gregallen690 Update...it was the alternator holding the engine from starting. Removed the serpentine belt and the car would turn over. Replaced alternator and gtg. Car is long gone now though and I miss her, but replaced with a 2013 JCW.

[@gavinotavera9492]

Great video as always. Can a ruined starter interfere with the battery dash light and the steering pump making the first light on late and the second start up with the ignition key in position II without starting up engine? Have already changed steering pump with no result. Anyway, the starter does his work cranking up the engine.

[@ModMINI]

Not sure if I understand. Have you tested or replaced battery?

[@gavinotavera9492]

@@ModMINI yes i did but nothing changed. To be more clear, when I turn ingnition in position II without engaging the starter, the dash battery light turn on late and After a while the steering pump starts slowly.

[@dominicfera4516]

I'm with Christina comment from a year ago. Are there three wires that go to the starter. I have one not connected forgot where it goes. So reading the comments it sounds like it goes to the other open 13mm terminal. Is that correct all three terminals on the starter have a wire bolted to them?

[@ModMINI]

All three terminals have wires but not all come from the wire harness. One goes from large solenoid terminal into the starter motor. Another goes from + battery cable into the other large solenoid terminal. Third goes from ignition switch/ECU to the 10mm middle connector on the solenoid.

[@dominicfera4516]

+Mod MINI oh the the two big wires go to each big terminal? I wires the two larger wires to the same terminal on the back of the starter. The terminal facing the rear of the car. I did this because later I found a pic on pelicanparts website (clutch tutorial) that showed it this way. The car started and runs so I'm assuming this is t really an issue. Thank you so much for replying we think you videos are great and I couldn't have don't all this work without them!

[@Ghostpredatr]

Great video, only one on KZbin

[@ModMINI]

Ghostpredatr I think there is another video where the host talks about replacing the starter but I actually show you!

[@Ghostpredatr]

***** Yes, you show the step by step process, going to do this soon thanks to you.

[@rodneyrodgers9229]

Great video and even with towing it home, it will cost us less than having a shop do it and that's with a new starter from Rock Auto. They all call for 2.8 hours of labor. I do have a question though. I am working on an 05 Mini Cooper S with the 6 speed automatic transmission. They show that the 17854 part numbers to be for automatic/CVT transmissions and the 17855 for the manual. It appears you are working on a manual....do you think the 17854 part number will fit an automatic 6 speed?

[@prestonmiller6528]

Rodney Rodgers as a technician who works on mini coopers on the daily, it does matter if the transmission is manual or automatic. I’ll assure you, removing the axle is actually quite easy for starter removal

[@Markkrivera]

What are the specs on the two 15MM bolts? I want to get new ones but can’t seem to find them.

[@gitnote]

Thanks for a very informative video! I have intermittent problems with the starter motor on my Mini. Did you ever come across a brush set for it, I would like to save a few bucks?

[@ModMINI]

I've always replaced with new or good rebuilt. Starter problems can be problems with solenoid, bearings, bushings, etc... not worth the extra labor if it doesn't work or fails again.

[@asb1583]

How long of an extension would you say you needed for breaking those bolts lose? Trying to get all the tools I need before I start.Thanks for this video.V/RAdam

[@ModMINI]

+Adam Barraclough I don't recall, but most bolts can be accessed by some mixture of 3inch, 5 inch extensions and regular and deep drive sockets. You can never have too many extensions.

[@johnr7852]

Thanks for the great video. The new starter I installed had 4 connection points. A ground strap from the solenoid to the starter, which I left alone, a 13 mm that I connected the two heavy power lines, a 10mm that I connected the trigger line, and then an 8mm point that I left alone. With the new starter installed the starter motor started running; not engaging the solenoid as soon as I reconnected the negative battery lead. (The key wasn't in the ignition) So I disconnected the 10mm trigger line to begin my trouble shooting and the starter motor ran once again when I connected the battery. Either I have a bad new starter or I'm picking u[p a ground somehow? Any ideas?

[@ModMINI]

Bench test it to be sure. The line from the solenoid to the starter is not a ground strap - that's the switched positive current line. You can try connecting 12v to the solenoid input side with nothing connected to the smaller bolts (I don't know why there are two) and see what happens. Are you sure you connected the unswitched 12v power lead to the correct side of the solenoid? It should go on the outside solenoid stud. The inside stud should connect to the starter motor and nothing else.

[@johnr7852]

I pulled the new starter back out and had the big box store give me a replacement. It was defective. The replacement worked fine.

[@superfly1842]

I've been fighting this same issue. My strap wire from the solenoid to the starter motor is grounding. Everything's unplugged. The trigger wire from ECU is also grounding. The car was cranking over when battery was plugged in and key out if ignition. Up until I disconnected the cables from the 13mm stud(battery and alternator cable). But I had those cables grounding somehow. Unhooked it and it stopped grounding. Bolted them back and plugged in the battery and its find now but stil have ground at solenoid to starter and ECU to solenoid trigger wire. Is it just in a grounded state when switched off?

[@toddgodfrey4481]

Can I email you a question regarding my 05 S?

[@davidguenther9994]

Is there any issues using the starter that you put in the link to amazon as apposed to the one at a mini store? Was really skeptical because it was so much cheaper.

[@davidguenther9994]

I know this is an old post but really could use the insight

[@vidalcharide]

Thanks mate, thankyou for sharing.

[@atlanticlondon1471]

hello there, great vid. quick question, is it that much easier to just un bolt the manifold or is there just no point ?

[@ModMINI]

Depends how comfortable you are taking things apart. If you know what you're doing it's easier to take out the axle or the manifold, a lot less struggling due to the lack of space.

[@beaudansizen2157]

Great video, thank you. As I am searching, everything I see lists the 54 as for automatic transmission and the 55 for the manual - I didn't hear you mention this in the video, and the way you describe it sounds like this distinction is not always true - I just want to clarify with you (especially since everything listed for my 05 MCS manual says the 55 is correct). The car you are working on in the video is definately a manual - you put the 54 in the manual? With most cars I would just bring the old starter into the store and compare, but it looks like no one carries this in stock so I have to order it :(

[@ModMINI]

+Beau Dansizen It was a manual shifter so yes, I think the other starter must be for automatic or maybe for an R50 Cooper non-S

[@rodneyrodgers9229]

@@ModMINI I'm still not clear on that as I am working on an 05 (R53?)with a 6 spd automatic in it. The 54 is what the parts manuals say will fit Do you think it's the 55 that would fit?

[@JayySupreme]

This video was super helpful and knocked the job out in about 2 hours... only problem was my car started smoking up and also a burning smell not a lot but a decent amount for me to go ahead and turn the car off. Any leads to where I went wrong ??

[@ModMINI]

Normal for there to be some smoke if you touched exhaust manifold with dirty hands

[@JayySupreme]

That does add up now !! My hands were covered in all types of grease lmao one more thing my battery light came on... is that normal as well ?? Or is the battery really low ? Side note I’ve replaced the battery and alternator a month ago

[@streetlife8244]

JayySupreme so what happened?

[@JayySupreme]

Street Life I was in a rush that night so I didn’t connect one of the connections onto the starter... after I put it on all those things went away and car ran fine

[@streetlife8244]

JayySupreme sweet man congrats. I have to replace the engine started, buy a new battery, and then get the transmission fixed. It’ll probably be more than the cost of car. However, I don’t care for the 1 week I had my mini half way working I liked it. Especially the Supercharger whine.

[@raptorcon2391]

After I start my Mini the starter keeps going and grinds for like 10 seconds and then stops do you think it's the starter not pulling back the gear Or could it be a relay or something telling it to keep trying to start it? It dosen't do it every time.

[@ModMINI]

Sounds like bad starter solenoid. Replace starter.

[@BirkirRGujonsson]

My R53 starter motor now only "sometimes" turn over, do you think it's a starter motor issue or EWS? I get the relay click when turning the key...

[@ModMINI]

+Birkir Guðjónsson relay click is probably starter motor or weak battery.

[@JuanSanchez-kv9yl]

Great teacher!

[@CountingThree]

As always, a very useful video! I've tried twice now to remove the two 15mm bolts connecting the starter to the car. Even with a breaker bar, penetrating fluid, heat, and eventually some bolt extracting sockets, I've thus far only wasted 5 hours of my time. It is so frustrating trying to get these bolts off!

[@ModMINI]

Sometimes they round out... depending on available room, it may be faster to remove entire drivetrain and fight with it on the bench. I've had to cut them off before.

[@locogringo8397]

another possible removal route is via the passenger(Right side) wheel well , remove the oil filter housing and it looks like you can just unbolt and pull out the wheel well

[@christianmedina3865]

Hi. I was about to put back my starter on a 04 cooper s. I have an extra connector besides this two? i was wondering where it goes. I Can't remember where it came off. Thanks

[@ModMINI]

+Christian Medina There is a third that goes to the starter itself (the solenoid). Is it that? Otherwise, the only wires down there are oil pressure sender, power steering pump power, power steering pump control wire, and power steering pump fan.

[@christianmedina3865]

*****​ I dont think its a solenoid. it looks like the same connector that goes to the starter itself. is it possible that you have 2 wire that goes to the starter itself besides the other small one? Thanks..

[@ModMINI]

+Christian Medina I think you are referring to the solenoid connector. There are two 10mm or 13mm nuts (I forget which) + 1 8mm or 10mm nut (I forget which). One of the two larger nut goes to the car wiring to the solenoid input. The other larger nut goes from the solenoid output to the starter motor itself. The smaller nut goes to the ignition. When current is supplied to the smaller wire, The solenoid engages the ring gear and passes current between the two large wires. Look at some photos of starter motors to get an idea.

[@christianmedina3865]

*****​ Hello,So I guess i have 2 connectors that goes to the starter itself. I was able to pu it back this morning. everything is working good. I checked some starter picture like you suggested( bmw/mini) Most of them have 2 connectors that goes to the starter itself. Starter is new. but sometimes the engine doesn't turn over though. I hear clicks,I have all the dashlights on,I hear my fuel pump working.? any suggestions? I'll start with the fuses and connections. Thank you for your helpful videos. You keep my Mini running ✌👍👌

[@ModMINI]

+Christian Medina battery.

[@ibedoh]

hello, just finished putting the starter back, and im having trouble remembering where all the wires go. more specifically the ground wire. i dont recall where it came off? i have the large 13mm 12v wire going to the starter, and the smaller 10mm one as well...but i have the ground wire, which id ASSume goes on the starter? but i see no bolt or point to where it should go, and its driving me nuts! help...

[@ModMINI]

Ground wire is on the engine mount next to oil dipstick.

[@aidankephart6926]

Thank you so much 👍🏼

[@burtman9649]

Hello sir! I have a question about the heat shield that protects the starter. Is it absolutely necessary and what would the possible consequences of not having it on be? Silly question I know, but I just got through replacing my starter for the 2nd time in less than 2 years thanks to Amazons TYC, only lasted from October 2019 to march 2021. Amazon told me to eat it💩😡 I'm tired of my car and so on! 2003 R50 Chili

[@ModMINI]

You need the heat shield. It does an important job.

[@mekanik_ndeso911]

Good Job !!! 👍👍👍

[@andrewpoush9938]

good vid. it would be even more helpful if you had all the fastener torque specs listed in the video description field

[@vaneyjohn1196]

? I have a 04 base mini Change the starter check relays and it’ll not crack do you have a idea what can be the problem please

[@ModMINI]

broken engine ground strap, clutch startup lockout safety switch, or key / immobilizer issue.

[@jamieburnett1480]

the car won't start so all of the starters only lasted a few times. I have changed cra k sensor, checked fuel pressure, it's around fifty. I have been messing with this mini for six months. I have grown attached to her?

[@ModMINI]

You must have a bent/broken flywheel or something.

[@greg-gz9pr]

How much connector on starter? After removing the motor I remember more if there were 2 connector on the + or just 1 alone. Thank you for your help and thank you for your video I'm a fan :)

[@ModMINI]

One large 13mm bolt, one small 10mm bolt. The third connector is from the solenoid to the starter itself.

[@johnjonothan6154]

Excellent very detailed video and a great help....... but on a difficulty grade I would give it a 8/10 very finicky and you gotta be patient and..... unless you have a good assortment of tools ....I would advise you to forget it.

[@Mattytube18]

@modmini Would this be the same job on a 2007?

[@ModMINI]

No, not the same.

[@Highsteel21]

Thanks so much. I have a 2005. I hope it’s the relay because I never had starter issues. Parked it and tried to start it. Nothing. No sound but won’t start.

[@alvinmcgrath]

Having the same problem now with a 2006 R52S. Battery has power but nothing when I turn the key. How to test relay?

[@Highsteel21]

@@alvinmcgrath Get a relay tester. They are cheap on Amazon.

[@babynymph6441]

would you happen to know where my VVT Solenoid is located on my R50-R52 02-03 Mini Cooper (Base) NOT SUPERCHARGED?!

[@ModMINI]

R50 do not have VVT

[@katherinelawson5814]

Had no issues with my r52, parked it for the season, battery was dead so I bought a new battery and now everything comes on inside the car, initially tried to start as if battery was almost dead again but now car won’t start just gives one single click when key is turned over. At a loss and can only think it’s the starter, any suggestions?

[@ModMINI]

Does the new battery have good state of charge? If so, try turning engine by hand (using crank pulley) to ensure nothing is locked up. Sometimes rings can rust onto cylinder walls. Inject oil into combustion chamber. Try turning backward a tiny amount before turning forward

[@katherinelawson5814]

Mod MINI my husband done that yesterday and everything was good to go there. Brought home a new starter today and cannot get it to align to assemble. The bottom end lines up but not the top. so now dealing with the parts house giving us the wrong starter I’m guessing. Will post an update/any further questions after started replacement. Thanks so much for the insight

[@katherinelawson5814]

The part they gave us is the 17855. Our mini is a 2006 r52. Is the the correct starter?

[@katherinelawson5814]

Ok got the correct starter and it’s on now along with new battery and the car still won’t start🤦‍♀️ anyone have any suggestions on where to start now?

[@simonbullock6878]

Can you help, I have a mini cooper r50. my problem is that I can start my car no problem but I can not switch of I take the key out it still run. iv replaced the ignition switch but its the same. Any ideas please.

[@ModMINI]

I'm not sure. Sorry

[@simonbullock6878]

ok

[@dyaaong6030]

Hello, Mini Mod. i have did exactly what you did.replace the new starter and it turn over for a bit and now its not starting any clue to whats going on?

[@ModMINI]

Not starting as in not turning or not starting as in engine won't run? Check all wires - you may have left something unplugged - easy one to forget is the coil pack.

[@dyaaong6030]

Wow i cant believe this. i fixed the starter and now the steering is hard to turn now. any idea what happened?

[@dyaaong6030]

Forgot to say this but the battery light is on now also. could it be that battery thats causing the steering pump to not trigger?

[@shermantank]

@@dyaaong6030 If anyone else has this problem, the power steering system is hydraulic, but the power steering motor is electric. Check your wiring.

[@inigmay1217]

I don't wish to go through all that to get my starter tested. How can I know or test that's the culprit . I purchased a new battery and I get nothing in the way of a crank (electrical stuff working). I thought it was a coincidence that I just replaced the valve cover gasket, strut mounts and motor mount. But maybe I tweeked something being an absolute novice. How can I be certain it is my starter? -Peace and thank you!

[@ModMINI]

You'd need to get a + jumper lead onto the starter motor terminal...

[@ModMINI]

Oh, if you touched the motor mount, you probably forgot to put back the ground strap that connects to the motor mount. If that is not installed, starter motor won't make a noise.

[@humblestrengthgaragetraining]

im finding difficulty getting lose the 15mm on the bottom any tips?

[@ModMINI]

Cheater bar?

[@humblestrengthgaragetraining]

nice thanks for the tip!

[@collinryser]

Is it possible to replace the starter solenoid alone?

[@ModMINI]

If you can find the part, sure. I don't know if it is something that is standard or hard to find. By the time you figure it out, you may have consumed enough time that considering value of your time, it could be better deal to just replace the whole starter....

[@BigSteveRealtor]

Also looked like the nose cone on the starter was taller. ?

[@ModMINI]

It may have been. We stopped our 'investigation' when we realized the pinion was completely the wrong size.

[@dylanwilkinson8979]

Could you take the starter out of the bottom of the power steering pump wasn’t there?

[@ModMINI]

Remove manifold or remove axle.

[@jamieburnett1480]

I replaced the starter on a 2005 and it keeps breaking the bell housing on the starter? Please help??

[@ModMINI]

+jamie burnett Are you sure you have the right starter motor?

[@marxtr6]

Hardest job I’ve ever done on the mini. That top bolt took over an hour to get out🤯

[@jskeith11]

Did you re-zip tie those cables?

[@ModMINI]

Around the starter motor? Yes.

[@exoticwombat]

I think the difference in the starters you ordered is that one is for a manual and one is for an automatic, which have different flywheels.

[@ModMINI]

Yes, that or Base Cooper instead of Cooper S, base Cooper has very different flywheel as well.

[@unigateman]

Hi there, great vid, I started the work at around 2 today and everything went well up until passing the extension bars to undo the bottom bolt on the starter, what size bars are you diameter bars are you using ? the 10mm nut holding the cables on the starter is a no go. I am going to wait until the starter is free and undo from the bottom.

[@ModMINI]

I don't recall, i just mix and match and use whatever fits.

[@dimitribellakis4352]

I did it without removing anything at all 😂 just takes some patience. I didn't even raise the car. Came out the top

[@LessExpensivefix]

thank you so much I was just fix my car today it was no crank no start I'm the problem who was the starter it was bad

[@s500mbzvip]

What was the symptoms,

[@inigmay1217]

No problems starting prior.