MINI USA has just announced internally that they will be recalling approximately 16,900 model year 2016-2017 MINI Clubman (produced from Start-of- Production (October 2015) through March 2017. The issue involved brake lamps that may not not conform to a Federal requirement. Key word is may not because it’s not known how many MINIs slipped through production with this defect.

What can happen as a result of this issue?

MINI Clubman
MINI Clubman

When a turn signal is activated, although a part of the brake lamp remains illuminated, another part of the brake lamp is no longer illuminated. Specifically, the “inner portion” of the brake lamp is no longer illuminated. However, the “outer portion” of the brake lamp remains illuminated, and still satisfies the Federal requirement regarding brake lamp size and brake lamp luminosity (brightness).

Can I determine if this issue exists in my vehicle?

The easiest way is to find a friend, have them get in your car and apply the brakes (while you’re checking what is illuminating.

Can I continue to drive my vehicle?

Yes. When a turn signal is activated, the “outer portion” of the brake lamp, which remains illuminated, still satisfies the Federal requirement regarding brake lamp size and brake lamp luminosity (brightness).

Great – So how will MINI fix my Clubman?

The car will get a specific software update that will reprogram how the brake lamps are activated.

How will I be informed of this Non-Compliance Recall?

You will receive a letter via First Class mail in April advising you of this recall and to immediately schedule an appointment with an authorized MINI dealer to have this recall performed.

– You can locate your nearest authorized MINI dealer at www.miniusa.com/dealer.
– To ensure MINI has your most recent contact and vehicle information, please register your
vehicle at www.miniusa.com/ol (this will give you access to factory initiated campaigns and other information specific to your MINI – we’d recommend it).

Do I have to wait for my letter in order to have my vehicle serviced?

Owners will be contacted letter to schedule an appointment. Because MINI is ramping up this fix it’s best to wait for notification before contacting your dealer.