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MINI · Compact · 2012–2015

MINI MINI Roadster R59

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
2.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Engine Overview

The MINI MINI Roadster R59 is available with one engine variant at 75 hp.

1.6L Turbo · Benziner· 184 PS
2012 2015
Stay Away! 9 weaknesses

The MINI 1.6L Turbo (Benziner, 184 PS) has the N18B16 (1.6L Turbo) — rated: "Stay Away!", 9 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Water pump failed

The plastic water pump commonly fails between 70,000 and 110,000 km. As a Roadster it is particularly exposed to temperature fluctuations.

Symptoms: Engine temperature rises sharply, 'coolant temperature too high' warning. Coolant level drops quickly, grinding or knocking noises from the engine bay.
from 80,000 km
Ad MINI R59 water pumpcoolant pump MINI Roadster R5911517648827
 Medium

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 21 weaknesses have been documented for the MINI MINI Roadster R59 (2012–2015) — 14 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. One problem engine: N18B16 (1.6L Turbo). Typical issues affect Cooling, Body, Rust, Steering.

MINI Roadster (N18B16, 2012–2015) — Stay Away!: Timing Chain and Chain Tensioner Wear, Turbo Oil Feed Line Coking — Turbo Damage, Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak. Power: 184 PS.

What to watch out for with the MINI MINI Roadster? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the MINI MINI Roadster R59 have? +
The MINI MINI Roadster R59 has 14 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used MINI MINI Roadster R59? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: B38A12 (1.2L Turbo). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the N18B16 (1.6L Turbo). Problem engine: N18B16 (1.6L Turbo) — stay away!
Which MINI MINI Roadster R59 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the MINI MINI Roadster R59 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} 184 hp turbo in the R56 LCI Cooper S — the beating heart of the second MINI generation. Snappy throttle response, razor-sharp turn-in, pure go-kart character.
Is the MINI MINI Roadster R59 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the MINI MINI Roadster R59 — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the MINI MINI Roadster R59? +
The MINI MINI Roadster R59 is available with engine variants from 75 to 218 hp. Petrol: N18B16 (1.6L Turbo), B38A12 (1.2L Turbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee