2011–2012 MINI Countryman: Burning smell from the engine bay (auxiliary water pump recall)
Likely causes, ranked
- Overheating pump circuit board$0–$0Shop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: A burning smell or smoke from the engine bay, sometimes after shutting off.
Likely causes
- Overheating pump circuit board. MINI replaces the pump.
DIY or shop?
Dealer. Recall repairs are free.
Useful steps
- Check your VIN for both recalls.
- Park outside if you smell burning.
Vehicle focus: 2011–2012 MINI Countryman.
Safety / mechanic note
An overheating circuit board can start a fire. Verify with a mechanic or dealer.
Recalls & service bulletins
Recalls
- 12V008000 2011 Cooper S Countryman and other MINIs built through January 2011: the turbo's electric auxiliary water pump circuit board can overheat and smolder. Dealers replace the pump. Details
- 18V248000 2011–2012 models including the Cooper S Countryman: the electric auxiliary water pump may fail and overheat. Dealers replace the pump. Details
NHTSA complaints: 24 keyword-matched complaints for MINI COOPER S COUNTRYMAN 2011–2012 (of 71 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.