Home/WMZYT3C36J3E93817
VIN REPORT

WMZYT3C36J3E938172018 MINI Countryman

Risk Score
26
MODERATE RISK
out of 100
2 Found
2 campaigns
11
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
8 yrs
Made in NETHERLANDS
C
Score: 74/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2018 MINI Countryman was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 11 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.

  • 2 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
26/100
Moderate Risk
2 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 2 detected
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
2 model-wide recalls on record
+6
Critical Alerts

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
MINI
Model
Countryman
Year
2018
Trim / Series
Cooper S
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 2L 189 hp
Doors
4
Manufacturer
BMW AG
Assembly
BOM, NETHERLANDS
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Base MSRP
$30,900
CQuality55/100
Standard📍 BOM, NETHERLANDS

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety
C
Score: 74/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety24/30
Complaint History30/30
20/100Moderate
  • Fuel system recall
51/100
Advanced
11 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Pedestrian AEB
Low
  • 1 fuel system recall(s) — potential ignition risk
Moderate
  • Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.

Forward Collision Warning~Optional
Automatic Emergency Braking~Optional
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control~Optional
Adaptive Headlights~Optional
Auto High BeamStandard
Parking Assist~Optional
Backup CameraStandard
Electronic Stability ControlStandard
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake SupportStandard
Keyless IgnitionStandard
Recalls
70/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 3 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~96,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
DUE SOONCriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 120,000 mi · Est. ~96,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Timing Chain Tensioner service before 120,000 mi
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 8 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 8 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 8 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 8 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
DUE SOONModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 120,000 mi · Est. ~96,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Fuel Injectors service before 120,000 mi
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
22 RECALLS

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 2 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 2 recalls is ~69%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

69%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

MINI Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
91%Good

MINI completes recalls at a good rate (91%), averaging about 16 months to remedy. Most affected vehicles are fixed.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~16 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
16mo
#18V557000
Invalid Date

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

SummaryBMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2017-2019 MINI Cooper Countryman vehicles. These vehicles may be missing a crash protection plate near the high pressure fuel pump, which may result in a fuel leak in the event of a crash.
Read full details...
ConsequenceWithout the crash protection plate, in the event of a crash, the fuel pump can become damaged, causing a fuel leak and increasing the risk of a fire.
Est. Repair Completion~74%

~26% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#17E051000
Invalid Date

TRAILER HITCHES

SummaryCurt Manufacturing LLC (Curt) is recalling certain Class 1 trailer hitches, part number 11451, sold for installation on 2016-2018 Mini Cooper Clubman and Countryman vehicles. The vehicles may have inadequate structure points for the trailer hitch mounting, causing the hitch to sag under to certain loads and possibly separate from the vehicle.
Read full details...
ConsequenceIf the trailer hitch sags or separates from the vehicle, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

17/09/2017
2 total campaigns
Fuel System
2
Part Replacements
0
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
Complaints
Steering
3
Other
3
Brakes
2
Electrical
2
Engine/Powertrain
1
2018
1
2019
3
2020
1
2021
2
2023
1
2024
1
2025
1
2026
1
38% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Stable 0%
2
Last 24 months
2
Prior 24 months
PEAKS WINTER (DEC–FEB)

36% of complaints filed in Jan & Mar — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Electrical failure2
Brake failure1
Engine stalling1
Conditions Reported
Startup (1)Highway/high-speed (1)Parking/low-speed (1)
11HIGH VOLUME
ODI #11728346STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2018 Mini Cooper Countryman. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. The contact stated that the steering wheel was excessively difficult to turn. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with ECM failure. The contact was informed that the ECM needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact was advised that the failure was a known failure with the vehicle while using the Click and Drive device. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 19,000.

ODI #11634488STEERING

While driving, the steering wheel gets stuck and very hard to maneuver. I have seen a recall for this car but when i entered by VIN, it was not included on the recall. The problem had happened several times. There was a time when everything was working fine, turned off the engine to put gas and when i turned it on to drive, i had a hard time steering. I had to park for a long time (since i was at Costco decided to come inside the store), when i turned on engine, it was gone and working properly like the problem did not happened at all. There were still times that when i turned it off for a little bit to pick up something from a restaurant, when i come back, the steering wheel looks like it was stuck and unable to make left or right turns. It does not happen only when car is turned on and off, it also happens while driving. When i was in a roundabout, steering wheel also has locked/got stuck. I have had our mechanic check this issues twice but he could not find any problem.

ODI #11589841ENGINE

My engine malfunctioned after the module under the back seat was wet from an unknown water leak in the vehicle. My vehicle lost power without warning until I came to a complete stop on the side of a very busy highway. I'm not sure if the repair center kept the faulty module or not I would have to check. I know leaks have been a problem with my model in previous years but when I checked my VIN there were no recalls. This is a very dangerous defect and should be fixed.

ODI #11501422FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Fuel sensor failed and due to tank pressure that would not release properly, according to repair shop. Among other safety issues, this caused me to not be able to open the gas tank to refill the gas tank. This has been ongoing. At first the gas flap was repaired (2x) and ultimately the fuel sensor was entirely replaced at my cost. All repairs were done at New Country Mini in Hartford, CT. The repair shop should provide history of repairs over the several years as Mini is denying the seriousness of the defect. I’ve notified mini.

ODI #11436356SERVICE BRAKES

•What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? I had brake caliper repaired on front right wheel, on 5/5/20. Had to have service on same brake caliper on 10/5/21 - revealed caliper froze causing excessive bakes wear. •How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Potential of brake failure. •Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. Dealer repaired work- Passport Mini of Montgomery County, 820 Russell Ave, Gaithersburg, MD, 20879 •Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Unknown •Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No

ODI #11432572STEERING

Steering is becoming stiffer. Seems like there is new or added restistance when turning the steering wheel while the vehicle is going slower.

ODI #11330368ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

I WAS PULLING INTO SHOPPING CENTER ALL DASHBOARD LIGHT UP WARNINGS ETC. STARTED TO HEAD HOME BECAUSE OF PRIOR INCIDENT WITH COMPUTER FAILURE. CAR STOPPED MID INTERSECTION AND WENT DEAD. PUT IT IN PARK RESTARTED AND DROVE HOME. HEADLIGHTS AND ELECTRICAL ENGINE WOULD NOT SHUT OFF. CALLED SERVICE TO TOW TO DEALERSHIP REPAIR. TOW TRUCK DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO TURN OF LIGHTS, NO LUCK. CAR REPAIRED AT DEALERSHIP, WAS TOLD AT THAT POINT OF A POSSIBLE RECALL, BUT THEY DIDN'T KNOW OF WHAT. CAR REPAIRED. AS SOON A LEASE IS UP IT IS GONE! *TR

ODI #11234632ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

VEHICLE'S SWITCH CONTROLLING HEADLIGHTS WAS LEFT IN THE "PARKING LIGHTS ON" MODE INADVERTENTLY (IT OPENED TERMINAL 15 PER MINI). CAR WOULD NOT START LESS THAN 12 HOURS LATER. MINI REPORTS THAT THIS "DAMAGED THE BATTERY BEYOND REPAIR" AND SAID IT WAS NOT SUBJECT TO WARRANTY REPLACEMENT BECAUSE THE USER HAD OPERATED THE SWITCH. IF THIS HAPPENED FOR MANY MINI OWNERS, PEOPLE WOULD BE STRANDED AND LEFT IN A DANGEROUS CONDITION. FURTHERMORE, THIS IS CLEARLY SOMETHING MINI IS CHOOSING TO IGNORE AND CLASSIFY AS USER ERROR WHEN IT IS A DEFECT. MINI CHARGED $600+ PLUS DOLLARS TO REPLACE THE BATTERY, REPROGRAM THE VEHICLE AND PHYSICALLY INSTALL THE NEW BATTERY. THE DEALER REP SAID HE HAS PERSONALLY SEEN 6 OTHER VEHICLES THIS YEAR ALONE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM.

ODI #11197349SERVICE BRAKES

WHEN STOPPED THE BRAKE PEDAL SLOWLY GOES TO THE FLOORBOARDS. SOMETIMES I HAVE TO REPEATEDLY PUMP THE BRAKE PEDAL WHILE AT A STOP LIGHT TO PREVENT RUNNING INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. TOOK IT TO A DEALERSHIP AND THEY DROVE THE CAR BUT COULDN'T FINE ANY PROBLEMS. THE MASTER CYLINDER LEAK DOWN IS GETTING PROGRESSIVELY WORSE WITH TIME. I BELIEVE THAT I AM QUALIFIED TO WRITE ABOUT THIS AS I WAS, WHEN YOUNGER, A TOP MECHANIC FOR PORSCHE AND VOLKSWAGEN.

ODI #11184906UNKNOWN OR OTHER

THE VIN [XXX] IS NOT RECOGNIZED ON NHTSA OR SAFECAR WEBSITE. MANUFACTURER AND DEALERSHIP HAVE MY OLD ADDRESS (NOT PROVIDED BY MYSELF) IN THEIR SYSTEM. GENERAL HELPLINE REPRESENTATIVES TOLD ME TO CONTACT MANUFACTURER. MANUFACTURER REFERRED ME TO DEALERSHIP. I CALLED YOUR GENERAL NUMBER AGAIN LAST WEEK AND THE WOMAN DISPARAGED ME AND LAUGHED AT ME. NO ONE WILL HELP ME FIX THIS SAFETY (COMMUNICATION) CONCERN. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

ODI #11145171UNKNOWN OR OTHER

CAR PULLS TO THE RIGHT AND IS WOBBLY WHILE IN MOTION, ESPECIALLY MORE UNSTABLE IN WET CONDITIONS AND MINI COOPER SAYS IT IS AN UNEVEN TORQUE ISSUE RELATED TO THE ELECTRICAL/GAS ENGINE AND CANNOT BE FIXED. I HAVE DRIVEN THE CAR FOR 11 MONTHS AND THEY STILL HAVEN'T REPLACED THE VEHICLE WITH A SAFER VEHICLE OR EVEN TALKED WITH ME ABOUT WHAT THEY ARE WILLING TO DO TO CORRECT THE DEFECT. THE DEALERSHIP AND BMW HAVE IGNORED ME AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO RESOLVE THE MATTER.

HighFUEL PUMP issue detected

Engine stalling at speed — fuel delivery failure can cause sudden loss of power in traffic or on highways

Annual complaints and reliability score for MINI Countryman — recall years marked in red
023050100201820192020202120222023202420252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 11 NHTSA complaints on file for the MINI Countryman — a relatively low volume that spans from 2018 to 2026.

The amber reliability line shows an improving trend — scores have risen from the earlier years toward 95/100 more recently, suggesting the most serious issues are older and may have been addressed through repairs or recalls.

Notably, despite 11 complaints on file, no recall has been issued — either the defect pattern has not met NHTSA's threshold for a formal campaign, or a recall may be forthcoming.

Details & Analysis
Financial
$0
Annual Fuel
EPA estimate
$1,800
Annual Insurance
US average
$1,800
Annual Maintenance
8-yr-old vehicle avg
$625
Annual Depreciation
Current period
Estimated 5-Year Total Cost
Fuel + Insurance + Maintenance + Depreciation
$21,125

Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

$39,239
~$654/mo over 5 yrs
$0.4/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$15,500
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$3,239

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $39,239 (~$654/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

$8,000
Low
$9,500
Est. Value
$11,000
High

Based on original MSRP of $30,900 with suv depreciation curve. Range reflects ±15% market variance. Actual value depends on condition, options, and local demand.

2 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,000
Total recommended deduction−$1,000
Suggested fair offer: ~$8,500
HIGH
Inspect for fuel pump issue detected — ask for repair records
Engine stalling at speed — fuel delivery failure can cause sudden loss of power in traffic or on highways
HIGH
Verify recall FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP has been repaired
Recall on record for: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2017-2019 MINI Cooper Countryman vehicles. These vehicles may be m
HIGH
Verify recall TRAILER HITCHES has been repaired
Recall on record for: Curt Manufacturing LLC (Curt) is recalling certain Class 1 trailer hitches, part number 11451, sold for installation on
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: STEERING
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$1,650–$2,090/yr
~$138–$174/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
8-year-old vehicle: −7% (moderate depreciation)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VINWMZYT3C36J3E93817
Model Year2018
MakeMINI
ModelCountryman
SeriesCooper S
Vehicle TypeMULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Doors4
Seat Rows5
Drive TypeFWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeGasoline

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)2
Horsepower189

Manufacturer

ManufacturerBMW AG
Assembly CityBOM
Assembly CountryNETHERLANDS

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)WMZ
Check Digit (Char 9)6
Model Year Code (Char 10)J
Plant Code (Char 11)3
Sequence (Chars 12–17)E93817

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count2
NHTSA Complaint Count11
W
1
M
2
Z
3
Y
4
T
5
3
6
C
7
3
8
6
9
J
10
3
11
E
12
9
13
3
14
8
15
1
16
7
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
W
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
M
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
Z
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
YT3C3
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
6
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
J
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
3
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
E93817
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Germany
From VIN position 1 (W)
Model Year Character
"J" → 2018
Could also be 1988
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 5/24/2026, 12:21:29 AM.