2017-2022 · 2.0 turbocharged B48 petrol (192 hp) · AWD
Practical premium compact SUV sharing BMW X1 platform and drivetrain. The F60 generation is significantly more reliable than the problematic R60 predecessor. Built on the same UKL platform as the BMW X1 F48, it benefits from BMW's improved B48 engine which fixed most timing chain issues from earlier engines. Main concerns: engine mount failures by 50,000-70,000 km, 8-speed automatic transmission software issues at higher mileage, and typical BMW cooling system plastic component failures. The all-wheel-drive ALL4 system adds complexity versus FWD models. Shares parts with BMW but carries premium pricing at dealerships.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€900 - €1,450/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€550-850
Risk buffer
€350-600
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
Engine mount failure€500 - €1,500
Upper and lower mounts fail prematurely, causing vibration and clunking · more· less
The F60 Countryman suffers from early engine mount failures, a common issue across F-series Minis. Upper engine mounts typically fail between 50,000-70,000 km, though some last only 30,000 miles. Symptoms include excessive engine movement, vibrations at idle, and clunking when shifting into drive or reverse. Lower mounts wear out at higher mileages. Dealer quotes run €1,200-1,500, but independent BMW/Mini specialists can do the upper mount for €500-700. The mount itself costs around €200, with most cost being labor.
Software glitches and mechanical clutch wear at 120,000-150,000 km · more· less
The Aisin 8-speed automatic is generally reliable when driven normally, but exhibits rough 1-2 upshifts under heavy throttle. Software problems and mechanical clutch wear become more common above 120,000 km. Some owners report transmission oil service warnings at low mileage (around 60,000 km). BMW calls it "sealed for life" but preventative oil changes can extend longevity. Mechatronics unit failures cost €1,500-2,500 at dealers. Full transmission replacement can reach €3,000-3,500. Software updates may resolve minor issues.
Water pump and thermostat housing failure€800 - €1,400
Electric water pump fails, plastic housing cracks between 80,000-120,000 km · more· less
The B48 engine uses an electric water pump integrated with a plastic thermostat housing. Both are known failure points on all BMWs and Minis. The plastic housing becomes brittle and cracks, while the electric pump fails suddenly, both causing coolant leaks and overheating. Typical failure occurs between 80,000-120,000 km. The plastic link pipe between thermostat housing and water pump also commonly fails. Best practice is to replace both components together with genuine parts—aftermarket versions fail quickly. Cost at dealer: €1,100-1,400; independent specialist: €800-1,000.
Turbo actuator sticking€500 - €4,000
Wastegate actuator sticks from short trips, causing limp mode and EPC light · more· less
The turbo wastegate actuator tends to stick if the car is only driven gently or for short trips, as carbon builds up. Results in EPC warning light and limp mode. The actuator cannot be purchased separately—you must replace the entire turbocharger. Actuator-only repair at specialist: €500-600. If turbo internals are damaged, full OEM turbo replacement costs €1,200-1,600 for parts alone, with dealer install running €3,500-4,000 total. Using premium fuel and occasional spirited driving helps prevent carbon buildup.
Valve cover gasket leak€600 - €1,000
Gasket degrades, causing oil leaks typically after 100,000 km · more· less
The valve cover gasket on the B48 engine typically lasts 70,000-100,000 km before developing leaks. The gasket itself costs only €30-50, but labor is extensive because you must remove the valve cover, ignition coils, injectors, and multiple electrical connections. Many mechanics remove the entire intake manifold for easier access. At dealer: €900-1,000. Independent BMW/Mini specialist: €600-750. If neglected, oil starvation can cause serious engine damage.
VANOS solenoid failure€300 - €600
Variable valve timing solenoids clog at 80,000-100,000 km · more· less
VANOS solenoids commonly become clogged with oil sludge and debris around 80,000-100,000 km. Symptoms include rough idle, check engine light, loss of power, and possible misfires. Two solenoids cost around €100-150 each (use Febi or Pierburg brands). Labor is minimal—approximately 30 minutes. Total cost at independent specialist: €300-400. Dealers may charge €500-600. Extended oil change intervals contribute to this issue—regular maintenance with quality oil helps prevent clogging.
Air conditioning compressor failure€900 - €2,000
AC loses cooling capacity after 60,000-80,000 km · more· less
A common problem across Mini Countryman models is premature air conditioning failure. The compressor typically fails between 60,000-80,000 km. Dealer compressor replacement: €1,800-2,000. Independent shop: €900-1,400. The F60 also has a known issue with a blocked condensate drain hose causing musty odor and damp front footwell carpet—this is a simple fix. AC condenser replacement costs €900-1,000 if the condenser itself fails.
12V battery drain and failure€200 - €450
AGM batteries fail around 5-6 years, must be coded to vehicle · more· less
The F60 uses an AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) battery that typically lasts 5-6 years. Modern electronics draw significant power even when off, causing faster battery drain. When replacing, the battery MUST be coded and registered to the car's computer so it charges appropriately and adjusts for battery aging—skipping this shortens battery life. The battery is buried under plastic covers, increasing labor complexity. Battery cost: €150-250. Dealer installation with coding: €350-450. Independent specialist: €250-350.
Suspension control arm bushings€450 - €600
Front control arm bushings wear out by 100,000-120,000 km · more· less
Control arm bushings typically last 100,000-120,000 km but wear faster with aggressive driving or rough roads. Symptoms include squeaking over bumps, knocking sounds, uneven tire wear, and wandering steering. Most shops replace the entire control arm rather than just pressing in new bushings. Dealer: €500-600 per side. Independent shop: €350-450 per side. Ball joints and tie rod ends are often replaced simultaneously. Wheel alignment required after replacement.
Infotainment system glitches€0 - €1,200
Touchscreen freezes, CarPlay connection unreliable · more· less
The infotainment system can be glitchy, with unresponsive touchscreen, freezing display, and inconsistent CarPlay connectivity. Often resolved by software updates (free at dealer) or hard reset. In persistent cases, the head unit NBT EVO may need replacement (€1,000-1,200). CarPlay issues are common when multiple iPhones are paired. Some electrical gremlins include intermittent window switches, boot opening mechanism failures, and heated seat malfunctions—usually fuse or control module issues costing €150-400 to repair.
More reliable than predecessors, but premium parts pricing
The F60 Countryman represents a significant reliability improvement over the problematic R60 generation. Sharing the BMW X1 platform and B48 engine means most issues are well-documented BMW problems rather than Mini-specific faults. Engine mounts and cooling system components are the most common concerns. The 8-speed automatic is generally solid, unlike the troublesome dual-clutch transmissions in other Minis. Preventative maintenance is critical—extended BMW service intervals can contribute to premature failures.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete BMW/Mini dealer or authorized specialist records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (every 15,000 km maximum).
Tires
Check tread depth, age (225/45R19 or 225/50R18), and uneven wear patterns indicating alignment or suspension issues.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual sounds, rattles, or rough idle.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. Inspect C-pillar panels for popping sounds (common but cosmetic).
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including varied speeds and highway driving to get transmission fully warmed up.
Specific for this vehicle
Check for engine mount vibration
Start cold and feel for excessive vibration at idle. Shift into drive/reverse and listen for clunking—indicates worn engine mounts.
Inspect cooling system for leaks
Check coolant level and condition. Look for leaks around thermostat housing, water pump, and plastic pipes. Brown or milky coolant indicates problems.
Test 8-speed transmission thoroughly
Drive for 20+ minutes to warm transmission. Feel for jerky shifts (especially 1-2 upshift), hesitation, or rough engagement into Drive. Check for drivetrain warning messages.
Verify crankshaft sensor recall completed (2018 models)
Cars built May-June 2018 affected. Contact Mini dealer with VIN to verify recall completion.
Check for EPC warning light
During test drive, watch for EPC light with loss of power—indicates turbo actuator issues.
Test air conditioning performance
AC should blow cold within 1-2 minutes. Musty smell or damp footwell carpet indicates blocked drain hose.
Inspect ALL4 system operation
Test on slippery surface if possible. Check for grinding noises from rear differential. Verify transfer case oil has been changed.
Check infotainment and electrical systems
Test touchscreen responsiveness, CarPlay connectivity, heated seats, all window switches, boot release, sunroof operation.
Listen for suspension noises
Drive over bumps—squeaking or knocking indicates worn control arm bushings or ball joints.
Front suspension tie rod assembly (March-April 2019)Verify completed
Front suspension swivel bearing fracture (April-May 2018)Verify completed
Tail light mounting brackets cracked (various 2018-2019)Check if affected
Vehicle unlock issue with remote (2019 models)TSB available
Contact a Mini dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls and technical service bulletins have been completed. The crankshaft sensor recall (2018) is particularly important as it can cause engine stalling.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (4 years / 80,000 km)Expired on 2017-2018 models
Complimentary maintenance (3 years / 50,000 km)Expired on most used F60s
Extended warranty optionsAvailable from Mini or third parties
Most used F60 Countryman Cooper S ALL4 models from 2017-2022 are outside their original factory warranty. Mini offers extended warranty programs (Platinum and Powertrain levels) for additional coverage. Third-party extended warranties are also available. Given the premium cost of BMW/Mini parts and labor, extended warranty coverage may be worthwhile for higher-mileage examples or if you lack access to an independent BMW/Mini specialist.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.