MINI Cabrio III (F57) (2015 – 2023)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The third-generation MINI Convertible (code name F57) marks a major technological break with its predecessor (R57). Based on BMW's modular UKL platform, it abandons the capricious 'Prince' engines (PSA/BMW) in favor of the modular B-family blocks (B37/B47 for diesel, B38/B48 for gasoline). Although demand for diesel convertibles has become anecdotal (leading to their withdrawal from the catalog around 2019), the Cooper D and Cooper SD versions appealed to high-mileage drivers thanks to frugal consumption and generous torque. The model benefited from two facelifts (LCI in 2018 with 'Union Jack' lights, and LCI 2 in 2021). Overall, the F57 is a very accomplished premium vehicle, whose reliability has made a giant leap compared to previous generations, despite some peripheral weaknesses (engi

✅ Strengths

Mechanical reliability greatly improved (BMW B-Series engines) compared to the R57 generation
Interior finish quality worthy of the premium segment
'Go-kart' handling preserved despite the weight
Ridiculously low fuel consumption of diesel versions (Cooper D / SD)
Electric soft top with very practical 'sunroof' function

⚠️ Weaknesses

Diesel sound and odors not very compatible with the convertible spirit
Recurring EGR cooler problems on diesels (B37/B47)
Premature wear of engine mounts (a common issue on UKL platforms)
Almost zero rear visibility when the soft top is folded
Symbolic trunk volume (160 to 215 liters) and difficult access

🎯 Verdict

The MINI Convertible F57 is undoubtedly the most reliable generation ever produced. If you specifically target a diesel (Cooper D or SD), you will benefit from exceptional range and very pleasant torque. However, buying a used diesel requires absolute vigilance regarding the history of the EGR cooler (BMW recall) and necessitates regular road use to avoid DPF clogging. For purely 'pleasure' or urban use, the gasoline engines (Cooper or Cooper S) are infinitely more relevant, more reliable for short trips, and offer a sound much more in line with open-top driving.

Common issues

Encrassement du filtre à particules (FAP/DPF) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 2 500 € (selon nettoyage ou remplacement)

Privilégier les longs trajets réguliers pour permettre la régénération du FAP.

Dysfonctionnement de la vanne EGR (encrassement ou défaillance) Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 200 – 1 000 € (selon nettoyage ou remplacement)

Faire contrôler la vanne EGR lors des entretiens, surtout en usage urbain fréquent.

Usure prématurée des silentblocs et rotules de suspension Medium

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 350 – 700 € par essieu

Faire vérifier le train roulant régulièrement, surtout sur routes dégradées.

Problèmes de capteurs moteur (ex: capteur de pression différentielle FAP, capteur NOx) Low

🔧 90 000 – 160 000 km

💶 200 – 500 €

Ne pas ignorer les voyants moteur, un diagnostic rapide peut éviter des pannes plus graves.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£80 – 150
Clutch	£850 – 1 500
Complete brakes	£300 – 600
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.