Mini Cooper Shifting Display
Asked by JennDB Jan 11, 2019 at 12:31 PM about the 2012 MINI Cooper Base
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
Last week I noticed in my shift display that it was
changing from D to DS randomly, without moving
the stick. Now this week, if I move the stick to the
left into manual mode, nothing happens. And
today as I’m driving it’s back in DS. Still unable to
get into manual shift mode. What the heck?
Transmission seems fine and car is running great,
no other issues or symptoms.
17 Answers
I am experiencing the same issue here! It goes randomly from d to ds mode without touching the shifter. And many times when it is stuck in d mode I cannot engage the manual shift mode...everything is running totally fine. I suspect it is a wiring thing some wires may be broken now but I wasn’t able to identify any.
I am having a similar issue on my R56 model. My shop says a microchip had malfunctioned into shifter which may result in having to replace the entire shifter. What was the outcome on your vehicle? Did it stop or did you need some type of repair?
Exactly the same problem - did you sort it?
Problem solved. Just replace the shifter indicator assembly (the part costs about 50USD but don't go to the dealer). It is the indicator light that is causing this problem. I fixed my mini.
Hi many thanks for that info. I'm in the U.K but I'm sure it will be similar price etc. I will get my trusty mechanic (my nephew) to sort this out for me with the help of your info.! Great
here is the link to the shifter indicator assembly---you will need to remove the shifter, remove the wires, and replace the indicator assembly, a quick 5-minute fix! https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-mini-parts/selector-lever-boot-chrome- tirm/25162752946/
I disconnected battery for a few minutes, everything back to normal.
Replacing the assembly didn't work for me. I even bought a new one and tested it. Has anyone else had any luck in solving this issue?
I disconnected battery for a few minutes and everything started working normal. Been a couple months now, no problems.
FranSullivan answered 4 years ago
I’m now experiencing the same thing with trans randomly changing from D to DS, etc. Using sport mode button seem to be effective for the moment on my 2012 Mini Cooper. I may try disconnecting battery. Then Next step may be contacting pvt repair shop, sharing info in above chat responses.
MiniCooperMiller answered 4 years ago
My 2013 Mini Cooper started doing the same (switching from D to DS without any intervention). Has disconnecting the battery worked for others who have tried?
Guru9WQGRR answered 3 years ago
Same problem on our 2012 Mini Convertible. I shifts to DS from D on occasion, not all the time. I disconnected the battery and it did not help. What is the part number for the indicator assembly that I need to replace? Please help! Thanks Tim
Guru9WQGRR answered 3 years ago
Same problem on our 2012 Mini Convertible. It shifts to DS from D on occasion, not all the time. I disconnected the battery and it did not help. What is the part number for the indicator assembly that I need to replace? Please help! Thanks Tim
Guru91DMRX answered 2 years ago
same problem 2012 Mini changing D to DS randomly. I disconnected battery didn't help! So I disconnected indicator assembly (not sure what its called) can I drive the car with this disconnected until I get the part? I have been and no problem.
Can anyone please confirm changing the selector lever boot (25162752946) actually addresses the problem?
Ok. I fixed mine by changing out the battery. Old battery does not have reserve and occasionally drops to 9V even when engine is running (because AC fan is ok, power steering is electrical, and many other loads even when alternator is running. The TCM does not like 9V and the first module to act weird. U can watch your voltage with one of those USB charging adapter with voltage reading. In my case, it is not shifter, not the PRND assembly, not the wiring connection to TCM, it is just the battery. Remember to register your battery and ideally buy the same AH and type (lead acid or AGM) that your car is set up for.