OEM Starter Motor for 2012-2020 BMW & Mini • 320i, 328i, Cooper

What to Look For When Buying This Part

• Compatibility with your specific Mini Cooper model and year.
• Condition of the part (if buying used or refurbished).
• Warranty offered by the seller.
• Seller reputation and reviews.

Quality Indicators for the Available Options

What's Typically Included with the Part

• The starter motor assembly itself
• Sometimes includes the solenoid (check the product description)
• Mounting bolts may or may not be included (check the product description)

Difficulty Level and Estimated Time

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Estimated Time: 1-3 hours

Special Tools Needed (If Any)

• Socket set
• Wrench set
• Screwdrivers
• Torque wrench
• Jack and jack stands (for safe access)

Critical Steps and Tips

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable before starting any work.
2. Locate the starter motor (typically near the engine block).
3. Disconnect the electrical connections to the starter motor.
4. Remove the mounting bolts securing the starter motor.
5. Carefully remove the old starter motor.
6. Install the new starter motor, ensuring proper alignment.
7. Tighten the mounting bolts to the specified torque.
8. Reconnect the electrical connections.
9. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

Whether DIY is Recommended or Professional Installation is Better

• DIY is possible for mechanically inclined individuals with experience.
• Professional installation is recommended if you are not comfortable working on your car or lack the necessary tools.

Compare: Used OEM, Refurbished OEM, New Aftermarket

| Option | Pros the starter motor is a critical component for starting the engine. Here's a breakdown of potential issues, what to look for when buying a replacement, and other helpful information.

Warning Signs Your Starter Motor is Failing

• Slow Cranking: The engine turns over slowly, or struggles to start.
• Clicking Sound: A single click or rapid clicking when turning the key.
• No Crank: The engine does not turn over at all.
• Intermittent Starting: The engine starts sometimes, but not others.
• Grinding Noise: A grinding or whirring noise during cranking.

How to Test if This Part is the Problem

1. Check the Battery: Ensure the battery is fully charged and in good condition. A weak battery can cause similar symptoms.
2. Inspect Connections: Check all wiring connections to the starter for corrosion or looseness. Clean and tighten as needed.
3. Listen for the Solenoid: Have someone turn the key to the start position while you listen near the starter. A click indicates the solenoid is engaging. If you only hear a click, the starter motor may be faulty.
4. Voltage Test: Use a multimeter to check for voltage at the starter motor when the key is in the start position. If voltage is present, but the starter doesn't engage, the starter motor is likely the problem.
5. Rule Out Other Issues: Consider other potential causes, such as a faulty ignition switch or a problem with the immobilizer system.

Common Failure Causes for This Part

• Wear and Tear: Normal use over time causes internal components to wear out.
• Corrosion: Moisture and road salt can corrode internal parts.
• Overheating: Excessive heat can damage the starter motor.
• Faulty Solenoid: The solenoid can fail to engage the starter motor.
• Worn Brushes: The brushes inside the starter motor wear down over time.

What to Look For When Buying This Part

• Correct Fit: Verify the part is compatible with your specific Mini Cooper model and year.
• Warranty: Check if the part comes with a warranty.
• Seller Reputation: Buy from a reputable seller with positive reviews.
• Condition (if used): If buying a used part, ensure it has been tested and inspected.

Quality Indicators for the Available Options

What's Typically Included with the Part

• The starter motor assembly.
• Mounting hardware may or may not be included (check the product description).

Difficulty Level and Estimated Time

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

Special Tools Needed (If Any)

• Socket set
• Wrench set
• Screwdrivers
• Torque wrench
• Jack and jack stands (for safe access)
• Wheel chocks

Critical Steps and Tips

1. Disconnect Battery: Always disconnect the negative battery cable before starting any work.
2. Locate Starter: Find the starter motor (usually near the engine block).
3. Disconnect Wires: Carefully disconnect all electrical connections to the starter.
4. Remove Mounting Bolts: Remove the bolts holding the starter in place.
5. Install New Starter: Install the new starter, ensuring proper alignment.
6. Tighten Bolts: Tighten the mounting bolts to the correct torque specification.
7. Reconnect Wires: Reconnect all electrical connections.
8. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery cable.

Whether DIY is Recommended or Professional Installation is Better

• DIY is possible for experienced DIYers.
• Professional installation is recommended if you are not comfortable working on your car or lack the necessary tools.

Compare: Used OEM, Refurbished OEM, New Aftermarket

• Used OEM: Best value for genuine factory parts. These parts are tested and inspected and offered at lower prices.
• Refurbished OEM: Factory parts that have been professionally restored with new components.
• New Aftermarket: Brand new parts made by third-party manufacturers to meet OE specifications.

All of these options can be good choices, depending on your budget and needs.

Parts Commonly Replaced or Checked at the Same Time

• Battery: A weak battery can strain the starter motor.
• Battery Cables: Corroded or loose cables can prevent the starter from receiving enough power.
• Solenoid: The solenoid is often integrated with the starter, but sometimes can be replaced separately.
• Ignition Switch: A faulty ignition switch can prevent the starter from engaging.

Why Replacing Related Parts Prevents Repeat Failures

• Replacing worn or damaged related parts can prevent future problems and extend the life of the new starter motor. For example, a weak battery forces the starter to work harder, shortening its lifespan.

How Long This Part Normally Lasts

• Typical Lifespan: 5-7 years or 75,000-100,000 miles.

Factors That Affect Longevity

• Driving habits (frequent short trips can shorten lifespan).
• Climate (extreme temperatures can affect performance).
• Maintenance (keeping the battery and electrical system in good condition).

Budget vs Mid-Range vs Premium Options

• Used OEM: $50 - $150
• Refurbished OEM: $100 - $250
• New Aftermarket: $80 - $300

Labor Cost Considerations If Applicable

• Professional installation labor costs typically range from $100 - $300, depending on the shop rate and the complexity of the job.

Total Job Cost Estimates

• DIY: $50 - $300 (depending on the part chosen)
• Professional Installation: $150 - $600 (including parts and labor)

Known Issues for This Vehicle's System Related to This Part

• Some Mini Cooper models are known to have issues with oil leaks that can contaminate the starter motor.
• Check for any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the starter motor on your specific model year.

Any TSBs or Common Complaints

• Research online forums and databases for common complaints about starter motor failures on your specific Mini Cooper model.

How to Confirm Proper Operation

• Start the engine several times to ensure it cranks quickly and smoothly.
• Listen for any unusual noises during starting.

What to Look/Listen For to Verify It's Working Correctly

• The engine should start quickly and easily.
• There should be no clicking, grinding, or whirring noises during starting.
• The starter motor should disengage immediately after the engine starts.

Q: How do I know if it's the starter or the battery?
A: A weak battery will usually cause slow cranking, while a faulty starter might cause clicking or no cranking at all. Have your battery tested to rule it out first.

Q: Is it hard to replace the starter on a Mini Cooper?
A: It's an intermediate-level job. It requires some mechanical knowledge and the right tools. If you're not comfortable working on your car, it's best to have a professional do it.

Q: What does OEM mean?
A: OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. It means the part was originally made by the same company that made the part for your car when it was new.

Q: How long will a used starter last?
A: It's hard to say exactly. It depends on how old it is and how well it was maintained. But a tested and inspected used OEM starter can provide good value.

Q: Do I need to replace the solenoid when I replace the starter?
A: The solenoid is usually integrated into the starter motor assembly. So, when you replace the starter, you're also replacing the solenoid.

OEM Part Numbers:

• BMW: 12417649090, 12417649091
• Bosch: 0001170200, 0001170201

Fits Years: 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020