Mini Countryman years to avoid MINI Countryman (F60) (10.2016 - ...)

Avoid early first generation Mini Countryman models (approximately 2010-2016) with 2.0D (N47) diesel engines as they are known to have timing chain issues, and early petrol versions (e.g. 2012) which can have engine and Check Engine light issues that can require expensive repairs. In general, post-2017 first generation and second generation Countryman models are considered more reliable.
Models to avoid:
First generation Mini Countryman diesel models (approximately 2010-2016) with 2.0D (N47) engine:
Problem: Frequent timing chain failures which can cause serious engine damage including valves and camshaft.
Symptoms: Chain stretching or breaking, engine noise, subsequent damage to engine components.
Early petrol Mini Countryman (e.g. 2012):
Problem: Potential engine problems such as fuel injection or valve problems, or the Check Engine light coming on.

Symptoms: Flashing Check Engine light, engine rough running.

What to look for:
Later models:
First generation Mini Countryman (produced after 2017) and second generation models are generally considered more reliable.

Thorough diagnostics:
Before buying a used Mini Countryman, be sure to have a full engine and transmission diagnostic to identify potential problems.

Service history:
Check the vehicle's service history. Regular and quality maintenance can help avoid many problems.

Avoid early first generation Mini Countryman models (approximately 2010-2016) with 2.0D (N47) diesel engines as they are known to have timing chain issues, and early petrol versions (e.g. 2012) which can have engine and Check Engine light issues that can require expensive repairs. In general, post-2017 first generation and second generation Countryman models are considered more reliable.
Models to avoid:
First generation Mini Countryman diesel models (approximately 2010-2016) with 2.0D (N47) engine:
Problem: Frequent timing chain failures which can cause serious engine damage including valves and camshaft.
Symptoms: Chain stretching or breaking, engine noise, subsequent damage to engine components.
Early petrol Mini Countryman (e.g. 2012):
Problem: Potential engine problems such as fuel injection or valve problems, or the Check Engine light coming on.

Symptoms: Flashing Check Engine light, engine rough running.

What to look for:
Later models:
First generation Mini Countryman (produced after 2017) and second generation models are generally considered more reliable.

Thorough diagnostics:
Before buying a used Mini Countryman, be sure to have a full engine and transmission diagnostic to identify potential problems.

Service history:
Check the vehicle's service history. Regular and quality maintenance can help avoid many problems.