P0116 on MINI
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance
P0116 on MINI vehicles indicates engine coolant temperature sensor 1 circuit range/performance. Au7o has documented this code across 1 MINI model — most commonly on Clubman. P0116 means the engine control module detected an engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor reading that is within wiring limits but doesn't make sense — for example, it doesn't rise as the engine warms up, or it disagrees with other temperature data. The ECT sensor reports coolant temperature, which the computer uses for fuel mixture, ignition timing, cooling-fan control, and emissions monitors. An implausible reading can cause poor fuel economy, hard cold starts, or failed emissions readiness. It is generally drivable but should be fixed for proper engine management. Typical repair costs on MINI range from $600 to $1,400, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0116
- •Faulty or drifting engine coolant temperature sensor
- •Stuck-open thermostat (engine never reaches normal temp)
- •Low coolant level or air in the cooling system
- •Wiring or connector resistance affecting the signal
- •Sensor reading inconsistent with intake-air temperature at cold start
- •Corroded sensor connector
- •PCM fault (less common)
P0116 on MINI by Model
MINI Clubman(1 issue)
- Water Pump and Thermostat Housing Failure Leading to Overheating and Engine Loss (R55)2008-2014
The R55's Prince-engine water pump and its plastic thermostat housing are a known wear pair. The pump assembly and the plastic housing crack or seize, and because the temperature warning behaviour is easy to misread, owners repeatedly report going from 'temperature light flickered' to a melted thermostat and a destroyed engine within a few miles. Multiple NHTSA complaints on 2009-2010 Clubmans describe overheating with black smoke, stalling on the highway, and total engine failure after the pump or thermostat let go. CarComplaints lists overheating as the top-reported problem for the 2009 Cooper Clubman.
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View P0116 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0116 mean on MINI?▼
P0116 stands for "Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance." P0116 means the engine control module detected an engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor reading that is within wiring limits but doesn't make sense — for example, it doesn't rise as the engine warms up, or it disagrees with other temperature data. The ECT sensor reports coolant temperature, which the computer uses for fuel mixture, ignition timing, cooling-fan control, and emissions monitors. An implausible reading can cause poor fuel economy, hard cold starts, or failed emissions readiness. It is generally drivable but should be fixed for proper engine management. On MINI specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0116 on MINI vehicles?▼
Common causes on MINI: Faulty or drifting engine coolant temperature sensor, Stuck-open thermostat (engine never reaches normal temp), Low coolant level or air in the cooling system, Wiring or connector resistance affecting the signal, Sensor reading inconsistent with intake-air temperature at cold start. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0116 on a MINI?▼
Repair costs on MINI range from $600 to $1,400, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which MINI models have P0116 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0116 on 1 MINI model: Clubman.