Feds Probe Mini Cooper S After Complaints of Engine Compartment Fires

Just the Facts:

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating an estimated 36,000 2007-'08 Mini Cooper S cars after 12 complaints of engine compartment fires.
• NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation said five of the complaints allege "engulfing fires resulting in a total vehicle loss."
• "The complaints show an apparent increasing trend," reported the federal safety agency.

WASHINGTON — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating an estimated 36,000 2007-'08 Mini Cooper S vehicles after 12 complaints of engine compartment fires.

Affected vehicles include the 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman S, 2007-'08 Mini Cooper S, and 2007-'08 Mini Cooper S Convertible.

NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation said five of the complaints allege "engulfing fires resulting in a total vehicle loss," in the summary of the probe posted on its Web site. NHTSA also said eight complaints alleged fires had occurred while the cars were parked with the ignition off.

"The complaints show an apparent increasing trend, with most complaints received within the past year," NHTSA said.

There have been no injuries or fatalities linked to the complaints.

NHTSA also reported that it has "reviewed field reports (from Mini) submitted as part of Early Warning Report data that relate to the alleged defect."

Such a probe is sometimes the precursor to a recall.

Mini USA told Inside Line it is investigating the alleged defect and cooperating with the investigation.

Inside Line says: If you own a 2007-'08 Mini Cooper S, be aware that a federal investigation is underway.