Will Hitch Installation Void Warranty on 2019 Mini Countryman

Updated 07/01/2020 | Published 05/03/2019

Products Featured in This Question

EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"

(6)

$375.64

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(665)

$15.71

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(31)

$264.42

Question:

Hi! My dealer is saying that if I mount this, I am negating my warranty as they have had problems with others mounting bike racks and such to the Mini Countryman that was not intended to pull anything. I would only be putting my bike rack on the car once a month or so and the rack and two bikes weigh less than 100 lbs.... Thoughts? Its the deciding factor as to whether I buy a Mini or not. COUNTRYMAN S ALL4 is what I am considering.. I dont have any other cars that I am interested in at moment.

asked by: Kimberly

Expert Reply:

Vehicle owners are protected when installing aftermarket items on their vehicles by the Federal Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act. This act states, in part, that unless the installation and the part caused a problem then the warranty cannot be voided. I recommend looking it up online. Also, it is not unusual for an auto dealership to discourage use of an aftermarket product that costs less than their dealer-installed option.

We offer two hitches for the 2019 Mini Countryman, as long as it is NOT the John Coooper Works model. They are Curt's 1-1/4-inch model # C11522 and EcoHitch 2-inch model # 306-X7387. Both are no-drill products but both do require a fairly involved installation that is best left to a professional. Pro install time will be about 2 hours; for a DIY install figure on 3 hours.

With either hitch installed I strongly recommend using a support strap # 18050 or a similar items to help steady the bike rack in the hitch. This will reduce some of the stresses on the car. Curt requires its use with their hitch # C11522 but it is still a good idea for any hitch on a very lightweight vehicle.

expert reply by: Adam R

Dave P.

6/27/2020

Do you sell a Class II hitch for a 2019 MINI Countryman?

Chris R.

7/1/2020

The above-mentioned Curt 1-1/4" # C11522 and EcoHitch 2" # 306-X7387 are the only trailer hitches we have available for your MINI Countryman. Both are Class I models in terms of capacity, but the EcoHitch does give you the larger 2" receiver that opens the door for a lot more accessory options.