The light bulb warning light comes on every time I start my 2012 Mini Cooper Base Model Hatchback. Originally I found a burned out license plate light and replaced it, but the light bulb warning light continued to come on. I drove it for a month or so this way to see if it would reset itself. It didn’t.

Today I checked all the outside lights again and found out the red section between the two reverse lights in the center of the rear bumper never comes on. I inspected the bulb and it looks good, but I will swap one of the reverse light bulbs with it to see if it is the bulb or something else.

Q1: What triggers the center red light between the reverse lights? Is it a brake light or simple running light?

When I finished I noticed the “P” for PARK light on the automatic shifter stays on once I’ve parked, turned the car off and locked it. I never noticed that before.

Q2: Is the “P” for PARK light supposed to be on after the car is off and locked?

Last question…

Q3: Will the light bulb warning light reset itself once I solve the bulb problems or do I have to do it manually?

Thanks for your help.

 

Q2: yes the "P" illuminates occasionally with the key removed. This is normal.

Q3: the light bulb warning light will reset automatically.

 

Yes, as said above it is normal for the P light to stay illuminated after the car is off for a little. Info HERE.

 

Okay, thanks for the heads up on the "P" PARK automatic shifter light. I've owned this Cooper since new and never noticed it until trying to trouble shoot the exterior light warning indicator. Checking it now after sitting overnight it is out.

Anyone know the answer to question Q1?

I just checked my neighbors 2013 red light between the two reverse lights on the exact same model as mine, and we couldn't get the running lights or the brake lights to light it up, yet her light out warning indicator isn't lit (?).

What the heck is that center red light in the bumper for?

 

Okay, the search was my friend tonight... I found THIS POST that states the red light(s) are rear fog lights. I don't have that option.

So that leaves me with the light out warning indicator light in the dash still coming on when I start the car, but none of the exterior lights are burned out.

Is this warning light the same for interior lights? I seem to remember the manual having a different indicator for interior lights, but I'm not sure (car is not close by currently).

Any suggestions?

 

Did you happen to install LED bulbs recently? The dealer or independent MINI shop can use a scan tool and tell right away which is causing the code.

 

No LED's, it's all stock.

I've been meaning to get it over to John at Mini Worx for a brake fluid change. I'll have them check it when they reset the maintenance light.

Thanks again for everyones help.

 

If you get the Carly app and Bluetooth adapter it might be able to pinpoint which bulb is out, at least I know it allows you to disable the bulb check for specific bulbs which is helpful if you install LEDs. Plus it lets you change lots of other hidden features of the car.

I bet you're overlooking a bulb... Headlights, taillights, front and rear turn signals (hazards), reverse light, parking lights, front fog lights, third eye brake light, corner marker lights (they're built into the fender flares in my R55). I don't know if interior lights are monitored.