I have a 2007 mini and yesterday afternoon noticed the parking lights were on. Weird since I hadn't driven the car since the day before. There was no way to turn them off and now the doors won't unlock as I believe the battery is drained. I was able to start the car a few times yesterday while trying to figure out why parking lights would not go out. Has anyone else experienced this? How to get in the car now is another new problem, any suggestions?

 

Weird electrical gremlins can happen with these MINI's when a battery is bad or on its way out. I'd recommend testing your battery. A typical reading would be in the 12.6-volt range when the battery is fully charged. If the reading is 12 volts or less, then the battery needs charging or needs to be replaced with a new one. To be certain, you can take your battery to your local auto parts store for testing. You can use this article here for specific info about the battery location and what your R56 is equipped with: MINI Cooper R56 Battery and Connection Notes Replacement (2007-2011) | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article. Do you have a key or is it just a fob? Do you have your owners manual?