Sticking re-circulate switch
 

Just purchased a second Mini (2005 Coupe). The re-circulate switch on the heater panel is stuck "ON". Any suggestions as to a fix?

There are two types of HVAC panels one has a round dial you set the digital temp , the other has a red /blue dial whicg one do you have ?

The red-blue manual set type. All the push buttons (rear window defrost, re-circulate, AC) are impossible to push with the re-circulate stuck ON. I now suspect some previous owner has used a desolvant cleaner on the panel. Do you know of a lubricant that will not dissolve or weld plastic.

It might be best to remove the unit and dissassemble and try to remove the PCB and break them loose...
OR buy This :
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/02-08...Q5fAccessories

Thanks; I agree that replacement is the correct option. If one tears into it enough to remove the uint, just replace the panel as a set.