WASHINGTON, D.C. -

With authorities receiving 12 complaints of engine compartment fires, Mini Cooper S vehicles from model years 2007 and 2008 are being examined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Defects Investigation.

The investigation involves 36,000 units across the following models:

2008 Mini Cooper Clubman S
2007–2008 Mini Cooper S
2007–2008 Mini Cooper S Clubman
2007–2008 Mini Cooper S Convertible

Five of the 12 allegations have involved “engulfing fires” that led to the vehicle being totaled. Meanwhile, eight claimed that the fires happened when the car was parked without the ignition on.

“The complaints show an apparent increasing trend with most complaints received within the past year. In addition, ODI has reviewed field reports submitted as part of early warning reporting data that relate to the alleged defect,” authorities noted.

“A preliminary evaluation has been opened to assess the cause, scope and frequency of the alleged defect,” they added.

NHTSA declined further comment and representatives with BMW and Mini had not yet responded to a request for comment by Auto Remarketing as of press time.