Here is the home page for the "MINI circuit"!
I will update this page with comments from people that have installed the MINI circuit.
IMPORTANT: if you are considering a garage door opener, please read this email back-and-forth between myself and Mike, and this update from "DanStoren"!
Featured in the MotoringFile 2004 Holiday Gift Guide
Reviewed (with comments) on CooperSpeed
Installed on UKPYLOTs MINI
Gabe Bridgers review on MotoringFile
MINI circuit review on North Eastern MINIs (previously NewYorkMINI)
Mentioned on MotoringFile
Featured on Madison MINI
Installed on Lawrences MINI
Installed on OctaneGuys MINI
I had the hardest time removing the mirror adjuster. For the life of me I couldn't 'feel' the metal prongs. I could see a little metal but finally got it out, gently prying upward until it came out ... I did take two of the metal prongs out (frontside) before I took out the unit. Maybe that's why I could pry it upward? ... I have an '05 MCS. [Keith is referring to the MINI2 downtube removal instructions where the center of the car is disassembled - I have never done this type of MINI circuit install!]
Thanks for a wonderful product. :-)
Anyway, thanks for a fantastic product with great information and support!
[First AFF feedback - thanks!]
It took a little fiddling, since I did it all by "feel". Probably the biggest helpful hints were the fact that you had a photo showing exactly what the release lock on the original connector looked like, so I could feel for what matched the pictures. Also, the "up" marking was a huge help. I found that I had the best angle for aligning the new connector into the slot if I reached my hand behind the downtube on the passenger side and up into the space. Like Murray suggested, I hooked up the connector to the toggle panel first, then put the original to the circuit. When I saw the green light flashing, it was sweet! It works like a charm!!
[my reply] The problem is that you ordered, and I supplied, a switched circuit and not a powered one. The circuit you have is designed to mimic pressing the transmit switch. The two wires would be soldered either side of the switch and the battery stays in the opener. You appear to have wanted / expected a 12V powered circuit which replaces the battery and has the transmit switch linked. We can modify the circuit if you wish [I then gave Mike details of the modifications needed - he said that he was skilled enough to do them]
[Mikes final reply] Thank you very much for your detailed email response. I ordered the incorrect unit. I thought the "powered" unit was the unit with the 9V battery connection; I thought that the other units always used the 12V vehicle power to replace the remote control battery. To fix my problem, I went with the option of using the remote control battery and using the Mini Circuit to control the remote switch. I connected the Mini Circuit leads to the remote switch. I installed the remote battery and all works great. I would have rather got rid of the remote battery, because it will eventually die, but I had the Mini Circuit connections made in the dashboard and thus it was much easier to just modify the remote control and use the battery. I will purchase and install a new battery before I Velcro everything back into the dash.
I very much appreciate your product and the time you spend analyzing and designing the circuit. I had thought many times that I should design a circuit to disable the DSC and at the same time configure a toggle switch for the garage door remote. The Auto-Up feature is an added bonus that I had not thought of designing into the circuit. You have a great product at a very reasonable price plus you have provided outstanding customer support. I am very glad that I stumbled across your web page - I just happened to find your web page when I did a search trying to find information about the toggle switch panel when I was trying to figure out how to add a toggle switch for the garage door opener.
I also very much appreciate that you provided me with a toggle switch. You made my day by providing a toggle switch. Drilling a hole in the switch panel created a little nervous time but all went well. When I first installed the toggle switch it stuck a little in the down position but enlarging the hole slightly corrected the problem.
Thanks again for your work on the circuit and your help getting the circuit operating properly.
[Thanks Mike for working through the problem so clearly. To everyone else, if you want a garage opener version, it is always best to tell me too much about your opener - there are just too many options!]
A couple of quick “wish list” suggestions (which I wouldn’t offer unless the product was already so solid – and I do know that some of these may be difficult/ impossible):
Here is a copy of discussion between Zach and Scott, about installing the garage opener in the headliner to improve the transmission range:
[Scott wrote] I ran a power and ground wire from Ian's circuit under the dash over to the drivers door where I tucked it under the rubber door trim up to the a-pillar cover, then under that cover up to the front left corner of the headliner. Then I tucked it under the headliner going across the top of the windshield almost to the rear view mirror. This is where it's easiest to pull the edge of the headliner down enough to slip the opener in.
I rigged the remote so the button was always pressed, then removed the battery and attached the power and ground wires to the positive and negative terminals in the battery compartment. Then I tucked the remote inside the headliner and it worked great. Doubled the range of the remote as a matter of fact.
The remote I have is 5/8" thick, 1 3/8" wide, and 3 1/4" long. Plenty of room in there for the length and width dimensions. But there's just enough space above the headliner to handle the 5/8" thickness. It makes the front edge of the headliner right in front of the remote come down lower by a fraction, but nothing really noticable.
[Zach wrote] Thanks again for your help! I finished installing my garage door opener in my MINI's headliner … Your description of where you ran the wires was very good info. I was surprised at how easily the wires slipped in.
I did end up putting my opener circuit board in place without it's plastic case. I believe that I will not have a problem with shorting as I have placed the side that could short against the roof facing down towards the headliner itself.
It would have helped me to have a mental image of how the bail on the connector on the back of the toggle panel flipped. Left or right or up or down. Not knowing, I took the supports out and removed the panel. That made the install easy but does take time. Not sure a good mental image would have saved the day however. I was not sure just how the picture in the instructions related to the actual orientation behind the panel. [very difficult to take a picture from the angle needed]
It took me a few minutes to figure out your shorthand on the ignition switch. I think of it as having four positions. Normally 0, 1, 2 and three. Where 0=off and 3 is starter engaged. The 1= accessory and 2 is ignition on. So counting from the left I was trying to do the set up in the second from the left (accessory) and it really requires # 2. [we agree on the terminology, but I am missing the "#" symbol]
I don't know if your circuit causes a long "up" on the lock toggle to open the sunroof and windows or if that is the way I had it programmed at purchase. I was surprised to see it happen. This does not seem to be achieveable from a long press of the unlock button on the remote. [this is a feature of '04 and newer MINIs - I think you can choose whether or not it happens]
If the circuit fails for some reason, is this an inconvenience thing or does this cause a driveability issue? For instance, since the multi-pin connectors are no longer "locked" with a bail and if they decide to work themselves loose, is this going to cause a major problem on the road? Windows for example. I don't see a way around it. I taped the circuit board to prevent shorts, and I used some 'Extreme' silicone tape on the connector to the toggle panel ... [The connector is a cost compromise. In the unlikely event of failure of the MINI circuit, you might lose the toggle switch functions but it will not effect the engine and other electrical systems.]
The garage door opener works as well, though I am going to have to find a way to increase the range a little bit. It works from the driveway, but not much further back.
Thanks for this great mod!
[* I emailed back asking why "makes me laugh" and got this reply:] It's such a thrill to see your work in action. I'm impressed. Laughter in delite. Excellent!
Like some of your customers I have the factory accessory instruments. Unlike some of your customers I discovered that the best installation approach is to enter from the top. By removing the down tubes and taking the switch panel off (as outlined in steps 8 & 9 in your instructions) installation requires far less disassembly than would be required to remove the instruments and lower panel. While it takes a little more caution to attach the connector to the board while holding it partially inside the instrument panel, it is not hard to make it happen. Now that I know how the car is built I could install the board in less that 15 min. with the shift console in place on any MINI.
Last but not least, the way you have the board designed to allow the auto up and DSC features to be either enabled or disabled depending on the needs of the owner is not just clever it is FANTASTIC. While the danger of an auto up window in the MINI is overrated because the switch for the window is remote from the door, and guarded, disabling the feature when necessary solves any possible problem this installation might cause.
Thank you for your effort in designing and bringing this wonderful product to the MINI driving public.
I decided to be safe and NOT do it the "blind" way. (If I was going to do it blind I'd follow the advice in the feedback of Murray since the 2005's larger "Trim" piece is a major pain to completely remove.)
My 2005 didn't have any screws holding down the "Fascia". A sharp tug was all it took. (Note: The plastic surrounds from the Hazard, and Dash light buttons also popped out as a result of the tug, but wasn't a problem to replace later.) I also didn't have to remove, or even open the "Trim" piece, as there was enough room to pass the connected MiniCircuit through the hole behind the "Toggle Switch Panel."
See this picture and this picture
I use it at least twice a day going in and out of a parking garage at work, and occasionally at a drive-up ATM or fast food window. The first day after installation, I actually used the auto-up 5 times [you kept count? :) ]. I don't know how to put a price on convenience, but it's nice to double-click it and forget it ...
[A few suggestions to check, then Allen reported back] Thanks for your help - fixed the problem, the circuit somehow came loose. I replugged it in and its working great! [good!]
so well designed/engineered with the little LED for feedback etc etc... i'm VERY satisfied!
[Thanks Gary!]
I think it's easier to connect to the switch panel prior to connecting the cable to your circuit. Also, it then pays one to look at the way the car's connector and your connector differ ( cars connector is much thicker ) and helps you think about locating your connector more in the middle of the switch panel's socket (does that make sense?) It would be a bit easier if your connector was as thick or deep as the car's connector, but I managed it with only one attempt.
I then tested everything, configured everything and I am delighted.
Kudos to Ian for the board. I love having the auto-up - even with the extra install time, it was well worth it.
[Wow - I only shipped this on the 20th!]
My only suggestion for your directions would be a little more info for the GDO part- it wasn't working and then I remembered I had to tape the button down so it would be always on. [good suggestion - thanks; I will work on it]
After that was done, everything was a piece of cake. I did the entire install from the drivers side...for some reason it is easier for me to work with my left hand in this situation, even though I'm right handed. It was VERY helpful that you wrote the word up on your connector. I was very surprised how easily it snapped behind the toggle panel, did not have to try and try again, it just worked.
Also, with the switched opener, soldered the 2 wires to opener, and using the battery. Works great. The AutoUp circuit and my garage door opener fit in the space no problem. I didn't use any velcro or attachments...drove around for a while afterward, and no rattles or sliding sounds.
Thanks so much, amazing product! If anyone has questions about the 2005 install, I'd be happy to help.
I installed a MINI circuit for him, and had tremendous difficulty doing the "'05 blind install" that others have described. I had to reach in from the passenger side to access the connector in the back of the toggle switch panel, then removing it was easy. But trying to line up and plug in the MINI circuit connector to the back of the toggle switch panel was very difficult - my large(?) hands did not allow easy movement!
One difficulty was that I could not hold the connector in the correct not-quite-horizontal alignment needed to plug into the toggle switch panel; I eventually found that holding the connector with the wires ABOVE my fingers allowed for better alignment, and it plugged in.
Thankfully I got the alignment correct and all worked perfectly. I think blind installation in an '05 needs smaller hands ...
My only suggestion for improving the excellent directions is to mention at the beginning of them to lower the window before starting. I know you mention to lower the window later in the directions, but for someone like me who dives in before reading (yeah, I know its a bad habit), it meant that I had to back track.
Thanks for making this process so painless. And thanks for addressing the need for this function.
The most difficulty I had was getting the the garage door opener stuck on ON. MY first try with electrical tape didn't work. I ended up taping very tightly a small wooden block down on the small pushbutton on the door opener and it worked well.
I agree with an earlier comment about you referring to the "door toggle" but it would be more clear to call it the "door lock toggle". The icon is a padlock, it effects the door locks, right? [I have added the padlock symbol to the instructions - apparently still not clear enough]
All that took about 40 minutes and by golly now it even feels like I gained a few more horsepower. But then maybe that was due to the new air filter I installed after the circuit. Anyway, I am happy with a very nice mod and product, Thanks Ian
I will update this page with comments from people that have installed the MINI circuit.
IMPORTANT: if you are considering a garage door opener, please read this email back-and-forth between myself and Mike, and this update from "DanStoren"!
The MINI circuit is mentioned on these web sites ...
Discussed in the MINI USA Owners Lounge (you must register to access the OL)Featured in the MotoringFile 2004 Holiday Gift Guide
Reviewed (with comments) on CooperSpeed
Installed on UKPYLOTs MINI
Gabe Bridgers review on MotoringFile
MINI circuit review on North Eastern MINIs (previously NewYorkMINI)
Mentioned on MotoringFile
Featured on Madison MINI
Installed on Lawrences MINI
Installed on OctaneGuys MINI
January 14, 2005: Feedback from Heiko (in Germany)
The parcel arrived today ! Thanx a lot... I already installed it (not the blind method) and it works great. The manual is excellent, I do not know how you could improve it !
January 11, 2005: Feedback from Keith
We have roll -up! It took me awhile but we have installed the new device and it works GREAT!
I did the long [install], not being comfortable with feeling for the connector. Now that I've done it, I might be able to do it without taking everything apart. Of course I had 1 screw left over and can't for the life of me figure out where I forgot a small one. :-[I had the hardest time removing the mirror adjuster. For the life of me I couldn't 'feel' the metal prongs. I could see a little metal but finally got it out, gently prying upward until it came out ... I did take two of the metal prongs out (frontside) before I took out the unit. Maybe that's why I could pry it upward? ... I have an '05 MCS. [Keith is referring to the MINI2 downtube removal instructions where the center of the car is disassembled - I have never done this type of MINI circuit install!]
Thanks for a wonderful product. :-)
January 11, 2005: Feedback from Mike
Just wanted to say thank you. I got to install the kit in about 10min the "blind way". it was easier then i thought.
January 10, 2005: Feedback from Joshua
I received the circuit just a couple days after I paid for it :) I installed it on my 2005 MINI and it is working well!
January 9, 2005: Feedback from Robert
Just wanted to let you know I just got my circuit installed yesterday (a fellow owner was helping me figure out a problem with the aux input so we decided to go ahead and get it hooked up as well). Everything works GREAT!!! Thanks!
January 7, 2005: Feedback from Kevin
Got the circuit just now and have installed it. Instructions were great, I think I got it installed in approximately 15 minutes or so. Great product!
January 2, 2005: Feedback from Chris
I got the circuit and installed it along with the [9V powered] garage door opener. I decided on the blind method and it only took me 15 minutes to get it all done. It works fabulously!!!
Thanks so much!
January 1, 2005: Feedback from Bob
I installed the circuit today [9V powered version], everything is working fine, the instructions were great. Thanks again
December 29, 2004: Feedback from Jason
Just wanted to drop you a line that I installed your MINI circuit in my '05 MCS yesterday. Everything went without a hitch. I did the "blind install" method, which worked fine even though I have an '05 ('course, my friends sometimes say I have "spider hands" so that probably made it easier for me.)
Everything works great, and it's much easier now to roll up the windows while driving off; I don't have to run into the high RPMs anymore 'cause I can't shift!
December 26, 2004: Feedback from Bob
I just wanted to let you know that I was able to get the auto-up circuit board installed today on my 05 MCSC in about 15 minutes w/o having to remove the center posts. The circuit works perfectly and is a great addition to my car. Also, while installing it I learned a cool feature I didn’t realize – holding the unlock button up for the 5 seconds causes the convertible top to go down.Anyway, thanks for a fantastic product with great information and support!
December 25, 2004: AFF Feedback from Allan
After installing the Auto Fog circuit, I now have that cool 3 tier lighting look to my MCS. It took all over 2 minutes to add this circuit to my auto-up/dsc off circuit. Another beautiful thing is that the FF come on with just the parking lights too-- GREAT!!!
Btw, very nice workmanship![First AFF feedback - thanks!]
December 21, 2004: Feedback from Rob
Just wanted to say that I installed the circuit today and it works perfectly. I also wanted to let you know your included installation instructions were very descriptive and made the job a piece of cake. About 45min start to finish. If I did it again I could do it in 20. Thanks for the great product!
December 20, 2004: Feedback from Joshua
I was given an Auto-up Circuit for the holidays. I have to say it is amazing. I installed it on my 05’ cooper and it could not have been easier. I followed the “Blind” install instructions, and it took longer to remove the clasp from the wire harness then to install the circuit itself!
December 19, 2004: Feedback from Melanie
I just wanted to give you feedback on the circuit - I DID IT! I just got my 2005 MCSc yesterday, and it's all set to go!It took a little fiddling, since I did it all by "feel". Probably the biggest helpful hints were the fact that you had a photo showing exactly what the release lock on the original connector looked like, so I could feel for what matched the pictures. Also, the "up" marking was a huge help. I found that I had the best angle for aligning the new connector into the slot if I reached my hand behind the downtube on the passenger side and up into the space. Like Murray suggested, I hooked up the connector to the toggle panel first, then put the original to the circuit. When I saw the green light flashing, it was sweet! It works like a charm!!
December 16, 2004: Feedback from Ed
I know you have heard it before, but this may possibly be the single greatest mod ever (def, when you consider price). Thanks so much!
December 16, 2004: Feedback from David
I have received your Auto-Front-Fogs circuit very promptly today. I have a 2005 MINI Cooper S and installation was very quick and easy. Since you say that I am the first 2005 owner to have installed this addon circuit, I am reporting that it works just like you say. Thank you for making unarguably the two best convenience mods for the MINI ever. You are a genius.
[blush]
December 15, 2004: Feedback from Eric
Hey Ian! I wanted to drop you a note of thanks. Your auto up circuit works great and exactly as stated. Installation was simple and very well explained. The primary reason I ordered the unit was for the garage door opener and it works great as well. Now I don't have to worry about leaving my garage door opener in the car when parked outside.
December 10, 2004: Feedback from Ioan in Canada
I received my Auto-up circuit yesterday and I installed it today. Installation was very easy but I removed the tubes to get a better access... I tried it and it works great bit I'll have to wait a little while to get a test drive and enjoy it plenty because we are having a bad snowstorm right now... :-(
December 7, 2004: Feedback from Mike - confusion over Garage Opener versions
[first email]
I installed my Mini Circuit with Auto-Up, Track Mode DSC, and Switched Garage Door Opener ... The Auto-Up and DSC work fine but the garage door opener does not operate ... The remote control is a Genie 12V just like the one you show modified on your web page. I jumped across the remote control push button switch and the remote operates properly when 12 volts are applied at the power contacts (battery terminals).
The problem appears to be with the leads coming off the "Mini Circuit". I connected a volt meter to the leads and I do not measure any voltage when the lock/unlock switch are toggled for more than a half second. The green LED does light when either switch is toggled so it appears that the toggles and circuit are operating properly ... Any suggestions of what might be the problem?[my reply] The problem is that you ordered, and I supplied, a switched circuit and not a powered one. The circuit you have is designed to mimic pressing the transmit switch. The two wires would be soldered either side of the switch and the battery stays in the opener. You appear to have wanted / expected a 12V powered circuit which replaces the battery and has the transmit switch linked. We can modify the circuit if you wish [I then gave Mike details of the modifications needed - he said that he was skilled enough to do them]
[Mikes final reply] Thank you very much for your detailed email response. I ordered the incorrect unit. I thought the "powered" unit was the unit with the 9V battery connection; I thought that the other units always used the 12V vehicle power to replace the remote control battery. To fix my problem, I went with the option of using the remote control battery and using the Mini Circuit to control the remote switch. I connected the Mini Circuit leads to the remote switch. I installed the remote battery and all works great. I would have rather got rid of the remote battery, because it will eventually die, but I had the Mini Circuit connections made in the dashboard and thus it was much easier to just modify the remote control and use the battery. I will purchase and install a new battery before I Velcro everything back into the dash.
I very much appreciate your product and the time you spend analyzing and designing the circuit. I had thought many times that I should design a circuit to disable the DSC and at the same time configure a toggle switch for the garage door remote. The Auto-Up feature is an added bonus that I had not thought of designing into the circuit. You have a great product at a very reasonable price plus you have provided outstanding customer support. I am very glad that I stumbled across your web page - I just happened to find your web page when I did a search trying to find information about the toggle switch panel when I was trying to figure out how to add a toggle switch for the garage door opener.
I also very much appreciate that you provided me with a toggle switch. You made my day by providing a toggle switch. Drilling a hole in the switch panel created a little nervous time but all went well. When I first installed the toggle switch it stuck a little in the down position but enlarging the hole slightly corrected the problem.
Thanks again for your work on the circuit and your help getting the circuit operating properly.
[Thanks Mike for working through the problem so clearly. To everyone else, if you want a garage opener version, it is always best to tell me too much about your opener - there are just too many options!]
December 3, 2004: Feedback from Tod
I just wanted to let you know that I installed the circuit and it works perfectly. Your instructions were very clear. Thanks for making this available.
November 27, 2004: Feedback from Jeff
Received the unit yesterday. Installed in 20 minutes. I have been wishing I had this feature for the last year. Great product.
November 27, 2004: Feedback from Zach (Garage Opener install in headliner, with help from Scott)
Thanks for your work to design and develop your MINI Circuit. As of the day after Thanksgiving I have everything (the last bit was the garage door opener in the headliner) installed and functioning.
I found your directions good and your email assistance excellent.A couple of quick “wish list” suggestions (which I wouldn’t offer unless the product was already so solid – and I do know that some of these may be difficult/ impossible):
- would it be possible to get identical/ original male and female plugs on the board and on the wire from the board to the bank of switches? Would make it nearly impossible to make a mistake on plugging things in. [not possible at any sensible cost – would require tooling up mating connectors]
- have you considered offering garage door opener wiring long enough to reach the location in the headliner (right near the rear view mirror) where Scott and I have both installed our openers? Mine is fitting totally flush (ie no displacement down of headliner) and working better than it did when I would hold the opener in my hand by my windshield. This could be another option that you could offer. If you would like I could send an estimated length needed for that wire. [if anyone asked for this, I could do it – an estimated length would be useful]
- could a switch other than the door lock switch be used for programming (but leave the garage door opener on the door lock switch – I like it there)? I have a sunroof and it was an (albeit minor) nuisance to have the windows and sunroof opening while I was working to turn on functionality. [yes … but not all MINIs have any other switches]
Here is a copy of discussion between Zach and Scott, about installing the garage opener in the headliner to improve the transmission range:
[Scott wrote] I ran a power and ground wire from Ian's circuit under the dash over to the drivers door where I tucked it under the rubber door trim up to the a-pillar cover, then under that cover up to the front left corner of the headliner. Then I tucked it under the headliner going across the top of the windshield almost to the rear view mirror. This is where it's easiest to pull the edge of the headliner down enough to slip the opener in.
I rigged the remote so the button was always pressed, then removed the battery and attached the power and ground wires to the positive and negative terminals in the battery compartment. Then I tucked the remote inside the headliner and it worked great. Doubled the range of the remote as a matter of fact.
The remote I have is 5/8" thick, 1 3/8" wide, and 3 1/4" long. Plenty of room in there for the length and width dimensions. But there's just enough space above the headliner to handle the 5/8" thickness. It makes the front edge of the headliner right in front of the remote come down lower by a fraction, but nothing really noticable.
[Zach wrote] Thanks again for your help! I finished installing my garage door opener in my MINI's headliner … Your description of where you ran the wires was very good info. I was surprised at how easily the wires slipped in.
I did end up putting my opener circuit board in place without it's plastic case. I believe that I will not have a problem with shorting as I have placed the side that could short against the roof facing down towards the headliner itself.
November 23, 2004: Feedback from Mike
Just wanted to let you know I got the circuit in, insanely easy install thanks to the great directions, works like a charm! Thank you !!!!
November 22, 2004: Feedback from Will
Ian, I received the Mini Circuit on Sat. and installed yesterday. no problem. Avoided the removal of down tubes, but trim piece w/ built in tray was a bit of a "mutha" Once out though it was 5 minutes to sucess. Garage door opener and windows work like a charm. Thanks so much.
November 22, 2004: Feedback from Vince
Excellent instructions and the circuit works as specified.It would have helped me to have a mental image of how the bail on the connector on the back of the toggle panel flipped. Left or right or up or down. Not knowing, I took the supports out and removed the panel. That made the install easy but does take time. Not sure a good mental image would have saved the day however. I was not sure just how the picture in the instructions related to the actual orientation behind the panel. [very difficult to take a picture from the angle needed]
It took me a few minutes to figure out your shorthand on the ignition switch. I think of it as having four positions. Normally 0, 1, 2 and three. Where 0=off and 3 is starter engaged. The 1= accessory and 2 is ignition on. So counting from the left I was trying to do the set up in the second from the left (accessory) and it really requires # 2. [we agree on the terminology, but I am missing the "#" symbol]
I don't know if your circuit causes a long "up" on the lock toggle to open the sunroof and windows or if that is the way I had it programmed at purchase. I was surprised to see it happen. This does not seem to be achieveable from a long press of the unlock button on the remote. [this is a feature of '04 and newer MINIs - I think you can choose whether or not it happens]
If the circuit fails for some reason, is this an inconvenience thing or does this cause a driveability issue? For instance, since the multi-pin connectors are no longer "locked" with a bail and if they decide to work themselves loose, is this going to cause a major problem on the road? Windows for example. I don't see a way around it. I taped the circuit board to prevent shorts, and I used some 'Extreme' silicone tape on the connector to the toggle panel ... [The connector is a cost compromise. In the unlikely event of failure of the MINI circuit, you might lose the toggle switch functions but it will not effect the engine and other electrical systems.]
November 20, 2004: Feedback from Greg
I got and installed it today. I first tried to do it "blind." I wasn't sure what I was feeling so I played it safe. I took apart the side pods and losened the dash. Once I had it all apart it went very quickly and without a problem. I really appreciate the high quality, color instructions. Cheapest and easiest mod yet. Thank you for the great product!
November 20, 2004: Feedback from David
Well, I finally had the chance to install the circuit today (05 MCS) and it worked like a champ. The hardest part was getting the trim piece out below the toggle switches. Once I got that out, the plug only took a couple minutes to find and get unplugged (I didn't remove the downtubes).The garage door opener works as well, though I am going to have to find a way to increase the range a little bit. It works from the driveway, but not much further back.
Thanks for this great mod!
November 20, 2004: Feedback from Rick
Great! Followed instructions, Everything works, the switched garage opener makes me laugh [*]! Did it through the small opening. Used velcro to secure MINI SWITCH and opener. Thanks for your work and help[* I emailed back asking why "makes me laugh" and got this reply:] It's such a thrill to see your work in action. I'm impressed. Laughter in delite. Excellent!
November 17, 2004: Feedback from Brandon
I recieved my Mini Circuit today and installed in less than 30min. The instructions were clear enough so that I did not even need to dismantle the interior, I took off that plate and found the harness with relative ease. The unit itself is easy to program and easy to use and works perfectly just as you said, great product. Thanks again.
November 14, 2004: Feedback from Phil
I just wanted to write and let you know how pleased I am with your auto up window mod. I have to enter a guarded facility a few times a day and each time I have to go through 2 check points.
Trying to pull away, put away a bunch of ID's, roll up the windows, and shift gears at the same time is a real pain, especially in the rain. Your circuit solved the problem. You also make the process so simple.
The Paypal button on the website allowed me to pay for the circuit in seconds, it arrived two days after I placed the order, and the instructions were well written and comprehensive.Like some of your customers I have the factory accessory instruments. Unlike some of your customers I discovered that the best installation approach is to enter from the top. By removing the down tubes and taking the switch panel off (as outlined in steps 8 & 9 in your instructions) installation requires far less disassembly than would be required to remove the instruments and lower panel. While it takes a little more caution to attach the connector to the board while holding it partially inside the instrument panel, it is not hard to make it happen. Now that I know how the car is built I could install the board in less that 15 min. with the shift console in place on any MINI.
Last but not least, the way you have the board designed to allow the auto up and DSC features to be either enabled or disabled depending on the needs of the owner is not just clever it is FANTASTIC. While the danger of an auto up window in the MINI is overrated because the switch for the window is remote from the door, and guarded, disabling the feature when necessary solves any possible problem this installation might cause.
Thank you for your effort in designing and bringing this wonderful product to the MINI driving public.
November 13, 2004: Feedback from Bill
I've just installed it and it works great! Here's how the install went on my 2005 Mini Cooper:I decided to be safe and NOT do it the "blind" way. (If I was going to do it blind I'd follow the advice in the feedback of Murray since the 2005's larger "Trim" piece is a major pain to completely remove.)
My 2005 didn't have any screws holding down the "Fascia". A sharp tug was all it took. (Note: The plastic surrounds from the Hazard, and Dash light buttons also popped out as a result of the tug, but wasn't a problem to replace later.) I also didn't have to remove, or even open the "Trim" piece, as there was enough room to pass the connected MiniCircuit through the hole behind the "Toggle Switch Panel."
See this picture and this picture
November 12, 2004: Feedback from Ed
Just a note to let you know how pleased I am with the ease of installation and performance of the auto-up switch circuit I received from you a few weeks ago. The instructions were very clear and I was able to install it without disassembly in about 15 minutes. I had replaced the switch block some time ago to take advantage of the rear fog light feature on my '03 EB/MCS (Dec. '02 build), so I had something to "practice" on.I use it at least twice a day going in and out of a parking garage at work, and occasionally at a drive-up ATM or fast food window. The first day after installation, I actually used the auto-up 5 times [you kept count? :) ]. I don't know how to put a price on convenience, but it's nice to double-click it and forget it ...
November 8, 2004: Problem feedback (resolved) from Allen
[Early message] I installed your auto up circuit a few months back without a problem. Suddenly tonight, none of my toggles work when the lights are on. When the lights are off, they work fine. Any thoughts?[A few suggestions to check, then Allen reported back] Thanks for your help - fixed the problem, the circuit somehow came loose. I replugged it in and its working great! [good!]
November 6, 2004: Feedback from Pete K.
Rec'd the circuit and installed in 16 minutes, 2 minutes of which was spent just playing with the windows going up and down by themselves!
[:)]
November 6, 2004: Feedback from Michael
I installed my MINI circuit a few days ago and all I can say is this is the best $50 I have spent on my MINI so far. It is simply fantastic.
November 2, 2004: Feedback from Gary (in Australia!)
got my MINI circuit today [left 26th your time - here 2nd my time] & it's already in... i opted to remove the uprights & it was a piece o' cake thereafter!so well designed/engineered with the little LED for feedback etc etc... i'm VERY satisfied!
[Thanks Gary!]
November 1, 2004: Feedback from Randy
Got it this morning and had it installed in no time. Since I had just had the downtubes off the other day installing the AUX Input, I decided to do it again and be as careful as possible installing this.
I ended up attaching the circuit using velcro to a plastic box (says VALEO on it I think) that's right behind the toggle panel. Thanks for the easy install and instructions, works like a charm!
October 31, 2004: Feedback from Murray on a 2005 MINI Cooper S
No need to remove any trim, I simply flipped the trim piece down using the two tabs and there was plenty of 'give' on the hinge to open it.
Then I suggest you do the install from the right-hand side (USA passenger side) if you kneel outside the car your hand can go up the opening where the trip panel is opened. your first finger can press the release catch while your 2nd finger can flip the clip off the connector.I think it's easier to connect to the switch panel prior to connecting the cable to your circuit. Also, it then pays one to look at the way the car's connector and your connector differ ( cars connector is much thicker ) and helps you think about locating your connector more in the middle of the switch panel's socket (does that make sense?) It would be a bit easier if your connector was as thick or deep as the car's connector, but I managed it with only one attempt.
I then tested everything, configured everything and I am delighted.
October 29, 2004: Feedback from Neil
Just received and installed in 15 minutes! Great circuit. Your instructions are very clear and concise.
October 25, 2004: Feedback from JeffM, and a note about AUX GAUGES, in this MINI2 thread
An installation note:
If you've got the factory accessory gauges installed between the downtubes, putting Ian's module in place is more complex than his directions indicate. This was my case. I still didn't have any trouble, just had to do more disassembly of the car before I could put the board in. The issue is that the gauges and their panel block access to the torx screw that holds the access panel in place, so you need to remove the gauges as your first step.
I had originally intended to do the installation blind from below (to make it quick), but found that to get the gauges out I had to remove the trim around the gear shift lever and cupholders as well as the downtubes. So this turned into more of a project that I had anticipated, but was still pretty straightforward.Kudos to Ian for the board. I love having the auto-up - even with the extra install time, it was well worth it.
October 25, 2004: Feedback from Eric
I received the auto up circuit today. And it is great. I’ve used it twice already, once at the mailbox, and again at the ATM. I Don’t know how I lived without it for so long.
I seem to always be driving with my windows down at a stop light that’s just turning green while my phone is ringing. Before that used to involve quite the “cirque du soliel” of moves to shift put up the windows steer and answer my phone all at the same time.
Now Ian you have made my life easier when I get stuck in situations like that. Thanks again for the great item, and fast shipment. Instructions are excellent, nice color pictures too!
October 22, 2004: Feedback from Andrew
Received your circuit today – had it installed in 2005 Mini Cooper S in about 15 minutes. Thanks again for taking the time to design and document the installation for fellow Mini owners! I love it – definitely will appreciate the auto-up features every day![Wow - I only shipped this on the 20th!]
October 18, 2004: Feedback from Mark
I finally picked up my 2005 MCS on Saturday and installed the MINI Circuit on Sunday. It's awesome and I totally love it! It was very easy to install (I didn't take off the down tubes,
I simply accessed everything via the removable cover just below the toggle panel). I showed it to my neighbor (who also has a MCS), and now he wants one too. Thus, I'll be ordering another one from you today.
October 18, 2004: Feedback from Alex
I am finally back from vacation and received your package. It installed pretty easily- I didn't have to take the downtubes off, but I did have to try twice - first time I got it connected it must not have been seated quite right because the switches weren't working right.
Undid it and retried, and then it worked perfectly.My only suggestion for your directions would be a little more info for the GDO part- it wasn't working and then I remembered I had to tape the button down so it would be always on. [good suggestion - thanks; I will work on it]
October 16, 2004: Feedback from Bob
I recieved and Installed the 12v GDO/AU ckt. great directions, very easy install, works great. I installed the modified Genie garage door opened under the dash as listed in the directions.
It will open my garage door from 500 feet away, it has better range then before!! Auto up works great! Thanks Ian. I've told my MINI club (Atlanta MINIs) about your products.
October 10, 2004: Feedback from Jesse
I just got the circuit today, and installed it when I got home from work. Took less than five minutes. It works perfectly. The instructions and everything else was perfect. Thanks man, I appreciate it.
October 9, 2004: Feedback from Paul
Just thought I'd let you know that I am another success story to add to the list. It was way easier to get the downtubes removed than I expected, took
just a few minutes to remove, install the circuit and put it back together - maybe 10 minutes tops. Its totally awesome - thanks so much!
October 8, 2004: Feedback from David
Just got done installing the AutoUP with the switched garage door opener in my 2005 MCSC. Worked perfectly. Don't need to remove the Torx screw on the 2005, since the part folds down to gain access behind the toggle panel.
I did the install "blind". The hardest part was removing the original connector from the back of the toggle panel. It's hard to press down the button and slide the latch over to disengage the connector.
But after a couple of minutes I was able to get it.After that was done, everything was a piece of cake. I did the entire install from the drivers side...for some reason it is easier for me to work with my left hand in this situation, even though I'm right handed. It was VERY helpful that you wrote the word up on your connector. I was very surprised how easily it snapped behind the toggle panel, did not have to try and try again, it just worked.
Also, with the switched opener, soldered the 2 wires to opener, and using the battery. Works great. The AutoUp circuit and my garage door opener fit in the space no problem. I didn't use any velcro or attachments...drove around for a while afterward, and no rattles or sliding sounds.
Thanks so much, amazing product! If anyone has questions about the 2005 install, I'd be happy to help.
October 6, 2004: Feedback from Me!
Tonight Stephan came by with his brand new Cool Blue MINI convertible - very nice car :)I installed a MINI circuit for him, and had tremendous difficulty doing the "'05 blind install" that others have described. I had to reach in from the passenger side to access the connector in the back of the toggle switch panel, then removing it was easy. But trying to line up and plug in the MINI circuit connector to the back of the toggle switch panel was very difficult - my large(?) hands did not allow easy movement!
One difficulty was that I could not hold the connector in the correct not-quite-horizontal alignment needed to plug into the toggle switch panel; I eventually found that holding the connector with the wires ABOVE my fingers allowed for better alignment, and it plugged in.
Thankfully I got the alignment correct and all worked perfectly. I think blind installation in an '05 needs smaller hands ...
October 5, 2004: Feedback from Terry
Finally had time to install the circuit in my '02 S. I had set aside about an hour to do the job, and to my pleasant surprise --- 12 minutes later and its done.
Haven't had time nor inclination to do my '05 S yet, still waiting for the dealer to get my rear fog light kit. Great value for the money, and a very well made and designed circuit.
Anyone having trepidation about installing the kit in the central Indiana area feel free to give them my email address and I would be happy to help them. Thanks again.
October 4, 2004: Feedback from Bob
I finally got around to installing your Auto-up Circuit. I was a bit apprehensive since I had thought my days of crawling under dashboards was over. I have installed way too many stereo systems in the past and quite frankly came to dread cramming myself under dashboards.
So in the interest of trying to get the install over fast, I first tried it without removing the down tubes. Not nearly as painful as I had imagined. It took two tries to get everything connected properly, but within 15 minutes I had everything sorted out and "Bob's your uncle", I had a fully functioning auto-up driver's window. What a joy.
I'm still not sure why it took two tries, since I seemed to connect things exactly the same both times, but the first time, the toggles acted wonky. So I just disconnected everything and tried it a second.
[misbehaving toggle switches is caused by a misalignment of the connector to the back of the toggle switch panel]
Now I will have the pleasure of blasting off from those toll booths without trying to juggle the toggles and shifting at the same time.My only suggestion for improving the excellent directions is to mention at the beginning of them to lower the window before starting. I know you mention to lower the window later in the directions, but for someone like me who dives in before reading (yeah, I know its a bad habit), it meant that I had to back track.
Thanks for making this process so painless. And thanks for addressing the need for this function.
October 2, 2004: Feedback from Chuck - with 9V powered opener advice
My install went without any problems. I was able to reach up from the drivers side floor found the connector and after a couple of tries the
retaining bump was pushed and the latching bail come up and the connector was free. The test went fine. I also was able to easily
reconnect the new circuit into the 18 pins behind the toggle switches by feeling for the pins and making sure the UP label was pointing up.
Test two also went fine as far as the LED turning on for three seconds then turning off. However the next sentence "hold the door toggle UP
and confirm that the doors unlock. Keep the toggle held up and watch the LED on the MINI circuit - after 5 seconds it should begin to flash,
until you release the toggle" It didn't flash, just turned on then off like before [strange].
Anyway I just moved ahead and everything programmed out fine, auto-up both windows, default DSC on or off as needed and the garage door opens/closes just fine.The most difficulty I had was getting the the garage door opener stuck on ON. MY first try with electrical tape didn't work. I ended up taping very tightly a small wooden block down on the small pushbutton on the door opener and it worked well.
I agree with an earlier comment about you referring to the "door toggle" but it would be more clear to call it the "door lock toggle". The icon is a padlock, it effects the door locks, right? [I have added the padlock symbol to the instructions - apparently still not clear enough]
All that took about 40 minutes and by golly now it even feels like I gained a few more horsepower. But then maybe that was due to the new air filter I installed after the circuit. Anyway, I am happy with a very nice mod and product, Thanks Ian
Older feedback has been moved to here to reduce download times for this file!