Feedback

(go here for the for the “MINI circuit” home page)

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

September 29, 2008: Feedback from Lauren

Installed the circuit and it works great. Thanks for producing such a great item!

September 20, 2008: Feedback from Randall

I received the auto up circuit. The installation was easy and it works flawlessly for both the windows and the DSC.

June 19, 2008: Feedback from Chris

Thanks SO much for your help with the circuit. I’m now in business, after a couple of days’ frustration with downtubes and missing torx bits. And that knee bolster which isn’t really a big deal.
Your circuit was a pretty stress-free install. Mostly because you did the hard part. Thanks So Much for hooking up the remote for the garage door [Chris sent his garage remote and I did the soldering between it and the MINI circuit]. The system works nicely and I’m in business. I can’t wait to get the windows in action tomorrow, the weather is supposed to be really nice this week.

April 15, 2008: Feedback from Alan

I just wanted to take a quick second to say thanks. I received my auto-up circuit yesterday, only took a few minutes to install (small hands), very pleased.

April 10, 2008: Feedback from Robert

I’m loving mine! I’m still getting used to not reaching over to the visor to hit the garage door opener. My wife likes it as she can fully use the passenger visor for the first time as the opener isn’t obstructing it anymore.

April 6, 2008: Feedback from Jason

I got the window module installed today. IT IS FANTASTIC!! Thanks so much for your great work, and solving a couple MINI problems that have been bugging me for a while. Thanks again and great work

April 6, 2008: Feedback from Rob

OK, you’re an electrical genius! The part of the installation process that took the longest was running to Radio Shack to buy an iron and solder. I figured out how to cross-connect the circuits on the back of my g-door opener and soldered a wire between them. Voila, it works! Thanks for the great product!
[Rob bought a garage-opener-remote-controlling version]

March 17, 2008: Feedback from Jaxon

I just installed the MINI circuit you sent me and would like to thank you for it! It works great and your instructions were very helpful! Thanks

March 9, 2008: Feedback from Benjamin

Got the circuit on Thursday, and installed it on the first ‘warm’ day in Atlanta (today, high of 60). I couldn’t get the cover out like you did in the example instructions (I have an o6 (late 06) S). Well, correction, I got it part way out and really got it stuck… but a bit of dodgy jiggery-pokery and I got the blighter back in.
I opted for the ‘quicker’ side bar install, and 10 minutes later I was tying everything back together. Amazingly simple in concept, and amazingly great in execution. Only problem: you can’t see the LED flash when you’re trying to program it post putting it all back together… maybe I just count fast!

March 9, 2008: Feedback from Mark

Quick note to let you know I received my Auto-up last Thursday. Thanks for the great product, shipping and service. 1st class product and service.

December 14, 2007: Feedback from William

I got my circuit today, took about 10 minutes to put in and works fantastic. Thanks again!!

September 11, 2007: Feedback from Tim

I just wanted to thank you for getting the product shipped so quickly, I got it yesterday and it installed in my 2005 Mini Cooper with no tools (I did the blind install) and it took me less than 10 minutes!

August 22, 2007: Feedback from Bryan

Got the circuit I ordered in the mail today. Fantastic turn-around, less than three days!! Thank you for your professionalism, will install tomorrow.

July 19, 2007: Feedback from Chris

Wow, delivery was really fast. I got it hooked up in no time and it works great. Thanks!

April 2, 2007: Feedback from Adrian

I received it last week and installed it today. Thank you for including that first page on how to do a blind install on ‘05 Coopers. I may have smaller hands, but I still have Popeye forearms and still managed to do it! You’re the man!!

May 29, 2007: Feedback from Stephen

Thanks for your quick delivery. I’ve got it this morning and have it just installed. It’s a little difficult with the OEM gauges but everything goes fine and it works flawlessly.

March 26, 2007: Feedback from Max

Agro installed today [at AMVIV] in less than 10 minutes and it is great! I’ve been wanting this mod for so long.
Thanks

December 28, 2006: Feedback from Marc

Happy New Year Ian… Just a note to say Thank You. I got my circuit on tuesday & installed it. It was an easy install and worked flawlessly!!!

November 27, 2006: Feedback from Marco

Everything is in order, circuit installed and works great, thanks!

November 12, 2006: Feedback from Don

I got a new 2006 MINI a few weeks ago. I was able to install with tools, without removing the downtubes. I guess my hands are small enough. It wasn’t easy getting the clip off blind, but I expect it was quicker and easier than removing the downtubes.
Your color photos were indispensable. Once I got the clip off, the rest was straightforward.

September 13, 2006: Feedback from Jack

Got it today. Less than an hour later it’s installed and working. Thanks!
I was able to remove the screws on the downtubes and just slide them down and move them enough to get to the toggle panel screws. Excellent instructions and tips. When I was done I just tucked everything inside the access panel (no velcro).
You think that it will be OK like that over the long haul [yes!] or should I go back later an do the velcro thing? Just attach to the other side of the board, right?
[velcro not needed unless you're concerned about noise from vibration - I've never noticed any (extra) vibration noise from my MINI circuit]

September 12, 2006: Feedback from Scott

I received it yesterday and installed it today. Works like a champ. Fwiw, the “blind option” worked fine installing on my 05 MCSc — I think you’re right that big hands need not apply, but barring a few scratches, my medium hand came through okay.

June 20, 2006: Feedback from Nick

Received the circuit and installed it in my 06 MCS. Works perfectly, super easy install.

June 6, 2006: Feedback from Bernie

I received the circuit yesterday and had it installed within 20 minutes. I decided to remove the down tubes to get to the connection point. It works GREAT! Thanks for providing this great mod!

June 2, 2006: Feedback from Bill

After having my 2006 MCS for 3 weeks, I installed the Circuit I bought from you before the car was even delivered. My Circuit provides auto up windows and DSC off. The latter is especially valued by me.
I was able to install the circuit using the blind method. I didn’t want to take much of the center console apart and, despite having large hands, found the install pretty easy. Thank you for creating the Circuit and all the communications related to it.

April 5, 2006: Feedback from Brock

Thanks, Ian- it arrived yesterday and works as promised.
The pictures in your instructions made it very simple to install in an ‘05 without removing the downtubes.

April 2, 2006: Feedback from Rob

Thanks Ian! I got the boards on Friday and put them in today. 20 minutes for the first one and 10 for the second. They work great!

March 23, 2006: Feedback from James

That was a lot of fun! Thanks to your instructions, I was able to disassemble my whole console and install the circuit in about 70 minutes. It works perfectly and I am very pleased! Thanks

March 6, 2006: Feedback from Lars

Just installed the “windows-up” and DSC unit on my ‘05 MCSC. Though I am 6′-5″ I was able to get the orig. plug off the panel and the new one on without major disassembly. Thanks to all the detailed instructions and photos, I was able to match-up what I was doing with what was correct!
As someone recommended, I found it easier to go in from the LEFT side of the car because I had more strength in my fingers that way to release the stock clip and pull the “lever” (Yes it IS painful getting past the non-removable cover on the ‘06, but I was reluctant to disassemble the dash if not absolutlely neccesary.
(When I do that I always seem to end up with a new squeak or rattle!) Attached it to the cover with Velcro.
Only one thing left me a bit uneasy: The new plug didn’t seem to “click” onto the panel, and I did not have confidence that it would stay on. A couple of times when I was “tidying-up” the plug came off and I had to “start over”. I didn’t want to bend the pins as you warned, so maybe I didn’t press it on hard enough?
After everything was tucked behind the panel, it seems the close quarters would put enough pressure on the ribbon cable to keep it in place(?) It was good that the unit was shipped in an ESD (Electo-Static Discharge) safe bag, but there was no mention of precautions that should be taken when handling an exposed circuit board, especially during dry New England winters!
Also, one discrepancy from the instructions, and maybe this is new for the ‘05 model - The plug for the climate control is white, though definitely high enough not to be confusing.
I know I am knit-picking here, and do NOT want to sound unhappy! To summarize: The unit works great - I wish I had heard of it sooner!
Thanks for a great product!

February 13, 2006: Feedback from Robert

Wanted to let you know I recieved the circiut today, everything worked great on my new 06! (build 12/05) [fast delivery too - shipped from East Coast on the 10th, installed on West Coast four days later]

January 31, 2006: Feedback from Larry

Ian, received and successfully installed the circuit. Just a note, as a right handed person I found it much easier to access the back of the toggle switch with my right hand from the passenger side of my MINI.
I laid halfway on my back and shoulder and had the ability to get my hand in the opening to the back of the toggle switch and the connector. It was like playing Twister, but I had more dexterity with my right hand vice my left.
I struggled with my left and then used my right hand to disconnect and reconnect much easier. Works great and thanks for all you do for the MINI community.

January 29, 2006: Feedback from Andrew

The install was surprisingly easy with the ‘06, i was a little scared since i had never really customized anything in my previous cars, but i just went for it.
Glad to say that everything works great… i just threw one of my socks around the garage remote, i think that should give it padding to prevent rattling. i’ll test that out later, but the auto up works fine and so does activating the garage door opener through the unlock/lock button. i’ll see how the range is.
Thanks again!

January 23, 2006: Feedback from Gary & Rachel

Wow! Thanks, Ian. The circuits arrived FAST, and the installation was sooooooo easy on both the ‘05 S and ‘03 MCS. I did the blind-install on both. It only took a minute or two.
Thanks again for such a great mod!

January 15, 2006: Feedback from Julia

LOVE IT…..LOVE IT……LOVE IT.

January 11, 2006: Feedback from Jeff

Just a quick note… installed your excellent Auto-Up circuit today !!! Works great, your instuctions made it real easy. Thanks very much.

January 7, 2006: Feedback from TJ in Canada

I received the circuit today, and installed it. Can’t thank you enough, it works awesome.

January 7, 2006: Feedback from Mark

I received the my circuit in the mail yesterday and installed it this morning. Thank you for a great product!
So far the only disappointment was that it was a one beer project, and not 3 - 4.

January 6, 2006: Feedback from Dennis

I just installed the windows up in my 2006 MCS and it worked like a charm. Thanks so much!

January 2, 2006: Feedback from Paul

I appreciated your very quick shipment of the auto-up circuit. It arrived while we were away on Holiday travels to Wisconsin and Michigan. I finally got around to installing it today (temperature 60 degs here in Dayton, Ohio area). I have a few notes about installing on 2006 models:
I could not locate the gold coloured tork screws to loosen the bottom of the central speedo pod, but By undoing all the screws on the down tubes, I was able to move them far enough (I slid them down and then tilted the top of the down tubes) out of the way to get at the two screws holding the switch panel in place and remove it.
Then with the access panel opened I could get the circuit behind the switch panel and hooked up. After I figured out how to do it, the installation took no time at all.

The circuit is a very neat piece of work and works as advertised — I am proud to have one in our new 2006.
Thanks for designing and having them built!

November 12, 2005: Feedback from Mark

i just installed your auto-up circuit. the directions were very straight forward and easy to follow. thanks for the sweet product.

November 1, 2005: Feedback from Dolmangar on this NAM thread confirming ‘06 compatibility

Just installed mine on my 06 MCS this Sunday. Works fine. I only have the auto-up function, not the DSC disable. I ordered mine several months ago, even before I had the car, just hadn’t gotten around to installing it.

October 2, 2005: Feedback from Tony

Finally put some free time together and got the Mini circuit installed, and it works great (of course). (I was worried initially as the box had been beaten pretty badly by the postal service.) As advertised, the instructions were excellent and easy to follow. The only suggestion I might add would be to emphasize the .5 second time for the opener.
Maybe bold print or something. By the time I had gotten that far, I had put the instructions away so thought I had a dud for a while.
Also, you might mention that the garage switch only works with the ignition on. Took me a while to figure that one out, too. Anyway, just minor stuff and you can include me as one of your many satisfied customers. I would strongly recommend the product. Thanks also for all of the e-mail support in the ordering department.

September 22, 2005: Feedback from Pat

Received my window auto up and auto front fogs circuits yesterday. Installed them a few minutes ago. Only took a few minutes, even with removing the down tubes as these mitts of mine are just too big for the blind install. Very easy and definitely a modification worth doing.
Now no more leaning over to “hold” the window button up to close. And now all my lights come on with one switch.

September 20, 2005: Feedback from Bennett

Got the circuit yesterday and had it installed on my new ‘05 MCS in about 5 minutes! Used Murray’s description. The only thing that slowed me down was that there isn’t a whole lot of slack in the original toggle switch connector. Other than that, it was simple.
Works great. Thank you for such a great mod. I have auto-up on my Audi and find that it really helps on the Mini. Especially since the toggles for the windows are so far away.

September 20, 2005: Feedback from Kurt

Circuit went in like a charm! 10 minutes total using the “pop the trap door” and feel your way around method (small hands thank goodness!)

Thanks again for the circuit. Adds yet another grin watching those windows slide up unassisted!

September 16, 2005: Feedback from Ryan

I installed the circuit last night and it works great. I found that the instructions seemed awfully intimidating at first glance; over 5 pages of double sided instructions man this is going to be a pain to install. After quickly reading them over I realized I was going in for the blind install to save some time.
I found that they were well done with proper pictures and it was broken up so that it wasn’t too many steps at once.
The only part I had a “problem” with was the plugging the toggle panel connector into your board. I did it backwards at first (two ways to do something with one being the right way….you’re guaranteed to pick the wrong one) but quickly fixed it after doing the first check. I must say that I’m very happy with it and its ease of integration. Thanks again for making it.

September 14, 2005: Feedback from Helen

I received the circuit yesterday and promptly installed it in my ‘05 MINI Cooper. I chose to do the blind install and followed Murray’s suggestions up to the connection procedure.
I followed your directions for connecting because I liked the idea of doing the two tests and NOT blowing any fuses. It all went smoothly and once it was all working I was most impressed……. very cool!!!!
I did do some cursing with the lack of hand room up and behind the ‘trim’. I have a hard time believing a man can fit a hand in that space and do what needs to be done seeing as I have small hands and the one hand I was using is now a bit bruised and tender.
I felt like a bit of a contortionist at times, but I got the job done.
Other than that everything is great. Thank you for producing a great product with easy to understand instructions including helpful pictures.

September 12, 2005: Feedback from Paul

Thanks, just got it today! Love it, by the way!! It was a bit of an adventure installing it, as I had to remove a bunch of other interior modifications to actually remove the switch bank (I don’t trust myself going ‘blind’),
but once I got to the switches and installed the circuit, everything went fine, and couldn’t have been simpler!

September 9, 2005: Feedback from Jeff

I installed the auto up circuit today. Its working great. I have an August 2005 build MCS and saw the note in your directions that the blind install was the only option.
Pulling the tabs on the trim piece below the toggle switches provided enough room for me to disconnect the cable, but didn’t provide enough room for me to reconnect the auto up circuit.
I managed to remove the trim piece all together by removing the single screw and then wiggling the trim piece out. As others have noted, the trim piece is not easy to remove. It fits very tight, but is very flexible.
With some bending and twisting, I managed to pull it out from behind the driver’s side downtube.
At that point, connecting the auto up circuit was a breeze. I conducted the tests recommended in the directions: test 1 passed and test 2 failed. I reconnected the circuit into the switch panel (I must have missed a pin or something on my first try) and test 2 passed.
A little pushing, twisting, bending, and cursing later, the trim piece was back in place and everything was working perfectly.
I’m really pleased with the circuit and wanted to thank you for your excellent product, instructions, and service.

September 9, 2005: Feedback from Steve

Ian – got the circuit yesterday and did the blind install on my 05 MC in about 30 minutes. My hands aren’t too big, but it was more of a finger job anyway. The most difficult part for me was plugging the MINI circuit into the back of the toggle panel.
I had to scrunch the wires together between my middle and ring fingers to make sure I didn’t accidentally flip it over and so that I could use my first and pinky fingers to feel for the outside of the socket.
[yes, it is much more tricky than the pre'05s]
Thanks for a great product!

September 9, 2005: Feedback from Vince

Got it today and installed it today in my 05 MCS using the blind method… took longer to open the box and read the instruction than complete the project.
This is great should have been this way from the factory!!!
Great product, great instructions!

August 21, 2005: Feedback from Barry

Received and installed the window/DSC circuit today. I found it difficult to get the stock pin off blind. I took off downtubes and the toggle switch panel & it was a breeze to unhook the wire from the toggle with 2 hands. Just couldn’t push that pin in and move the lever with one hand. Thanks- it works nice.

August 16, 2005: Feedback from Bruce

The Auto-up with the switched garage door opener arrived today, and was installed quickly. Your instructions are great, and everything went as written. I have a 2002 MCS with a sun roof, and had previously installed a Genie garage door opener behind the trim panel for the sun roof.
That is a great place to install the opener, and only takes a couple of minutes. I placed a Velcro strip on the inside of the trim piece, which keeps the opener in place, and still allows removal or access to change the battery.

August 12, 2005: Feedback from David

I ordered a auto windows up circuit last week. Just installed it this afternoon. You got yourself a great little product. It’s fantastic!
Works like factory. It was very easy to install, I think it took me 10 minutes max. Thank U so much!

August 11, 2005: Feedback from Yegor

Yesterday I installed Auto-UP & Track Mode DSC circuit on my 05 MCSa. First I tried to install it without taking out the down-tubes, but I realized I was wasting time.
I took out the tubes, it took me 10 minutes, installed the circuit, tested and reassembled everything in another 5-10 minutes.
The overall installation took about 25-30 minutes and went flawless.
It works great. Thank you very much for such a solution and good luck!

August 6, 2005: Feedback from Scott

Ian install went OK. I tested the polarity of the garage door by just holding the wires on the solder points and in one condition it opened with no juice to the MINI circuit, I determined this to be the “wrong way” so I soldered them the reveresed (”correct”) way. This proved to be a good test.
I did the 05 with no tools by using the flap method that Murray used. Don’t know why, but I could not get the OEM plug released from the passenger side, but got it the first try from the drivers side after I saw that someone else also found it easier. I did do your Test#1, but after trying for a very long time to plug in the Mini circuit to the toggle switch box, I finally disconnected the plug from the Mini circuit so that it could flop around a little.
When I finally got the mini circuit plug connected the door lock made the window go up. I reconnected, only to have the same result. [this would be due to the pins of the connector being mis-aligned]
I almost resolved to removing the down tubes but decided to give it one more chance. BINGO! it worked. I velcro’d the board from the garage door opener (as this made it smaller) and the Mini circuit to the trap door and away I went. Programming went great. I only wish I could see the LED with the trap door closed. I like your product so much I might just get used to counting, since I’m not likely to program on a frequent basis except for the DSC disable/enable when I autocross.

August 2, 2005: Feedback from Thomas (in Germany)

Thank you so much for your circuit! I received it last week at my hotel in Philadelphia [Thomas was in USA and had me ship it there] and couldn’t wait coming home to install it in my MINI.
Now I am at home and have successfully installed it and it works just incredibly. Thanx once more!!!

August 1, 2005: Feedback from Craig

I installed my mini circuit today in my May 05 MCS and have nothing but praise for your product and instructions. It would have been only about a fifteen minute job, but I took time to drill out the empty (rear fog light) location and install a spare toggle switch so it took me about 45 minutes.
Downtube removal is easy if you just give a little tug to pull them out of the console. I can’t imagine doing the blind installation when it’s so easy to remove the downtubes. Also, the programming (enabling and disabling) is easy and intuitive. Thanks again for great service and a great product.

June 20, 2005: Feedback from Robert

Ian, the directions were perfect, and I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to put the Mini Circuit into my car. Thanks, so much, it works great!!!

June 20, 2005: Feedback from Dave

A couple of comments as relates to an ‘05 MCS:
When pulling out the speedo fascia panel, you should first pull off the hazard and guage light adjustment bezels. Simply grip the outside of the bezel and pull out. If you pull out the fascia panel first, these will pop out and land in the nether regions of your footwells.
Second, the speedo fascia panel is actually underneath the other two panels on a three-piece dashboard. If you pull out the speedo fascia first, it will be very difficult to pull until the other panels pop out.
I recommend pulling out the right lower corner of the driver’s side panel, and the left lower corner of the passenger’s side panel (reverse for UK cars!). This will make it easy to release the center panel.
Note that I didn’t find it necessary to completely remove any of the panels - just popping the fasteners was enough to get the downtubes loose.
Speaking of the downtubes, I wasn’t able to actually remove them. The downtube was exerting a lot of force on the lower console, and I didn’t feel comfortable trying to pry them out any further.
I ended up just swinging them out on each side enough so that I could get to the screws on the toggle panel.
I was able to feed the Mini Circuit and the (now attached) genie garage door opener into the space behind the toggle panel. All I did was release the clips on the trim panel and “hinge” it down - no need to remove the whole thing.
Anyway, the thing is working great now! Thanks for producing a nice clean product with such flexibility!

June 13, 2005: Feedback from Rainer

Just wanted to let you know that I installed the circuits in about an hour. They work great. I went the ‘take everything apart route’.
To figure out the alinements of the various items i did rely mostly on the photos.

June 12, 2005: Feedback from Gregg

I was able to install my circuit today and got it working right off the bat.
I did a variation of the “blind install” and the Murray method. Flipping down the panel didn’t give my hand as much room as it needed. My ‘05 mini has the storage area, however it was easy to maneuver out of the way.
I removed the screw in back and flipped the panel down and kept in pushed down. The side edges (near where your feet would be) will flex out and the whole thing will rotate in place. No need to remove it, just rotating it in place provided enough room for my hand. Next I moved the gear into 6th, so I’d have a bit more room.
I did this whole operation siting in the driver’s seat, so I could use my right hand. I found the switch was a little left of center and just above the switches, so I used my middle finger to push the retainer down and my index finger to flip over the latch.
Your instructions on the rest of the install were great. The LED’s flashed and I managed to not get the connector, to the toggle switches, flipped around.
[Thanks Gregg for the detailed description of manipulating the trim to get more space]

May 21, 2005: Feedback from Brian

Thanks for all your help. I got the circuit(s) installed this evening with a minimum of fuss, and it works great! Another satisfied customer.

May 18, 2005: Feedback from Kristin

I have just one word for the installation for the auto up circuit - WOW.
It was amazingly easy, I did it inbetween down pours and had it started and completely finished in about 13 minutes. I was at a disadvantage a) having acrylic nails on and b) never having really done anything to cars before.
Your directions were FABULOUS - especially the pictures!! They helped so much! I’m kicking myself for not doing this as soon as I got my car! I ended up using the blind method on my ‘04 and it was super easy.
Put myself upside down in my drivers seat and away I went! I could actually kind of see what I was doing and with the pictures to guide me - easy as pudding. Wow wow wow wow wow. That’s all I can say!
And thank you thank you thank you thank you …

May 11, 2005: Feedback from Jason

It arrived today and I just got done installing it. It works great- thanks again

May 8, 2005: Feedback from Rob

I received the circuit yesterday and installed it today - in about 10 minutes! Works great but I did have something weird happen. Before I programmed the
windows I had the door lock toggle held for probably 10 seconds, I guess, and after a few seconds my sunroof opened. I didn’t bother trying to recreate it
since I will not normally press the lock toggle like that. Anyway, thanks for the quick shipment and easy instructions.
[opening windows/sunroof is part of the "convenience" features - newer MINIs will do it both by holding the remote control unlock, or the toggle switch]

May 2, 2005: Feedback from BJ

I installed the MINI circuit this weekend. I tried for the blind install, however I was unable to cram either one of my hands behind the trim piece.
I ended up removing the downtubes and taking out the toggles. Once you get over the whole “pull sharply on your brand new dash” part, it goes smoothly. Anyway, auto-up windows are operational!

April 30, 2005: Feedback from Brian

I received the circuit today and did the install. Since I’ll be adding the ’05 utility tray next week when I get it from mail order, I decided to go ahead and pull the downtubes to make the install easier (and get familiar with how everything pieces together).
Soldering my garage door opener went very well (after the purchase of a Cold Heat soldering pen…works very well for the not-so-good soldering types like me).
After plugging the circuit in and following the instructions, everything worked well. The doors auto-up and the door lock/unlock toggle works the garage door without any problem.
However I find that my door “lock” no longer works. Fearing that I’ve got some pins mis-aligned, I removed it and plugged the toggle switches as normal without the circuit. Again, the door ‘lock’ feature didn’t work. Strange behavior soon followed as it started to work intermittently without any explanation.
It seemed if I pulled/held the toggle block a certain way it would start functioning. I checked the plugin, but it was seated firmly. Again, I tried the lock/unlock feature with the ‘lock’ only working intermittently.
I plugged the auto-up circuit back in, everything else went back to working (auto-up…garage door) but still no-joy on the door “lock” function.
I don’t believe it’s the switch itself, as it will open/close the garage door when toggled down (confirmed by a blink of the LED on the circuit).
Do you have any ideas to what could be going on? Has anyone else ever seen this behavior before?
[I replied to Brian that the MINIs locks are protected from over-use - if you try to lock the car too many times in a short period, the car will refuse to do it! And this is what the problem was for Brian:]
You were right, I think I just made it angry. After leaving it be for a while, it’s working normally.

April 28, 2005: Feedback from Jack

The circuit was fast and easy to install “blind” for nimble small hands. Having installed one in my 05MCS I would be able to do the next in one minute flat.
Hmmm, perhaps a good club meet project for the remaining few people who don’t have one.
If you are doing another iteration of the instructions, though, a picture or a description of the original orientation of the clip and tab on the panel would be wonderful.
Feeling for it blind, I was not able to determine for a full 15 seconds where the tab was and which way the lever went. As I crouched from the right seat with my hand behind the pillar, the tab was actually to the left and the lever flipped to the left.
Once that was accomplished, the only other challenge was another agonizing 10 seconds at the end, finding the correct spot on the panel to align the MINI connector before I pushed down onto it.
And then pushed and pushed and pushed a few times to ensure correct seating.

April 27, 2005: Feedback from Jungpil

Although I bought the auto-up circuit in January, I finally got myself to install it.
At first, I was quite worried because while I was getting an iPod adaptor installed at the dealership, the service people scratched my upper trim (they did replace it free of charge) and so I assumed that the removal of the trim and downtubes may be quite difficult.
Anyways, I successfully installed the auto-up circuit on my 2005 MCS.
I didn’t do it the “blind” way. But the whole process took less than 30 minutes. The instructions, upon first reading didn’t make much sense, but once I started, the instructions began to make sense. The auto-up works like a charm. Thanks for coming up with such a cool mod.

April 21, 2005: Feedback from Christopher

Install was flawless on my ‘05. I did it through the trap door and it was fairly easy. Works great and my friends all dig the way I open my garage with my lock switch.

April 17, 2005: Feedback from Keith

I put the circuit in Today and it was a breeze. So easy and straight forward,a work of art.

April 14, 2005: Feedback from Spiros in Greece

THE INSTALLATION WAS VERY EASY (THANK YOU FOR THE INSTRUCTIONS YOU HAVE SENT ME). YOUR CIRCUIT ALSO WORKS PERFECT. IT’ S WHAT I NEED.
[The first circuit I sent to Spiros never arrived ...
So we agreed a price for a second circuit, by (expensive) international registered mail - it still is not tracked but hopefully it draws attention and the delivery services are more careful! Anyway, it arrived]

March 12, 2005: Feedback from Robyn

Well [upgraded] circuit #2 went in today. We tried to be lazy and install it without removing the downtubes but after about half an hour of trying to get the connector plugged in properly (we kept missing a row of pins),
I broke down and pulled the downtubes. Should have done it in the first place. I’ve removed them so many times now I think I could do it in my sleep. Anyway, the circuit is in, the windows work, and so do both garage door openers. I am in heaven.

February 24, 2005: Feedback from Daniel

Got it yesterday. Installed it today. Took me about 15 minutes in a 05 using the no look method.
Works great and since I need to show my ID all the time getting to and from work, is well worth the money. Thanks for the great product.

February 1, 2005: Feedback from Sean

The circuit came in the mail today, and after reading the Update:’05 Minis page, the installation was incredibly easy. I could do it again in 10-12 minutes. And, of course, it works flawlessly.
The directions were excellent. I see no need to improve them. I will highly recommend your circuit to our friend and any other Mini owners we might encounter. Thanks so much.

January 31, 2005: Feedback from Brian

I received my auto up and track mode circuit and had it installed with no problems. I used the top pillar removal system just to be safe. Also because I painted the pillars and added a switch in the blank spot.
Did you know that if you are really careful that you can use a VERY sharp fine point knife to scratch off the paint and make your own sign for that switch? It looks white during the day and lights up orange just like the others at night.

January 31, 2005: Feedback from Jim

Well I installed the Auto Up Circuit last evening on my new 2005 Mini. Given I had other items being installed (Rear Fog lights, Aux Audio, Alarm system, Euro Parcel Tray) I removed the down tubes and pulled the switch panel.
Installation of your product was simple and straight forward. The photos helped a lot - for those of us which forget which way is UP. Anyway the circuit works flawlessly.
Thanks for a great engineering job and going the extra mile to create a finished product for the rest of us.

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]

Please do not hesitate to send folks my way who have questions (much as you connected me to Scott).
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

September 28, 2004: Feedback from Patrick

Thanks for the fast delivery … I installed the unit successfully in almost no time, let’s say 15 minutes. I found the guide a bit too detailed.
You could narrow it down to simply de installing the tubes to be able to remove the panel, where the unit is installed to.
First I wanted to do it blindly, but i could not manage that. Thanks again, everything works perfectly.

September 27, 2004: Feedback from Arnie

I received the Window/DSC module in less than 24 hours. I read your directions and then brought them me with for review and “setting” directions.
Went outside and chose to kneel outside the car on the passenger side and reach in. I have large hands that work pretty well because I play guitar all the time.
(I’m a righty) This approach seemed most comfortable to me. My hand fit right in. It was so easy, I was wondering if I did it right. The green light came on, on
the first try. I was just amazed, I have never done this procedure before and I was able to do it “blind” in 8 minutes from start to finish! I had to time it
because of all the different feedback on your site… For those that are afraid of the blind method, you will spend more time thinking about failure and reading
all the feedback than it will take to have success. I know, I was a little worried too, and for no reason at all! Super simple.
Thanks for the big smile on my face. I have already had 3 or 4 real occasions to use the window up (and several others, just to see how kewl
it is) and I always drive in track mode, (she stays in when the weather is bad). No more forgetting to turn it off every time you stop to get gas or turn
the car off for just a minute. AWESOME!!! Best interior mod yet, and I have done many other mods to the car… Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

September 27, 2004: Feedback from Art

I received the circuit Thursday and held onto it figuring I would need Saturday morning to install it. However, it only took me less than 15 minutes, including reading the detailed instructions first!
It works great and is a very nice mod. I did not remove the down tubes. The only problem I had was when I pushed the connector on the back of the toggle board, I must have either had it up or down a row.
I toggled the window up and nothing happened. When I toggled it down, the window went up! I just unplugged it and put it back on and everything went as it should, no damage was done.

September 27, 2004: Feedback from Gene

I got your package on Saturday (I was out-of-town), and installed it yesterday. It works like a charm, and your instructions were great.
Many thanks. I’ve been thinking about designing the DSC “off” mod for a while, but with your kit I didn’t have to.

September 25, 2004: Feedback from Chris

The part arrived here shortly after Ivan passed through the Panhandle of Florida. Today I did the installation of the Auto-up only circuit in about 15 mins with no problems …
I only have one constructive in put for your instructions. There was a little bit of confusion on my part when you used the reference “door toggle”. If you look at the toggle switches there are two icons that are “doors” (even though they operate the windows) and one icon that is a “lock”. The only reason I figured you were talking about the “door lock toggle” is the reference to the door unlocking/locking. I think it might be a little easier on other customers if you added - door “lock” toggle, or even use the lock icon in the directions.
Other than that everything went smooth and I didn’t remove the down tubes, but I am very used to doing “blind” work in convertible top installs.
Thanks again and I look forward to more of your products in the future,

September 25, 2004: Problem feedback (resolved) from Mike

[Early message] Fitted the circuit. Worked great with the window up, but when I connected it to the garage door opener it was inconsistent.
Best I can tell: If I momentarily connect the battery to the opener, then the circuit will work properly for a while after that …
I hooked up the circuit, it worked perfectly 5 or 6 times. I went in and ate dinner. Came out later to show my wife… nothing.
Yanked it out, checked my soldering, checked the connections, tried the battery to make sure that the opener worked by itself. Put it back in and it worked perfectly.
Came out this morning, nothing.
[After some discussion, Mike decided to modify the circuit from "powered" to "switched" - he has soldering skills - so I gave him clear instructions on what to modify]
Swapped ends with the - wire, de-soldered the jumper, un-jumped the switch on the opener, replaced the battery and presto! first try! …
To be honest I have no idea what the deal was with running it as a powered circuit. Theoretically there is no reason that it shouldn’t work… except of course for the reason that it didn’t work…
Thanks again. Even though these are all relatively minor things, it still makes for an ever so slightly more pleasant driving experience.
[Mike had a 3V opener and I had made a "3V powered" circuit for him - we have no idea why it did not work properly; now that he has modified to a "switched" version, all is well]

September 23, 2004: Problem feedback (un-resolved) from Jim

[Early message] Ian, trying to install the Auto Up device. I have the passenger side downtube off but cannot remove the driver side downtube as I don’t know how to remove the driver side knee bolster so I can access the downtube …
[I replied, suggesting a hard tug will release the clips, but] Ian, I have tugged, yanked and pulled trying to get the driver side knee bolster off to no avail. I’m reluctant to use a screwdriver. Any other suggestions?
[In reply, I sent a link to the MINI2 FAQ about removing the knee bolster and also suggested trying a blind install, but]
Ian, after two days of trying to get the driver side bolster off, without success, I am giving up. I will try to sell the unit to a good friend who may be able to get his bolster off.
If he is not interested, I will return the unit to you for a refund. I wish I could have installed the unit as I would have liked the convenience it offers.
[I have the euro shelf, not the bolster, and it does not block access to the downtube screws. So I have never had to release a knee bolster, but this is the first time I have heard of failure to install the circuit]

September 21, 2004: Feedback from David

Thank you for the circuit. It works just great.
I had a little trouble with the install. After a half hour of trying to do the blind method, I ended up taking the down tubes apart and removing the toggle switch panel. When I pulled on the fascia beside the air bag panel, all kinds of stuff happened. Two small round things popped off of the dash and a small brass clip landed in the floor. I figured out what the round things were,(surrounds from flasher & light adjuster for dash) and replaced with ease. However, I can’t figure out where the clip came from
[probably one of the clips that holds the fascia piece in place - there are lots so losing one is not a big issue]. Everything else went back together just fine.

September 20, 2004: Feedback from Peter

Received the chip this weekend and installed it in about 20 minutes on my ‘05. Most of the 20 minutes was spent looking for the correct Torx driver for the access panel.
Just a note though: 05’s may be different than earlier models, but I really didn’t see a need to remove that torx screw on the access panel.
Releasing those tabs and then flipping down the panel was an extremely easy install. Removing the downtubes would be extremely excessive, at least IMHO.
[A number of '05 owners have commented on the ease of installing the MINI circuit simply by bending down the flap below the toggle switch panel - I need to update my instructions!]

September 20, 2004: Feedback from Josh

I installed it yesterday. It was a breeze! Thanks so much. I love my auto-up windows.

September 19, 2004: Feedback from Ken

I received the circuit yesterday, so that was quick delivery! I had it connected, checked out, programmed and re-checked by 8PM last night. Then, I put everything back together, and it suddenly did not work anymore.
So, this AM, I went back out, took it all apart again, and found the connector from the circuit card back to the back of the toggles had come off. I re-connected, and made sure I pushed a little harder to join it, then put it back, and it’s fine. Works great! Thanks for the work developing this!
The instructions were good. As far as they went. I got my mini with the auxiliary gauges. They make it tougher to get in there to do the work. I saw some posted comments about not taking off the columns, with the aux gauges, you have to take as much off as possible to be able to reach around the extra wires, and up behind the toggles.
(I still think, tho, that the folks saying you don’t have to take off the columns have small hands and fingers.)

September 16, 2004: Feedback from Andy

I installed the circuit shortly after receiving it yesterday. Your instructions are excellent. It took about a half hour. I did not have to remove the pillars.
The only problem I had was that after I tidied up and put the trim piece back on, it didn’t work: the connector had fallen off the back of the toggle switch assembly.
I hadn’t pushed it in sufficiently. So just did it again but pushed it firmly in place. I assume that there is not a great chance that it will disconnect due to vibration.
[I have heard of the connector falling off a couple of times - once it is properly lined up to the toggle switch panel, a firm push is needed to clip it fully onto the pins;
but of course you have to be careful not to push too hard if it is not lined up properly! Perhaps a gentle pull is recommended after getting the connector on the toggle switch panel, to ensure it is tight]

September 16, 2004: Feedback from Jon

Circuit arrived today, 20 minutes later it was installed and functioning perfectly. Thank you. I didn’t have any problems with the instructions but then I’ve had the downtubes out before to install the toggle panel with the rear fog light switch so I was familiar with the process. I have the MINI auxiliary gauges which block access to the screw and trim piece that needs to be removed where the circuit ends up. I didn’t want to remove the gauges to do this and I was able to carefully plug the vehicle connector into the circuit after I slipped it under the climate controls (skinny fingers help here).
[this is the first time I have heard of someone installing through the tiny slot behind the toggle switch panel - that takes a lot of skill I think!]

The only odd thing I had happen was, when I got to Test #2 my door locks wouldn’t lock or unlock with the door toggle. I started the car and they worked fine. After tidying up they worked fine, key out, key in position 1 or 2. Very odd. The BCM or whatever controls the locks must have been a bit confused.
[I am guessing that Jon might have reached the "used-locks-too-many-times-in-a-short-time" protection, which the MINIs BC1 has to prevent solenoid damage!]

September 16, 2004: Feedback from Dave

Got it, put it in, works great. Thanks for a very specialized item. My only feedback on the installation instructions is
I can’t imagine how you can do it without removing the switch panel. I tried for about 15 minutes to unplug the OEM connector by reaching up under the panel, without success.

September 16, 2004: Feedback from Dennis in this CooperSpeed thread

AWESOMMMMMMME!
My windows are now auto-upping by double clicking them and my home garage door is upping and downing by holding the lock switch for 2 seconds.

September 13, 2004: Feedback from Marty

Received my Track-mode circuit with your outstanding instructions and everything went in and tested first time. The install (blind) and testing took only 20 minutes. I took a little longer to close everything up since I was looking for some Velcro I thought I had … Again, thanks for a great product, instructions, and prompt delivery.

September 7, 2004: Feedback from Stephan in Switzerland!

Thank you for the prompt delivery of the AutoUp circuit. I can only say: Top notch service!!! Even though it’s written in the documentation, I still wonder why it is only working with the ignition on…
[this is a result of the simple "plug and play" design - any other way would require extra wiring connections]
I still like it and am happy to have it.
Regards from a satisfied customer in Switzerland.

September 6, 2004: Feedback from Paul

I installed my circuit today - it’s working great!
I decided to install my new switch bank (for rear fogs) at the same time. I removed the downtubes and removed the old switchbank. Then I removed the access panel and installed the circuit. Test #1 went fine. I felt the green LED stayed on for less than 3 seconds, but I figured it was close enough. Then I installed the new switch panel - test #2 - green LED OK, but the a quick toggle up on the lock switch - and my passenger side window started going up! Hmmm - maybe my new switch panel is bad - get the old one out and reinstall that - repeat test #2 - all OK! So then I reinstalled the new switch panel and again repeated test #2 - and all was OK this time. I must have misaligned the connector the first time.
I was a little paranoid about the exposed circuit, so I wrapped it up in a diskette sleeve - and also used the velcro trick you mentioned in the docs.
All in all I spent about 45 minutes - but that’s mostly because I had trouble getting the center dash panel to reseat.
Now I’ve got to get my rear fogs programmed and then I’ll do the brake light mod (with a diode). After 2 years and 40K miles the car is slowly coming together!
Thanks again for a fantastic product!

September 2, 2004: Feedback from Rob

Received the circuit today. Took about 45 minutes to install & went without a problem. Your instructions are as good as the product! Great detail. Everything works as described!
Another satisfied customer….Thanks!

September 2, 2004: Feedback from Manny

I just received and installed your awesome circuit in about a 1/2 hr. Your instructions were perfect. I consider myself mechanically inclined. But you made me feel like a master Mechanic.
I don’t know how or when you came up with this circuit. But Thank you very much. I hope you come up with some other awesome idea’s.

September 1, 2004: Feedback from Matt in England!

IAN, JUST WANTED TO SAY A BIG THANKS FOR THE CIRCUITS-THEY ARRIVED ON FRIDAY-YOUR INSTRUCTIONS WERE VERY WELL WRITTEN AND I HAD NO PROBLEMS WHATSOEVER
[note that English cars have auto-up on the driver side; Matt wanted the passenger side to match]

August 31, 2004: Feedback from Lex

I got the circuit installed in my ’04 JCW MCS. It went in easily and works perfectly! Thanks for the clean design and clear instructions. I used the “blind” method and didn’t have any problems; it only took about 10 minutes.
Now that the weather is cooling down, it’s nice to motor around with the windows open, and when I get home, all I have to do is a couple of quick flicks and it’s all closed up. Everyone I’ve shown it to thinks it’s cool too.
Last weekend I had a co-driver in our local SCCA auto cross race who is retiring his own MCS from racing. He was pretty impressed with the “track mode” DSC circuit. Both of us at one time or another (usually at least once per race for me anyway) have forgotten to disable the DSC when we get the start line.
Nothing like running at full bore, trying not to hit a cone, set up for the next, and suddenly the throttle cuts… fumble fumble, whap, whap (two cones), ARG!!! It was nice not to have to worry about it and focus on the run.

August 30, 2004: Feedback from Guiseppe

Received it today and installed it, in less than 10 minutes. Everything works fine.

August 29, 2004: Feedback from Doug

I installed the first one today. Had to take the storage tray I had just put in out, but after that I was able to put it in blind. Took an hour ‘cuz I fought the instructions at times.
Oh, and since I didn’t have a big enough torx bit, I had to use the blind method. But, all said and done, it works great and the rains start coming late tonight and tomorrow. thanks bunches!

August 27, 2004: Feedback from Dean

I got the circuit today and installed it on my ‘05 in about 15min it works great! I removed the torx screw, but i really did not need to as it was reasonably each to just unlatch the trim piece and then just open in up to gain access to the connector.
I was able to get the connector back on by reaching in from the pass. side no problem.
Thanks again for a great product!

August 24, 2004: Feedback from Luke, posted as comment in this GBMINI weblog entry

I just installed the circuit in my ‘05 with no problem. Just unclip the utility box hole and fold it down. The torx screw can be removed if you need to fold it down more.
The hardest part was plugging in the ribbon cable. For that I had to get on the right floorwell and stick my right hand all the way up into the hole with the ribbon cable and use my left hand to hold down the utility box cover.
I found it best to place the circuit on the folded down utility box cover, to prevent scratching the left downtube and to hold it down with my left hand.
All thats left now is to buy from velcro to affix the circuit to the utility box cover to prevent rattles

August 24, 2004: Feedback from Michael

I finally installed the circuit last night. Except for missing the pins the first time, everything installed without a problem. The most difficult part was reaching into the access hole and disconnecting the plug attached to the toggle switch bank.
I decided that it would be safer to remove the downtube, but I couldn’t figure out how to get back of the center console out (which I assumed would have allowed for the removal of the downtube).
Anyways, thanks for a great product at a reasonable price. I’ll be another singing your praises.

August 16, 2004: Feedback from Wayne

I received the circuit a few months ago and installed it without too much hassle and wanted to give you my review. I love it! I don’t know why it can’t be included in the US cars but who cares, I have it now.

August 9, 2004: Feedback from Ada

Just wanted to let you know that I put the circuit in a few days ago. Very simple, using the “blind” technique. It works exactly as described - what a treat! Your instructions are excellent. What a great product!

August 2, 2004: Feedback from Agro on this NAM thread

I ordered my auto-up, switched 12v garage door opener, DSC board last week. It arrived either friday or saturday (I was out of town and got home yesterday afternoon).
Installed it last night in about 30 minutes using the “blind” method which included [time to] modify the garage door opener. Works like a champion!
Thanks for the work and the very reasonable pricing.

July 30, 2004: Feedback from Scott

I received it today and installed it too. Works perfect. The directions were easy to understand and no problems were encountered. Thanks a million

July 29, 2004: Feedback from Tom

I received my circuit yesterday and installed it this afternoon. It took me about 15 minutes since I had previous experience when I replaced my switch panel for my rear fog activation. The directions seemed plenty clear to me. Too bad you could not get a direct replacement connector to plug into the panel but the push-on seems to work OK.
I am really looking forward to having these features available. It seems like almost every time I autocross the car, I forget to disarm the DSC on at least one of my runs. It’s always a challenging exercise to try to disable DSC on the first corner! Thankfully, I won’t have that to worry about any more.

July 25, 2004: Feedback from OctaneGuy on this NAM thread

Well it’s been a long time since I received my circuit, but I finally got the courage to install it today. The instructions were full of warnings–”might blow a fuse”, “might have to replace the whole toggle switch”,….. Heh heh, and well, my friend who was going to help me has been way too busy and has been MIA for months, I did it.
Can you believe it? Took me all of 10 minutes. Everything went without a hitch! I didn’t even remove the downtubes. I removed the little cover behind the toggle switch, shined a mini flashlight inside and saw the plug, just like in Ian’s instructions. I got the plug removed–again, thanks to the instructions, and followed the instructions step by step.
The only things that didn’t exactly coincide was that my chip has a green LED instead of red, and my LED didn’t flash for 3 seconds when I first turned it on. Maybe it flashed 3 times, but seemed only for a second or so.
Other than that, everything was smooth!! I tested all the functions, and the double click Auto Ups work and so does the Track mode DSC.
So just wanted to say thanks to Ian, and wow, I feel good that it was simpler than I had imagined!

July 24, 2004: Feedback from Robert

I installed the unit just now. The install was easier than the directions. I pulled on the plastic trim under the speedo and it came off in one peice, exposing the tops of the dash posts. After that, I followed the insturctions. It works fine!

July 21, 2004: Feedback from Sherry

I finally installed my auto up windows module over the past weekend. It was easy to install and works great. Thanks!

July 13, 2004: Feedback from Sam

Installed mine today. Went perfectly and works great! Thanks for the very good instructions. We will be installing my buddy Phil’s circuit this weekend.

July 6, 2004: Feedback from DotBob on CooperSpeed

Woohoo! Installed and functioning perfectly.
DotBob wrote up his installation notes on CooperSpeed as well - a different perspective on MINI circuit installation

July 6, 2004: Feedback from Robert

Today, I decided to see if I could install the auto-up. It actually took me only 30 minutes. Works like a charm, whatever that means. I decided both windows would be the way as my kids are adults.
The only disorientation I had was with some of the terms used. I keep getting the door toggle confused with the lock toggle. I would have used “lock” toggle and “window” toggle.
I think that is because I’m a graphic designer and go by icons, so I might have used the actual icons themselves. Minor thing, my problem.
The only “scary” part was pushing the upper connector in, as I did it blind.
All in all very easy, or as you might say, Bloody Easy!
Thanks for the great service and convenience of auto up windows! Now if you could just fix my STUMBLE I’d be, as Emeril would say, Happy, Happy, Happy!

July 5, 2004: Feedback from Jeff

This gadget rocks…took me 30 seconds to solder the 12V leads and the short across the button of the genie board…took 6 hours to read and understand the instructions (not anybody’s fault but mine…i’m just anal like that) and almost no time at all to rip the insides out of my mcs and install the two circuits (yours and the genie, a rectangle from the cardboard shipping container you used as an insulator for the two boards sandwiched together and then wrapped in plastic from a baggie).
Works exactly as advertised and I am thrilled. The only thing that doesn’t thrill me is that I get to rip the whole thing apart again tomorrow because the new switch panel (rear fogs) should arrive from classic in the morning (wasn’t smart enough to synchronize the two orders and not patient enough to let your circuit sit waiting for the new switch).
THANKS A LOT FOR YOUR HELP!!!!

July 2, 2004: Feedback from Chris

Thanks very much for your prompt shipment of my MINI circuit. I installed your circuit a few days ago, and it works perfectly. Auto-Up was a snap, but with ZERO experience it took me a while to figure out where the [garage door opener] switched leads had to be connected
– on my garage door opener (a “Lift-Master”) I ended up being able to squeeze the leads onto the appropriate contacts without soldering (time will tell if the connection is secure enough but so far, so good). Eventually, after a considerable amount of up/down (and confused looks on neighbor’s faces) I figured out what went where.
I can’t imagine a more elegant garage door opening solution (I doubt even the upcoming universal opener for ‘05, if it can be retrofit at all, will be able to match your design in terms of seamless integration)
Many thanks for sharing your innovation.

June 29, 2004: Feedback from Jenn from SCMM, originally written on June 16

I just finished the install a little while ago. Ian, you are a genius! Thanks!
I had a hard time getting the connector off at first - that’s what took the longest amount of time. Initially I was attempting to remove the wrong connector. Once I figured out which one was the right one,
it took forever to get the ‘clip’ to slide over the ‘bump’. I was trying it from the wrong angle and it’s really hard to push something down while sliding something over what you’re pushing down without using your thumb.
Once I came at it from behind the tubes instead of from the front, and could use my thumb, I got it right quick!
The use of LEDs to check that your connections are correct is brilliant Ian! I got all the connections right the first time!

June 29, 2004: Feedback from Jim

Got the circuit yesterday and installed it in about 10mins. Works great! Thanks for the board and all of your work to design a really cool and useful accessory for the MINI!!!

June 28, 2004: Feedback from James

I received the auto up circuit on Friday afternoon. Saturday morning I installed the circuit in about twenty minutes using the blind install instructions. Then I took a ride around the neighborhood testing out the windows, looking silly putting the windows up and down.
It was so easy to install. The instructions were simple to understand and the parts really are made to go together so it’s difficult to mess up. I think this was as easy to install as the parcel shelf.

Thanks for a well made product!

June 26, 2004: Feedback from Andrew

I received the circuit on Thursday, installed it today (Saturday). Works great! I’m going to save hooking up the garage door circut for another day.
The manual is almost also great! I found trying to fit my fingers in behind the trim piece hopeless, so I went to the ‘remove the downtubes route’ - Steps 8 and 9. One thing your directions there leave out is how to remove the knee bolster on the driver side to access the top torx screw on the downtube.
How to do that is described with a photo on the MINI2 website under the DIY/FAQ section on “How to install aux cable in panel below toggle switches” - which I accomplished at the same time as installing your circuit. You might want to copy the ‘knee bolster’ section from that, or provide a brief description - it was easy once I knew how to do it.

You need a catchy name for your great little product - “the circuit” just doesn’t do it justice.

Again, it works great, and I couldn’t be happier. Many thanks!

June 28, 2004: Feedback from Theo on this NAM thread

I bought Ian’s circuit with both the Auto-Up and the 9-volt flying lead for a attaching a user-supplied garage door opener. It took me less than a hour to install (I took off the down-tubes and toggle panel) and the result is, well…simply brilliant!
Two quick upward presses of the window toggle are all that is needed to shut-out the rain when pulling away from the toll both.
But the next best part is arriving home and opening the garage door with a momentary downward press of the door lock toggle.
Cheers to Ian for making MINI Motoring even more enjoyable!

June 26, 2004: Feedback from (another) Scott

[...] Yippee!!!!
I got it this afternoon, 45 mins later, garage door module is soldered, connected, module is mounted, test 1 & test 2 are completed, Mini is buttoned back up, and never had to take off the down tubes!!!

June 25, 2004: Feedback from Rich

I received the circuit yesterday afternoon and installed it last night (too excited to wait). I thought there was something wrong with the circuit after I installed it because the LED wouldn’t light up.
However it was just … not turning the key all the way to position 2. Works great, simple install. I removed the down-tubes and switchbank to install it, I have too much junk back there (navigation speaker,
cell phone speaker, nav screen, wires, etc…), besides I think it’s easier then doing it blind. Anyway, great product, keep up the good work.

June 25, 2004: Feedback from Scott

Installed my Auto-Up with 12V garage door opener tonight. 1/2 hour including soldering. Works like a champ. It’s a great circuit you designed.
The install is simple - first 2 I did were Peter and Shoe in the parking lot at T&C [MINIsOnTop]. Took me less than 5 minutes for those.
If you have people from the NJ area that want them but are concerned about installation, send them my way. I’ll gladly install them.

June 20, 2004: Yet more feedback from Rob Carver

Well, we popped the Auto-up Circuit into Sean’s “S” today, and this time we didn’t remove the down tubes like I did on my Cooper. (It got here pretty damn fast - thanks for expediting!)
I have a better idea what’s behind the switch-panel, now, so we elected to try the “blind” method. Sean also doesn’t have any extra wiring from an alarm system, so it was straightforward and easy.
Done in just minutes, and worked perfectly from the get-go! Once again, your excellent product and instructions made it easy, and as expected, your first-class design works as advertised.
On a side note, I’ve run out of MINIs to add this circuit to, but if I do get another one, I’ll be callin’ you!
[Rob, you might soon have installed as many circuits as me!]

June 20, 2004: Feedback from Jim

Just wanted to let you know that the installation was quite easy. The only thing that had me baffled was how to gain access to to upper left downtube screw.
Then I gave the top of the knee bolster a yank,and TA-DA!! Set-up also went off without a hitch. Thanks so much!!

June 19, 2004: Feedback from Tony

Yesterday, I attempted to install the module by just undoing the little access panel and poking around with my fingers. It took about 15 minutes to figure out the “release bump” and then to be able to depress it and slide the catch down and remove the old plug.
Then next steps were easy — but Test 2 got me worried. It was the part about test to make sure things were ok by unlocking the doors. Well, my doors were already unlocked so nothing happened when I flipped the door switch up. Is there some better test than this? But I figured things were ok, so I attempted to plug the new plug back up inside the access panel. I wouldn’t make a good doctor.
I finally got it back in, but the driver window wouldn’t go up or down and the door would not unlock. So I unassembled everything and tried to reinstall the old plug. Wouldn’t go on easily so I figured I had bent a pin or two. Spent a restless night.
Took the bars off using steps 8-10 and removed the switch panel and sure enough, two pins were slightly bent. I’m glad I didn’t try to force anything. re-aligned the pins and put it all together without any problems. Checked all my fuses (isn’t there a special Brit name for fuses?) and didn’t find any blown ones.
It works great!!! and I love it.
But I would suggest that you encourage people to remove the [downtubes and] switch panel. It is so easy and would have saved me a heart attack and a sleepless night. Only a blind piano player could work the up-the-access-hatch trick [or me!].
But all’s well that ends well, as they say. Thanks again!!

June 18, 2004: Feedback from Josh

Wow! That was a very easy install for such a useful mod! Thank you!
The instructions you sent were very easy to follow, and the pictures were great. The install took from start to finish (with removing the downtubes) about a half hour.
A lot of the problem was the fact that I already had the aux port installed in that panel under the console, so had to mess with the wire along with the circuit card when putting everything back together. It works great though!

June 17, 2004: Feedback from Cynthia

I just received my auto up circuit yesterday and I LOVE it! Great instructions too. After I installed it I must have put the windows up and down 10+ times!

June 8, 2004: Feedback from Mark in GERMANY

Just taking the time out to let you know that after 10 mins. installation time the unit works perfectly. This is, of course, excellent news …
[The "MINI circuit" goes international! Although actually there are already circuits in Canada - how about intercontinental?]

June 8, 2004: Feedback from Paul

I installed your circuit on my wife’s MCS. Her circuit was just for windows. Your product and directions are excellent. I elected to remove the switch panel. I chose the option to remove the down tubes by partial removal of the dash center fascia.
I’ve had previous experience with the center console and believe it’s too easy to break something.
The only suggestion I have that might improve your instructions is, after unplugging the original connector from the switch panel, to pull the wire bundle/connector through the opening where the panel fits BEFORE connecting it to the MINI Circuit.
I didn’t do that and had to disassemble everything, reconnect the original plug to the MINI Circuit, run the ribbon wire and new connector through the panel opening and reconnect that to the switch panel.
Other than that little foible, the instructions were clear and the pictures enormously helpful. Now I want a MINI Circuit of my very own with the track option.

[thanks Paul - that is a good point for anyone doing the install by removing the downtubes and toggle switch panel]

June 4, 2004: Feedback from Mark

I got the circuit 2 weeks ago (about 3 days after you sent it) and was just tonight able to get it in. Thanks for the color instructions - clear, detailed, and to the point.
The circuit board is a work of art and works super. Having worked with printed circuits many years ago, I can attest to the superb build quality. I commend you for your inspiration, excellent design, and follow-through.
Thanks for a great product. It was a pleasure doing business with you.
[thanks Mark - many years of this type of design have given me circuit layout skills as well as software skills]

June 2, 2004: Feedback from Tracy

The circuit was easy to install and the full-color instructions were great to have on hand! I coincidentally had the downtubes already out for the stereo install, so it was a piece of cake to pull the toggle assembly out for the non-blind install.
It was even simpler to activate the new program/circuit and I am LOVING my new auto-up window feature. Thank you sooo much!

May 28, 2004: Feedback from Chris

Just a quick note of thanks. I finally got around to installing the auto-up module this weekend. It took all of 10 minutes! What a wonderful addition to my MCS. Thank you for developing this fine product!

May 16, 2004: Feedback from Keith

I installed it yesterday and everything was smooth and painless, I had a little difficulty connecting back into the switch panel as I was doing it blind. Everything works flawlessly.
Thank you so much for designing this circuit! What a convenience not to have to hold the window switches. And I love having the garage door opener integrated to the car now.
I’m lovin’ it and thought you should know your efforts are greatly appreciated.

May 13, 2004: Feedback from Dave

Ian, I received the circuit yesterday and installed it. It works exactly as advertised. I love it. Thanks.

May 12, 2004: Feedback from Doug

Received today-thanks. Install took about 1 hr. Best way is to remove down-tubes &switch panel - after that , a piece of cake. Auto-up&dsc disable work perfectly. Thanks again, doug

May 12, 2004: Feedback from Peter

Received and installed the circuit yesterday using Gavin’s Velcro system. Drove to Albany and back today and it worked like a charm. Thanks for putting together this great little circuit for the rest of us Mini owners.

May 10, 2004: Feedback from John

Hi. I got the circuit the other day … I finally took time this morning to install it. It went in nicely, thanks to your instructions and pictures.
I went ahead and removed the downtubes and the switch panel so I could see what I was doing back there. I plugged the connector into the new board and turned the ingition on and got the LED light.
But I had to undo it to reroute it and when I re-plugged it in, the LED didn’t light. I figured it only lit the first time, and moved on. [if the car ignition stayed on the circuit would still be powered and the LED would not light again]
It did make me double and triple check the pics to make certain I had it plugged in the correct way though. I put it all back together before reading the part about watching for the LED flicker, so didn’t get to see if that was there or not. Anyways, it works just fine.
I did notice that when I held the lock button up for 5 seconds to enable the track mode DSC, that the windows then went auto down! [this is a feature of newer MINIs, unrelated to the circuit]
Maybe it was after I had enabled the dsc. But it is doing it now. If I hold the lock button up 5 seconds, the windows auto open. I don’t see it as a problem, as I don’t imagine I will be holding the lock button up for that long. Just a curiousity.
All in all, I am very pleased with the whole thing.

May 8, 2004: Feedback from Lance

I received my circuit yesterday and installed it this morning. It took me longer to gather all the stuff I wanted handy, than it did to install the circuit.
It took me about 20 minutes to install.
First thing I want to say is “You’re a Genius”. I didn’t really realize how much time you are forced to spend holding the switches to get the windows closed, until I didn’t have to do it any more.
Your circuit makes the windows work the way that BMW should have made it. Your circuit is GREAT, I loved it from the first time I let it put the window up.

I did the install only removing the access panel, and it was a snap thanks to your great directions. I did use a small mirror and a flashlight so I could see what I was working with behind the panel.
This helped me understand how I needed to proceed.

May 7, 2004: Feedback from Rich on this MINI2 thread

I have to say first “You are the Man!”.
I installed the module this afternoon and all went well thanks to the fine instructions. My install was a bit more complicated as I had the control unit for my phone up behind that panel and I had to play with that a bit to get everything to fit back in. It took about 45 minutes from start to finish.
In answer to how tough the install is. Anyone (man or women) should have no problem with this if they have a little bit of experience working blind with connectors under a dash or behind a panel. The connector to the switch panel is unlike any I’ve seen before and if I didn’t have a picture I would have never gotten it out with out removing the downtubes and the panel.
If you have never done anything like this before I would suggest you budget more time and use the baroque method of r