I have a 2012 Cooper hardtop. In June of last year I began having starting issues. If the car sits for a couple of days, it does not start easily. I have had it into the dealer's twice, but they are unable to recreate the problem. This is what happens:

Insert key. Electrical display and lights all come on normally. I put my foot on the brake pedal and hit the start button. Nothing happens. One noticeable thing is that the brake pedal is as hard as a rock, there is no play at all. Normally when I start the car, the pedal has some play to it, feels spongy. It will eventually start. I have to push down on the brake pedal really hard in order to get it started.

This does not happen all the time, usually when the car sits for a number of days. Also, if I don't drive it for about 2 days, the brake pedal becomes hard, but the car starts.

Any suggestions? I'd really like to get this issue resolved, especially as the car is still under warranty.

Thanks
Lois