No, there is a lot of hardware behind the panel that is different between the auto and manual a/c. The manual system is a cable-based system while the auto is not. A lot of wiring and sensors are different as well.

It looks like you have done all the basic electrical checks that we would have recommended.

Here is a 'possible' cause: All lighting in the dash is controlled by the Body Control Module (BCM). We have seen cases where strange electrical gremlins (dash, exterior lights, windows, etc.) were corrected by a software re-load onto the BCM - it seems the software does occasionally get corrupted. This may require a trip to the MINI service facility.

And then again, it could be something completely different....

When you say 'will not do anything' - are you saying is it not functioning aside from the lights not working?

If you have the automatic a/c control, there is a separate controller for the a/c, which connects to the Body Control Module (BCM) located in the passenger side kick panel.

If you have the manual a/c control, it is controlled by the BCM. located in the passenger side kick panel.

Have you checked the connector at the BCM?

I have got a 2004 Mini Cooper base model 65000 miles heater control panel will not lite up or do anything.i have changed it out with two other used ones and same thing .i have checked all fuses all connections for corrosion and find nothing .help.