Suspension - Front End Clicking/Creaking on Bumps/Turns

Suspension - Front End Clicking/Creaking on Bumps/Turns

SI M 31 01 05

Front Axle

June 2005

Technical Service

This Service Information bulletin supersedes Service Measure M31 200 05 dated April 2005.

SUBJECT

Front End Clicking or Creaking Noise

MODEL

R50 (Cooper)

R52 (Convertible)

R53 (Cooper S)

SITUATION

Clicking or creaking noise may be heard coming from the vehicle front end when turning the steering wheel or when driving over bumps.

CAUSE

The plate of front strut mount (upper guide support) may be bent from an impact and over time has caused the rubber bushing to crack.

CORRECTION

Confirm the cause of the noise by removing the upper strut mount cap to see if there is a crack in the rubber bushing.

PROCEDURE

1. Check for any evidence of previous impacts from external force to the vehicle.

2. Verify that the upper strut dome body has not been damaged.

3. Do not replace the whole strut assembly.

4. Replace only the strut mount per Repair Instructions RA 33 31 031.

5. Damage cause by something other than a defect in material or workmanship will not be covered under the terms of the New Vehicle Limited

Warranty.

2002-2006 Mini Cooper (R50) L4-1.6L (W10) Page 150