A/C - Whistling Noise From Dash Above 50 MPH

A/C - Whistling Noise From Dash Above 50 MPH

SI M64 01 04

Heating and Air Conditioning

February 2006

Technical Service

This Service Information bulletin supersedes Advanced SI M64 01 04 dated April 2002-2006.

[NEW] designates changes to this revision

SUBJECT

Whistling at Speeds of Over 50 MPH from the Heater

MODEL

R50 (Cooper) from October 19, 2002 production

R53 (Cooper S) from October 19, 2002 production

2002-2006 Mini Cooper (R50) L4-1.6L (W10) Page 184

SITUATION

Whistling noises are heard from the right-hand side dashboard area at speeds over 50 mph (80 km/h). The noise is similar in volume to that of the

maximum blower speed. This noise disappears if the right side fresh air intake grille in the wind deflector is removed. If the entire wind deflector is

removed, the noise is still present, but its volume is reduced.

CAUSE

The fresh air/recirculated air flap on the heater is suspected as being insufficiently rigid when closed, i.e., in the fresh-air mode.

^ With the introduction of the new style fresh air/recirculated air flap (from October 19, 2002), a whistle noise may occur because the new

flap is insufficiently rigid when closed causing a slight air leak by the flap. The new style and old style flaps are shown on the left.

PROCEDURE

1. Access the fresh air/recirculated air flap on the right side of the vehicle behind the glove box. Refer to repair manual instructions RA 51 16

360.

2. Affix a foam strip (160 mm long, 9 mm wide and 5 mm thick), to the upper edge (hinged side) of the open fresh air/recirculated air flap such

that the foam strip forms a seal with the housing when the flap is closed. The foam strip may need to be trimmed slightly to ensure a proper fit.

3. Close the flap and ensure that the foam strip seals properly.

PARTS INFORMATION

2002-2006 Mini Cooper (R50) L4-1.6L (W10) Page 185

[NEW] WARRANTY INFORMATION

Covered under the terms of the MINI New Vehicle Limited Warranty.