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
