I purchased a Mimi Cooper 2003 5 speed. I need help with the following: When I back down to a low speed in 3rd I hear a continuous cluncking and the slower the louder, in 2nd not as much, 1st none and 4th louder than third, is this normal? Thanks, ronstoys1

 

Clunking from where, exactly? Front or rear?

My first gut feeling is to have the CV-Joints checked in the front axles.

 

Sorry, it's from the front.

 

Is it a loud thud or a tick or somewhere in between?
It may be as minor as a loose header gasket.
When this happens, push in the clutch. Does it go away?

 

Cliffyb.....Yes it goes away when I put in the clutch. Ron

 

Cliffyb.. the noise is between a tick and a thud and goes away when you put in the clutch. I also reved up the engine with the clutch in and no noise. Thanks getting back as I can use the help. Ron