Hello All,

I am a new MINI owner and not very mechanically minded so please excuse the obscene ignorance I display when asking questions. I just got a 2012 Countryman S Turbo (manual) from a dealership. They were not very knowledgeable about the vehicle and I had to take it back to them to address a few things after I purchased it. It was just a trade-in they were flipping and the salesman didn't even know what some of the warning lights on the dash were until I looked it up and took it back for them to address. Whatever, its fine now and I'm moving on.

It's been modified by the previous owner and I'm trying to identify some things. One thing I'd like to address is the cabin noise from the exhaust. There's a very substantial low-frequency drone past 2k rpm when the pedal is down and its not something I'm willing to live with long term.

Firstly I'm hoping to identify the type of exhaust that's on the vehicle right now - see attached pictures.

Secondly, I'm looking for recommendations reduce the drone in the cabin by:
1) replace the entire exhaust system
2) replace the muffler, or
3) get some sound dampening material in the rear of the cabin or elsewhere to address the noise. I also read something about using some rubber or other form of connection for attaching the exhaust to the frame to cut down on sound transfer.

If this post is considered "repair related" please advise on where to relocate it. Thank you for all the help and advice!

 

I have a 2012 MC S all4 and my exhaust looks quite different. I’ve attached a photo for you. Unfortunately I’ve only had the car for 5 months and I bought it used, so I’m unsure of its original vs modified parts.

 

Looks like you have a "Custom" muffler delete! Replacing an OEM exhaust / muffler will do wonders for the drone you're experiencing.