Experiencing an odd noise coming from behind the dash after startup on my 16 JCW. It’s happening after starting the car (both cold and warm) and idling. Once I put the car into reverse or drive, the noise ceases. It happens with or without the HVAC on, so thinking that eliminates a blower issue.

My initial thought is Motor Mounts. The car does make a louder than usual banging noise as it’s starting up however once I’m in drive, there’s no vibration or noise.

Any input is much appreciated!

Link to a video of the noise.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/taew1jbnpa...%20PM.mov?dl=0

Any thoughts?

 

Does it sound like a helicopter? Mine does that too. I’ve had motor mounts changed under warranty and it still didn’t fix it. It happens often but not all the time. I’ve had the dealer try to diagnose it multiple times. It’s just a quirk of the f56.

 

Yes!! It sounded like a helicopter. The noise would fade in and out here and there, but was really noticeable until I’d put the car in gear.

I had the car at my local Mini dealer last week and explained the issue to them. They immediately fired back with a solution of new upper motor mounts, which were in stock and they were able to install them right then and there. I was limited on time so I brought the car in the next day and left it with them while I traveled out of town for a few days. When I returned home and picked up the car everything seemed fine, no noise or anything, until later that night when the same damn noise reappeared. The next day I returned to Mini, they put it up on the lift and immediately noticed that the bolt connecting the lower motor mount was completely loose, like barely holding onto the end of the thread loose. They tightened it, I drove away and the rest is history. Car feels to idle a lot smoother and no more harshness or rattle when starting the car, other then the kickback from the exhaust of course.

Hope this helps! Good Luck!

 

Hmmm...I’ll have them check mine next time it’s on the lift! Thanks!