I have had from brand new a 2008 Mini Clubman. The car only has 34.5K miles. I took the car in for routine maintenance last week and they dealership reported that both of the front upper strut mounts are split. I have read up on this topic and I have done a careful visual inspection of the car. I see no bulges, splits, etc. Both sides look fine. The only evidence of a problem is that the front run-flats are quite worn after only 15k miles. (I have previously replaced all four run-flat tires at around 20k miles.)

My question is, is there any other tests or indicators that these strut mounts are actually split? I am no novice with automobiles and could easily replace the mounts myself, however, I don't see a problem.

Thanks.

dnr

 

Look from the top very close from the center protection cap to the edge of the molding. Pop off the center protection cap and see if there is hairline cracks, between the rubber and metal. Also your alignment will be off, car will sometime sit lower a bit and you will notice that cupping on the front wheels. Check right near the center bearing and the bonded rubber, if you cannot see the bulged.

Front Strut Mount - Priced Each Part # 31306772749

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/31306772749/



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The little protection cap. Part # 31311139453

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/31311139453/ES49917/





I have not heard of them failing with that low of mileage but I guess its possible.

 

In looking more carefully at the car and photographing the strut mounts, I can see that both of them are indeed cracked. Image attached.

Thank you for your help.

 

Yep, you are welcome.

That's what I was guessing, hairline crack at the edge. Glad you found them, otherwise it might have been another suspension issue.