So about 1 out of 3 times upon starting off in first, there's a slight grinding noise as I'm moving forward and slowly releasing the clutch. That's the first strange noise, the second is a series of loud sounds, almost like someones hitting something with a rubber mallet when I park and shut the car off- is this the e-brake engaging or something? Any idea on either of these noises? Also what's the average life of the factory clutch? I have about 40k on my mini and that noise is the first indication that something might be wrong. Thanks for the help.

 

Re #1, we don't have an S but the original clutch is still kind of OK in our 2008 at almost 70k miles, but I've certainly heard of plenty of clutches dying long before that.

#2 sounds like the burping sounds the gas tank makes when the EVAP system is equalizing pressure. I think I've also heard it when removing the gas cap after taking a long drive.

 

I just had to replace my clutch at 46,000 miles.

 

Had a similar noise you mention in #1, although obviously cant say its definately the same without hearing it (get a video/sound clip of it perhaps ?) but mine had a 'loose flywheel' which caused a horrid grinding /groan noise but only when pulling out from standstill - resulted in a new clutch and flywheel, thankfully done under warranty

 

Ah I know I'm out of the factory 36k mile warranty but I did buy the extended warranty from the dealer, though I don't think it covers the clutch. Blast! Hopefully I've still got many more miles on it, I really can't afford the 500 bucks for a clutch right now.

 

Factory warranty is 50K, so you might be in luck. It seems they don't like to cover clutches, but if you keep insisting you actually know how to drive properly and couldn't have worn it out so soon etc, they might at least partly cover it. Look up the thread where AXO just went through this.

PS Clutches are way more like $1500 unless you're doing it yourself.

 

Free Maintenance Plan (i.e. oil changes, wiper blades, brake pads) is 36K miles or three years

Warranty is 50K or 4 years

http://www.miniusa.com/#/learn/MotoringService-m

 

Ah yah mine's out since it's more than 4 years old, ended in July.