CMs "14


Is it normal to hear (for a new car) like a sound of plastic when you are steering it? I called the dealer and they said it could be just part of the break in period...
It is not annoying but I’m just making sure it is not scratching the inside or something is misaligned... it just isn’t silent steering it sideways more while making turns... is this normal?

Also the plastic black part where the fob insert and the "start on/off is located somehow moves a bit... like the plastic part when you push it somehow it moves. Is this normal?
I am talking about the black plastic where the fob and start on/off button is located. I can somehow put pressure and it will move like an inch or something.


Thank you!

 

There's no "break in period" for a steering wheel. Sounds like your dealership is dodging you on this. After a collision I was in with my 2010 S, in which the steering wheel air bag deployed, the steering wheel had to be replaced. When I picked it up, the steering wheel seemed fine, except when I made turns. A ratchety, clicking sound occurred as the steering wheel revolved back up to the normal position. Turns out, the air bag was improperly installed in the steering wheel assembly at the manufacturer, so another one had to be ordered and installed. Perhaps this is the case with yours. Definitely take it in. Also, the fob slot may need some attention from the dealer, too. I've had two MINIs (2010 S and 2013 JCW) but never had the problem you've described. I hope this helps.

 

Pls see and listen to it guys. I surely hope this is normal. i mean it works normal.. it is just a little loose when i sort of pull it... no biggie unless that can be bad in the long run or a sign of defect.

Thanks

 

Thanks for your advice..

 

That's NOT normal (no MINI marketing pun intended). We have two 2013 Countrymans (one S and one not) and neither one has that problem. It looks like the panel is not properly secured to the dash board. I would have the dealership fix it. If they tell you it's normal, tell them you want to see other Countrymans on the lot for comparison. Don't take their BS answers.

Cheers and Good luck.

 

Oh my... Now I am little worried.
I was trying to just ignore it since i dont touch it anyway and it doesnt move unless I try to do that.

could it have naything to do with the center console? i did have a backup camera installed and a module was safely inserted inside the console by a tech and they told me it was safely inserted. I know the center console has its own opening, but the dash is beside it....... i dont know if that "start button fob entry" had to be moved/touched by the tech to actually open the center console to insert the module..

 

If I were a betting man...

 

My 2011 mcs is in the dealership here in Ft Myers right now due to a loud clicking noise in the steering column when I turn the wheel. It was diagnosed as "an internal failure of SZL coil windings" . Apparently it is some kind of computer as they had to special order the part, now they have to reflash the software in the car. That kind of makes me nervous as it has the JCW upgrade in it. I should get it back today. Anybody know what the the "SZL" is?

 

I now know what was causing the clicking sound in the steering wheel hub. The SZL module that, among other things, reads the steering wheel angle for the stability control system, has what they call a clock spring. That spring was broken and that is what was making the clicking sound when the wheel was turned. Don't know, but perhaps the broken spring could cause a mis- application of the stability control system. I'm glad I didn't ignore it. Perhaps the original OP that is also hearing that noise should suggest to his dealer to check the SZL module clock spring. Good work Ft Myers Mini!!