My R53 (2004 Cooper S, ~ 78K miles) recently developed a whirring sound/vibration) which is loudest between 20 and 50 MPH. It is not related to RPM (or engine) in that it is still there when the clutch is disengaged and coasting. About 3000 miles ago I put on F&R drilled/slotted brake rotors and g-Force Goodrich tires, but they've not been an issue. Any thoughts ?

 

How soon after the new tires were installed did the problem occur? I know when I would get about 12,000 miles on my run-flats I had the issue. The sound only got louder as I put more miles on the tires. The issue went away when I ditched the run-flats (at the 27,000 mile point). I now have 55,000 miles on the MINI and have not had the problem recur.

 

Which model of G-Force tires did you install. I have had various sets of tires get louder over time. For example, the KDW2 got louder as they wore. I also think that rear negative camber contributes to the noise. Is your car lowered with large amount of rear negative camber (> -2 degrees)?

 

These are the second set of g-force T/A KDW I've had on the car. They're not run-flats (I live dangerously, I know). The first set were fine, other than I burned them up on track and field. This is the second set and only ~ 3K. I read another thread that perhaps a heat shield is rubbing against the drive shaft? Another suggested a wheel hub. Now that I think of it, I did hear a speed linked clicking just after I had the tires mounted. I wonder if soemthing happened in the shop.

 

Don't forget to check the pulley tensioner and the idler pulley.

 

My mechanic identified bad wheel bearings. Thanks to everybody for great ideas. This was my first time using this forum and I appreciate the feedback. If my tool man is mistaken (which is unlikely), I'll be back in a few days with a deeper mystery to solve. Thanks

 

Glad you found the problem. I'm thinking of doing an inspection on my wheel bearings soon and repacking them.