After just four months, one oil change, snow tires and only about 4k (from 80k to 84k) miles my 2004 MCS doesn't "whine" like it did just a few months ago. The only two changes (other then oil) were going from 17 stocks with RF tires to 15 Slipstream Rota's with snow tires on it and Mid 70's/80's temps to typical winter temps here in Maine. Power seams okay, just doesn't have the WHINE like she seamed as she did before.

Any suggestions to make sure my baby is okay and running as it should? Oh, and their is NO warning/engine lights on so it seams as though the car seams like all is okay.

Thanks gang.

 

Are you basing the change in sound on your speed or indicated rpms?

 

Dirty air filter?

 

Do you drive around with the windows down when it's warm out? I can't hear the whine from the supercharger as much in the winter months because it's cold out, the windows are up, and the heater is on.

In the summer...the windows are down, the sunroof is open, and the wine is much more noticeable.

If your car is running fine, I doubt there is anything wrong with it.

 

During cool weather, enjoy the nice performance, and lack of heat soak....
All should be fine i think....
As saide above, it is likely the result of windows/vents etc all being closed.
If you were also complaing about being slower than a fiat500.....then you might have an issue...

 

Its the cooler air, I notice that a lot up here in Colorado. I could hear it screaming like a banchee in the summer but, once the temps go below 50 even with the windows down it seems quieter.

 

Less load on it from the tires is also possible, I am betting the 15s are lighter then the 17s

 

Both really ... all round driving. Especially at WOT.

To be honest I haven't checked in a while ... but I will first thing in the AM.

It's the sound inside the car ... and even drove one night with 28 degree weather out and windows down just to check.

Oh yes .... LOVE the "Pep in her step" due to Maine cold winter air.

 

I'm hoping so .... just worried and with the closest Mini dealership three states away I slightly panic a little.

I know the 15 inch rota's are a LOT lighter then stock (coming in at just over 12lbs a piece) but adding the winter tires I'm not sure how heafty it makes it all.

Thanks to all for the insight. That's why I come to this board, the wealth of knowledge.

 

just for reference i have a 05mcs with 61k on it.stock intake and i never hear my supercharger and it's been like that ever since i had it at 20k. i really have to hammer it hard to hear it. no performance issues.i need a intake one of these days!

 

Okay so I did some digging (44 degree's out today, NOT 15 as it has been) and the air filter was toast and nasty. NO ONE in this area for basic or chain stores carries filters of any type to fit the Mini so I am going to order one. Second off I am just going to break down and buy a full intake system since I need the filter anyways. Youtube video's show the before and after sounds with an intake and from what I can get from them, the intake somehow allows more sound to come through.

Thanks again gang for helping ... this once again is why I really dig NAM.

 

Yeah the stock airbox works as a pretty good muffler. The ALTA intake with the silicone hose seems to be the loudest out of all the aftermarket ones, without going to one that's custom built.

 

Mini is creaping northward...
There is now a dealer in bedford nh (basicly manchester near the airport), and the one in Peabody ma....so depending on where you are in me, i bet its not that bad...
Bet the napa warehouse/store in scarbrough by ext 42/44 has them in stock....but stockers are never more than 2-3 days away by standard shipping...
The stock filter on the s does get gunked up....the intake snorkel by the radiator seems to help draw in moisture...i was amazed at how nad mine was when i put my cai in...

 

I've also found found that as the novelty of S/C whine wears off you will hear it less. I barely notice the unsilenced Lysholm in my rabbit let alone my Mini.