I've got a really creaky roof... it started a few thousand miles ago (now just over 28K) and it seems worse when it's cold out. It's also worse when the body tries to flex, like when going over a bump or a dip at an angle... I don't have a sunroof. Jan '03 build date.

Anyone else notice this? Any ideas if it can be fixed?

 

you sure it's not your swaybar bushings creaking?

 

I have no idea! It never occured to me... how would I check that? Can anythig be done about it if that's the problem?

It really sounds like the noise is coming from the top of the pillars; if it's swaybar bushings, could the sound travel up the body to give the illusion of the roof creaking?

 

The Mini is extremely rigid so I doubt your roof is flexing enough to creak -- especially since you don't have a sunroof.

I agree that it's probably your suspension. They'll probably end up lubricating or replacing some bushings under warranty.

 

Buddy, if your solid roof is creaking, then you have some SERIOUS STRUCTURAL PROBLEMS.
I have 2 MINIs with solid roofs ('02 Cooper CVT, 24K miles and '04 MCS, 10.6K miles) and absolutely no problems.

It cracks me up when people post in here that their car's body is "Flexing" and whatnot. I don't buy it. One thing is absolutely solid about these cars is the body construction and build quality. A car made with heavy steels, frames, laser welds and tight "0.05 tolerances all around will not creak when you go over bumps or make sharp turns...that's pure baloney.

Instead, check your aftermaket suspension mods (Such as the sway bar) for the source of your creaks. Check your tires/wheels, suspension, exhaust, braking system and even interior trim. Your culprit is hidden somewhere in there, but rest assured that your MINI's solid body is not the problem.

 

Thanks everyone for the input. Aside from an intake and aftermarket pads and rotors, she's all stock. I'll have the dealer check it out at my next service in a few weeks.

 

Definitely check the suspension first. Maybe if it's not that, there could be something with the plastic trim pieces not being properly fitted causing the noise.


Just my $0.02.

 

Does not creak, but leaked really badly last winter when when of the forward drain pipes decided to call it quits after two weeks of very cold weather.


regards,
Red

 

Well I took her in for service today and asked them yet again to check out the creaking noise... and they found the problem!!!

It turns out that my driver's side door was out of adjustment and the noise was coming from the top window seal. They adjusted the striker and all is well!

BTW, what exactly is a striker?

 

A striker is the plate on the doorjam where the locking mechanism attaches. (It also doubles as a bottle opener in some parts).

 

Thanks MGC!