I have about 80K on my 2005 MINI (had since new), and am trying to figure out if something is going on with my transmission/engine/computer.

2005 MINI, Cooper, hardtop, CVT

My daily commute is 18 miles, speeds 55/50/55/35/30/35/40/25 MPH, with the majority of it being 55mph. I use cruise control extensively, coast to stop signs, and accelerate from stop signs slowly.

My RPM's hover around 4000-4500 when going 50/55. They tend to stay around 2500-3500 when going slower.

If I go on the expressway (70MPH), they settle around 3500-4000, if I switch to SD mode they'll drop down to 3000.

However... let's say I'm going 70MPH and exiting the expressway. As I get off the ramp and start slowing down (no braking at the moment), the transmission/engine start to make a lot of noise, and the RPM's lower (I believe) which makes the car engine brake rather quickly. Once it reaches 55 the car settles down. I now only drive in SD when going on the expressway, at least when around speed transition points.

Any thoughts? I haven't taken it to a mechanic, wanted to first see if anyone has seem similar issues.

Thanks!

John

 

I think this started in the last few years, but it seems like the engine RPMs have slowly been creeping up for the same speed (ie, a year ago I think it would never go above 4000 unless I pushed it).

 

My will do a similar thing on occasion, switch to Sport Drive and drive it that mode for a while 30-40 minutes and see it it will return to normal.