Hello all,

Sunday, I bought my first mini cooper, a manual 2004 Cooper S. It’s got 95555 miles right now. I had to change the timing chain tensioner already, but have been driving it around today relatively okay.

However, as seen in the video, I have noticed this since I bought the car. Can anybody help with any insight?

Additionally, in the higher rpms, I can hear an obvious squealing noise. Is that likely to be the belt tensioner/belt?

Any insight is much appreciated.

Thanks!

 

I haven't seen the video but I would venture a guess that the squealing you are hearing in all probability is an idler pulley that is about to detonate.
A failed one will leave your Mini piggy back riding on a flatbed.
They are relatively in expensive and very easy to replace as long as you have the belt tensioner removal tool.

​​​A simple way to diagnose is; while the car is running and the squealing is present and car is sitting still, use some lightly soapy water in a spray bottle and spray the pulley.
The squealing should go away or be less audible.
Regardless, (IMO), having a spare $20 idler pulley on hand is a good thing to have to avoid leaving you stranded.