I am still hunting down the "clank" sound in my transmission and I would like to know where you check/fill transmission fluid in an 02' MCS. I've heard that it's possible that replacing the tranny fluid can make this sound stop. Thought I'd give it a try.

Anyone?

 

Manual or auto? Please try to describle the sound and when it happens.

YD

 

I have this in another post but to keep it pertinent:

• Manual Transmission
• 02' MCS
• Only when switching from 1st to 2nd
• Only when driving slowly
• Makes sound "just" before shifting to 2nd while clutch is still engaged
• Doesn't make the sound if switching from 1st to neutral, THEN to 2nd
• Doesn't always make the sound, maybe 70% of the time or so.
• Can't seem to tell if it's better or worse hot or cold.
• As I described in the other post

If you were to put your ear against the transmission while changing gears, then imagine that only amplified loud enough that you can hear it from the cockpit.

I read in several places that simply adding tranny fluid, or changing the tranny fluid can reduce or eliminate the noise. I'd like to try this before I spend seven grand on a new transmission.

 

I remember this from the other post... I think the concensus was worn synchronizers.

 

I'd still like to know where to check transmission fluid though if possible

 

Under the transmission there will be two plugs. The lower one is the drain. The one above it is the fill and max level plug. Remove the upper one and stick your little finger in the hole. If you feel lube, it is full, if it comes out dry, you are low.

To change the fluid, remove the lower plug and let the lube run out. Replace the lower plug and add new lube in the upper hole until it starts to run out, replace that plug and your're done.

There is no dipstick if that is what you were looking for.

YD

 

thanks!

 

I think it's normal. My 2006 has done it for 18,000 miles with no ill effects. If you are worried. Check the fluid level in your tranny or better yet change it.

 

That's what I'm hoping it is.

 

Over the past year or so I remember reading this very question you asked more than a couple of times. Not uncommon.

 

I've read of similar noises in E36 / E46 (and even E30) BMW 3-series cars...
(BMW owns Mini, so not surprising)... (as well as in 944 series cars)

Several owners have tried fresh Mobil1 or Redline (15W90?) tranny lube and it quieted things down, but then again, these were mostly higher mileage / older cars too...

 

I have heard that noise in my 04 for as long as I can remember. I've been told by gearhead friends and MINI techs that it is the synchronizer. 100k and still going.

 

i had a clank on slow speeds when accelerating/decelerating, turned out to be a loose axlenut.