Hey guys, new 2 site 1st time mini owner.. just bought 2008 mini Cooper s sport package and noticed the steering jerks aggressively when going over potholes, man hole covers, bumps, etc. ...alignment seems to be fine when driving on smooth surfaces, but when going over unsmooth surfaces at higher speeds or during breaking, steering wheel jerks aggressively....anything to do with DSC, or tires, suspension? Anyone experience the same? Thanx guys

 

Yep its a known characteristic of our Coopers especially with Sport suspension and Run Flats in particular.

A good "fix" is ditching the run flats and / or replacing the stock shocks with Koni FSDs for example.

 

I've driven a few different Minis, and they all do it.
Turning Sport mode off helps a bit

 

Why do that it is so much more fun to drive with it on?

 

Because the OP asked about jerky steering over potholes/bumps...

I personally drive with it on.

 

ALL front wheel drive cars have this to some extent the higher the power the more you see it. It can also be reduced with major changes to the front end suspension geometry but then you are reducing the great handling these cars have.

 

thanx for the responses guys!!

 

I play dodge the potholes all the time. Very fun. Keeps me alert.