BB---
I really think it might be from the heat --- different metals expanding at different rates above a certain temperature?
I thought that it was odd that I got the squeal on a cold ride but not a hint of a problem while I was thrashing it on the track. No bad sounds on the drive home as well --- through backroads and countryside.
Maybe the rough treatment is what it needed?
I wish I knew. This car is a pisser to drive but I can't enjoy it fully when I've got my ears perked-up in anticipation of a banshee howl.
I'm trying my best to have faith...

 

If I could hypothesize it could be a couple of issues:

1. Alignment issues with engine and transmission/clutch housing
2. Break-in issues
3. Heat issue

It seems to affect only early build cars. I haven't heard of anyone past a March build having this problem.

 

That's the part that really rankles me.
I just can't get rid of the feeling that no matter what we do the problem will always resurface.

 

I wonder if anyone who has experienced the problem has actually had a permanent fix.

 

I dont think we will really know that until we are at least another year down the road. Nothing ever seems "permanent" with these cars. So far, my trans has been holding up well, including at the same track weekend arnbut went to this weekend. Im hoping this is the end of my trans troubles.

 

So my dealer advised me today that BMW have issued a service bulletin to dealerships. Apparently the noise is caused by the surface of the clutch plate glazing. The solution is a bit long-winded but basically involves frying the clutch to burn it off. I'll post a copy of the bulletin after I pick my car and paperwork from the dealer on Thursday.

 

At least they finally spoke out.I will be waiting for the long winded version.

 

Maybe that's why the noise went away after my track sessions on Saturday?
Maybe I got the bastid hot enough...

btw, footwell pillar temperature is 115 degrees F with outdoor ambient temp 67 degrees & light driving.
And the car had the alluring aroma of gasoline in it after sitting for about a half hour this morning.
Lovely.

I've renamed the car The Anti-Christ.

 

So I picked my car up today, and the noise has gone, (don't know for how long); I have attached a copy of the paperwork I received with the invoice. It appears to be more of email communication as the result of the dealer filing a PUMA report with Mini USA. Not yet a service bulletin, but it does describe the "clutch frying" solution.

 

Mini is swapping my car out with another car.
Great work by my dealership and outstanding support from them at every turn (although they probably think I'm a lunatic by now).
Good luck with yours, BritBoy.
How can I get a copy of that paperwork...?

 

Sorry for the delay...I've attached the paperwork, hope its legible.

 

BB

The car they mention in the report of having the same problem is my car! Seems to be holding up right now but I will be keeping an ear out for any noise that pops up!

 

I guess they applied the same solution to your car as well, i.e. slip the clutch till it smokes...So far the noise hasn't returned, please post if your noise returns.

 

Will do, I find myself listening for the noise!

 

BritBoy & Cooper2u can I have an update? How are your clutches? Any noise??