I was driving earlier tonight and heard a noise that sounded like the dust shield on the brakes rubbing on the (front) brake disc. I checked and there is enough clearance all around to where it shouldn't rub. Anyone else have a similar noise? I checked the CV boots and they're fine. I also thought it could possibly be a wheel bearing but I have never heard the noise before tonight

 

I have a 2005 S. I have goodyear runflats. The left front tire had 7psi, I took it off and noticed it was rubbing the strut slightly. Just a note to check. I also have rear grinding noise, sounds just like brakes into the rotor. But I pulled the wheels and all looks good other than a small lip forming on the top of the rotor because the pad does not go all the way to the top of the rotor. I wonder if that is what is making a rubbing/grinding noise. Will call Mini tomorrow. We have great mechanics in Cincy!

 

This may be the cause, it's worth a try:

Occasionally a small bit of gravel gets caught between the brake disc and pad and will cause a rubbing sound, sometimes quite loud. A mechanic once told me that the first thing to try is to accelerate rapidly in reverse and agressively apply the brakes, then repeat several times. This action will often clear the debris and the sound will go with it. This has worked successfully for me on a number of occasions and is certainly an easy fix.
Please DO NOT try this if your brakes are giving any other symptoms other than a rubbing sound.