My 2007 Cooper non S automatic started making this weird rubbing clicking clanking sound about 2 weeks ago and seems to be getting worse. It mostly happens during turning the steering wheel and when acceleration and braking is done. It seems to be coming from the steering column area i think or maybe front left area of the car. Heres a quick video of the sound. Please tell me you thoughts and any ideas how to fix it. I would rather try to fix it my self than go to the dealer since is just a huge hassle. I did look under the car and it seems everything seems ok. thanks

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RubB5nCTnp8

 

Hmmm. Well, the only time I've heard a similar noise coming from a steering column was in my father's 2004 Chevy Tahoe; in his case, the universal joint in the steering column needed some lubrication. I also recall my father saying that their 2003 Pontiac Bonneville also produced similar noises for similar reasons.

Not sure why, if steering column U-joint lubrication is the answer, you'd hear it under acceleration and braking, though; my parents' vehicles only made that kind of noise when the steering wheel was turned... Might have something to do with front-wheel drive...?

 

Update: here's an update on my issue if anybody cares. I took the car into the dealership and they said there is a service bulletin for this issue. They replaced a bad transmission mount and two hex bolts for newer updated versions. I guess it only affects 2007 Regular Cooper automatics and some 2008 Cooper automatics with a build date 01/08 or older. Everything was covered by warranty and all the sounds went away. Just like new now. Knock on wood everything is OK for now on.

 

Glad to hear it all got cleared up! And thanks for keeping everyone updated!

 

I have the same noise but it's random.The video you posted is exactly what I'm hearing although mine is a '07 MCS auto.Hopefully the dealer will look into the trans mount etc. Gotta love this site for the info...Thax

 

I just started hearing a similar sound. I made an appointment with my nearest mini dealer, so hopefully its still covered under warranty since I am the second owner. I have heard some horror stories of people not being able to carry the warranty over from a previous owner on some occasions.

I have an 04/2007 Mini Cooper S 6-Speed