So I just bought my '11 MCS and have been hearing a faint but high pitched squeal similar to a quiet dentist drill coming from the engine when I hit around 2500-3000rpm. I've heard of the dreaded dentist drill noise that signals the death of a turbo but can't tell the difference between turbo whine and this more sinister cousin.
Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

Get it back to your dealer ASAP better yet have them pick it up. Keep us posted

 

So I guess that means it's not simple turbo whine? Getting to the dealer is not an easy proposition but I guess I have no choice.
Thanks.

 

Not easy proposition? It's free...you just call the toll free number and they send somebody to tow it back.

 

There is the turbo whine angle, but then the timing chain type issue, then the water pump issue, then the ("normal operation" of) 2011 wastegates on S's, then the HPFP issue ... As in several potential issues w/ noise symptoms; not worth parsing which noise is which--search threads if you want. All but the wastegate one suggest getting to dealer pronto, though supposedly they were all resolved w/ running changes and motor revision.

 

Well, I suppose that all depends on several variables including, but not limited to: proximity to dealer, free time to drive to dealer or schedule pickup, and the availability of a loaner car. None of these variables make the aforementioned proposition easy for me.

 

I see...I didn't think about all those things. Let us know what the dealer say.

 

All's well took her to the dealer this AM and the tech heard it and said it was just the bearings and a totally normal sound So my baby is sound!! Thanks for the advice and support in this most trying time

 

Phew!!! Good to know.

 

Bearings should be silent

 

So what are the various elements within turbo that make sounds of any kind? I know turbos make noises but I'm not a tech so distinguishing the possible sounds and sources is beyond me. I have to throw myself at the mercy of the techs at mini and just rely on my warranty if something goes. The thing is I can't feel any reduction in power, and the noise is faint.

I guess I'll have to wait until something drastic happens, or nothing happens for an extended period, to get an answer.

If someone could post a video, or link to one, that shows what a bad turbo noise is I'd appreciate it greatly.

 

Ever hear of The Google ? as in .... search for "turbo dentist drill"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKnI3DS8ino

 

The turbocharger is similar to a jet engine. It is a precise turbine that is powered by exhaust pressure instead of jet fuel. It compresses (speeds up) air and forces it into the instake of the car to make it more powerful. The "turbo noise" is the sound of the air interacting with the turbine. It is literally "wistling wind" not a mechanical sound. The turbine spins on very low resistance bearings at speeds up to 120,000 rpm depending on the application. If the bearings are "noisey" they are very worn and are providing unwanted resistance to the otherwise free spinning turbine. It sounds like you are hearing normal turbo sounds...

 

Can you goto your dealer and test drive another MCS, and compare the sound with yours? If it sounds the same, then you're cool.

 

I'd hang on to the N/C work order with the complaint, and the response - just to be cautious. If things go bad it will be invaluable audit trail.

You did get it in writing, correct?

Cheers,

Charlie

 

So I think you're spot on. I have listened to a bunch of Videos of spooling turbos and I hear the same sound. I feel comfortable it's normal. But I guess it's one of those things that you will never really be 100% sure of until something breaks but for now I'm satisfied. Thanks for the helpful responses all.

 

I did not get in in writing but you make a good point. I think I'll do that.

 

Yet another good suggestion which I failed to consider. Truth is I was scrambling that morning and did not have time but I feel like the videos gave me a similar test sampling.

 

Definitely, get it in writing. You may have better hearing than me, but my wife's MCS makes no turbine or whining noise I can hear.

Cheers