Just in the past few days i can hear this strange whine coming from my engine compartment under acceleration.And when i down-shift i hear a chattering noise.Also while this is all happening i can feel a vibration in the clutch pedal and the shifter!

Anyone have an idea?

Mini is taking a look in a few days.

 

Sounds like a bad clutch.How new,old, is your MINI.Do you drive it hard?

 

Does sound like the clutch or a clutch component. But also do a thread search on NAM for "Midlands" and "failure" There have been issues with the 5-speed Cooper transmission...and you might want to read up on these before you head in to the dealer.

Good luck!!

 

The problem with the Midlands tranny seems to be an oil seal leak at the transaxle,not the tranny itself.After the car is parked for a few hours check under the car on the drivers side about in line where the bonnet release is up front.If you see oil,get a hold of your dealer right away.

 

Thanks for the replies! Just to let you know it is a 2002 Cooper and i only drive hard occasionaly mainly just driving to and from work.

I am taking the car to the dealer on Friday so i'll let you know whats happens.