I finally got my unicorn delivered, #36 of the last of the Super Charged, JCW/Sidewalk R52

She looks to be in pretty good shape, except when steering right, a loud chirping sound comes from the front passenger side:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/eayb7hpd64...lphin.m4a?dl=0

This happens wether driving or standing still. I have not been able to find the same problem elsewhere.

Any suggestions?

 

Sounds like the axle is binding, but also could be other things rubbing like something on the brake shield? You said its when you are stopped also? If so I would have someone look in the wheel well at the steering rack and see if something is rubbing the rack as it moved the tie rods, also check the PS fluid and make sure its up. Better to post in here as this is the gen2 JCW, you have a gen 1: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...lems-issues-9/


Oh, and congrats on the LOTSC, thats awesome.

 

Moving this to the Gen1 Stock Problems/Issues area

 

I'd be willing to bet you're in for a set of strut mounts, or if it's got aftermarket shocks on it (Koni) the spring perch may be spinning on the shock body.

I've not seen these cars squeak from the outer ball joint, but I've seen others do it. I just did upper control arms on my moms Jeep Commander because the upper ball joints were squeaking on turns.

But I'd still be more inclined to say strut mounts, or something in the front shock assemblies.

 

My MINI buddy seems inclined to think so as well. We are going to check her out tonight in his heated garage (too cold here in Chicago!)

What really bugs me is that I paid MINI of Escondido for a pre-purchase inspection and there was no mention of this in it.

Thanks for your help.