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Stock Problems/IssuesDiscussions related to warranty related issues and repairs, or other problems with the OEM parts and software for MINI Cooper (R50), Cabrio (R52), and Cooper S (R53) MINIs.
I have a 2006 base model with 140k miles.
When not under acceleration I’m getting a front end wobble. When jacked up in neutral I’m getting a catch each rotation when spinning the drivers side front wheel. The transmission moves when the catch happens as well. See short video clips.
Changed motor mounts and transmission mount and transmission fluid.
Any thoughts?
Perhaps start with the engine mounts and bushings?
I'm no expert; but it does look like there is an exorbitant (obvious) amount of movement in the lower ("dog bone") engine mount as well as the upper gearbox mount.
Have you checked the tightness/torque of the bolts securing the gearbox mount?
I might also suspect the upper right (passenger side) engine mount might be shot or in need of replacing.
Although I see no evidence of a torn bushing in the lower engine mount (dog bone) but it might warrant closer inspection or replacement.
With respect to engine mounts: my novice notion would lean towards the upper right engine mount being bad.
But I feel I'm missing something else that hasn't yet come to mind....
Thanks for the reply. The engine mounts and transmission mount are new. The right side one was shot so I was hopeful. But nothing. So then I was hopeful about the lower mount. No change. Then I did the left side just to have all new.
Seems like you've covered all the suspected mounts.
The up and down motion of the (left side) upper trans mount has me a bit concerned.
If you can check the torque on those bolts - it may not be a bad idea.
Assuming the axle nut is torqued to spec/135lbs....
The only other issue that comes to mind is (possibly) severely worn control arm bushings or perhaps ball joints(?) allowing such pronounced movement of the drivetrain.
Just as a rudimentary test, you can do the simple tire kick test (front of tread), and see. It should be solid with no movement forward or back.
Might want to jack up that side again and at the same time try to observe any upward lift/movement to the drivetrain or control arm.
While the car is up in a safe manner, you might also try pushing and pulling the wheel/tire or axle in and out + up and down to see/feel any movement or sloppiness in the axle.