With more recent and increased intesity, I notice what I can only describe as a strange hollow plastic against plastic thumping sound that is nearly constant anytime the car is in motion or going over bumps (driveways etc.)

I notice it more now than a few weeks ago. To give more of an idea of sound...I intially thought it was items in the glove box tray moving around, which I eliminated as possibility. It definitely sounds like it is originating in the passenger side dash or front side door area. Nothing is loose under the bonnet as far as I can tell, and again, it is only heard when the car is moving, thus I assume it is not engine related.

Any ideas? I think I am going to call the dealer tomorrow and perhaps make an appointment as it is just driving me nuts.

Thanks for any suggestions.

TJM

 

Have you checked your engine mounts for leakage? Seems like the '05s have problems with the mounts leaking.

 

Would I notice anything on my garage floor per se? I have a painted floor and drips do not go unnoticed easily.

 

Not sure, the posts that I have read indicate that the metal can on the passenger side of the engine bay leaves an oily residual on the frame member that it is bolted to. I've been keeping an occasional eye on my wife's '05 for leakage but haven't spotted anything yet.

 

Any other ideas on this one for me? I am desperate.

TJM

 

I had the same condition with my '05 MCS last week. Turned out to be a faulty lower engine mount, which the daler replaced in no time.

 

Yeah its going in tomorrow morning. I suspect at this point it is something similar as it is now a constant noise and very noticeable.

Thanks for all the ideas, I will let everyone know how it turned out.

 

Diagnosis was indeed a faulty engine mount. Upper to be exact. Patrick MINI had it done in less than an hour. As always, super friendly and helpful service over there.