Hello all:

I recently noticed there's a crackling sound from standing start and during shifts, mostly from 1st to 2nd or when I back off the gas paddle in lower gears. The noise seems to come when there's back and forth momentum shift like a gear change, accelerate/decelerate, etc. The noise sounds like rolling over foliage. I am pretty sure it's not detonation from the engine and it's consistent.

Anyone has experienced the same?

 

Congratulations - you've discovered "the burble". When you let off the gas, the air/fuel mixture becomes lean enough that not all of the fuel is burned in the engine, and you get this crackling/popping noise from the fuel burning in the exhaust.

It's completely harmless, there's nothing wrong with your car. For some people, its one of the more-enjoyable sounds that our cars make.

You can do a search on the forum for "burble" to find out more.

Scott

 

I have an MCSa, and while I hear a slight sound when I back off the gas pedal at lower gears, it's not like the sound you describe. It's more of a deep bass rumble. (Is this a "burble"??? )

Did your noise start recently? I've had my MINI for 3 months and 4000 miles and this noise has been consistant throughout.

 

I haven't heard this sound, or maybe and I just didn't notice it. I'll hear for it the next time around.

 

Are you guys talking about the resonating that occurs at 2200-3000 rpm? It seems to send a rumble down the car? I've had this from day one and only gets worse with mods.

 

Guys:

It's not the back fire sound that I like listening to, definitely not back firing. It's not that loud and it is very clear when I drive alongside parked cars or a wall since it reflects off. I suspect it's from the auto tranny, might not be abnormal sound. I can't find the word to describe it, it's like something is clicking. Dame I wish I could record it.