Recently my MINI started making a weird "whomp" type noise coming from the front passenger side, maybe rear, I can't tell well. Its not a squeel, or high pitched, its hard to describe just sounds like my tire is bad, but they are all new. It does NOT happen on turns or braking, just increases with speed. At speeds under 15 mph you can't hear it. So Im thinking its not a CV issue, shocks, or tires. What else could it be? What does a cracked control arm bushing sound like?

I hit a HUGE pothole that caused the tire to bust, so I had it replaced. Then about 1,000 miles after I get this new sound. A previous inspection says the control arm bushings are cracked and I believe they are because there is some movement when you kick the tire. But I would have thought control arm bushings would give me more grief on turns and such?

If it is, should I replace both fronts bushings at the same time?

 

Absolutely replace both at the same time.

 

Right side almost always goes out 1st. but have to be changed in pairs as JAB already mentioned.

Powerflex makes awesome replacement bushings if you want something better than oem. Way Motorworks should have some.

 

Thats fine, but does this even sound like this could be the problem? Do mini's have rear control arm bushings, b/c I didn't see any?

 

Call WayMotorWorks, explain the problem, and he will set you straight.



Front control arm bushings commonly go bad on Minis, but I wouldn't think you'd get a rotational noise from it. I would inspect your CV boots. But call Way, he's had about a 100 Minis and fixed several times that number.

- drew

 

Yes a set of Powerflex Control arm bushings will take care of your front end.

I wouldnt worry much about the rear control arms. I've only seen a couple of them worn out, and they were track cars.

 

Just took it into a shop and its the rear wheel bearing (passenger side). The total repair will be $400 with an OEM part. Im thinking since its the entire hub thats going to be replaced, that ill just get the aftermarket part for $150 and install myself. Plus if the other one goes soon, ill know how to do it anyway. Any special tool required?

 

No the rear wheel bearings aren't to hard. Much easier than the front, the axles get stuck alot.

 

Very good, will be getting when part comes in, thanks for all the help!