Suspension - Noise When Using Automatic Car Wash
SI M00 05 02Maintenance and General Information
April 2002
Service Engineering
SUBJECT
Noise When Using Car Wash
MODEL
MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S
SITUATION
Some customers may experience a scraping noise when using certain automatic car washes. This noise usually occurs when the car is driven into the car wash guide rails with the left rear tire up against the inboard guide rail. The noise stops as the tire centers itself between the guide rails.
CAUSE
In car washes with higher than normal guide rails, the lower end of the lefi rear shock can come in contact with the top of the inboard guide rail if the tire is up against the inboard rail. As the car moves forward, the tire centers itself between the rails, and the shock no longer makes contact.
Unless the guide rail has breaks or sharp edges due to previous damage, this contact will not cause any damage to the vehicle.
CORRECTION
Advise customers that they should keep the lefi side tires centered between the guide rails when entering automatic car washes to prevent this noise from occurring, as well as preventing damage to the outer rim flange caused by hitting the outboard guide rail.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Information only.