A/C - Whistling Noise From Dash Above 50 MPH
SI M64 01 04Heating and Air Conditioning
February 2006
Technical Service
This Service Information bulletin supersedes Advanced SI M64 01 04 dated April 2004.
[NEW] designates changes to this revision
SUBJECT
Whistling at Speeds of Over 50 MPH from the Heater
MODEL
R50 (Cooper) from October 19, 2002 production
R53 (Cooper S) from October 19, 2002 production
SITUATION
Whistling noises are heard from the right-hand side dashboard area at speeds over 50 mph (80 km/h). The noise is similar in volume to that of the maximum blower speed. This noise disappears if the right side fresh air intake grille in the wind deflector is removed. If the entire wind deflector is removed, the noise is still present, but its volume is reduced.
CAUSE
The fresh air/recirculated air flap on the heater is suspected as being insufficiently rigid when closed, i.e., in the fresh-air mode.
^ With the introduction of the new style fresh air/recirculated air flap (from October 19, 2002), a whistle noise may occur because the new flap is insufficiently rigid when closed causing a slight air leak by the flap. The new style and old style flaps are shown on the left.
PROCEDURE
1. Access the fresh air/recirculated air flap on the right side of the vehicle behind the glove box. Refer to repair manual instructions RA 51 16 360.
2. Affix a foam strip (160 mm long, 9 mm wide and 5 mm thick), to the upper edge (hinged side) of the open fresh air/recirculated air flap such that the foam strip forms a seal with the housing when the flap is closed. The foam strip may need to be trimmed slightly to ensure a proper fit.
3. Close the flap and ensure that the foam strip seals properly.
PARTS INFORMATION
[NEW] WARRANTY INFORMATION
Covered under the terms of the MINI New Vehicle Limited Warranty.