2002 Cooper S with 13k on the clock - Squeak advice pleas

[Paul]

Our 2002 S, which has has about 13k on the clock, has had a squeak for a while.

Obviously it's out of warranty, but I wanted some tips.

It's worse when it's cold (as in weather AND as in not been used), and goes away at higher revs (about 2.3k and above) and when warm.

The squeak is constant, it sounds like a belt squeak, and is coming from the "belt" side/area of the engine.

I've read that some people had work under warranty due to a manufacturing issue on earlier MINIs meaning a replacement belt will only be a part time solution.

Any thoughts on the problem, and possible solutions would be welcomed!

[Harpo]

Don't know if the belt tensioner is the same design as used on my old One D, but I can say that when I sold mine six weeks ago it was on its third tensioner in 44 months & 43k miles.

And I can also say that the symptoms described are exactly the same as I had.

All mine were exchanged FOC with no quibble. Judging by the response of the workshop staff, I believe that the tensioner is the Achilles heel of the car.

[ru81]

My 2002 MCS had a couple of squeaks under the boonet. One of which was caused by one or more of the heat sheilds rubbing against something. The second squeak was from the alternator belt. The garage fixed this by taking the belt off and turning it around before refitting. You could try this if you think it is the alternator making the noise.

[Paul]

Quote: Originally Posted by Harpo (original)

Don't know if the belt tensioner is the same design as used on my old One D, but I can say that when I sold mine six weeks ago it was on its third tensioner in 44 months & 43k miles.

And I can also say that the symptoms described are exactly the same as I had.

All mine were exchanged FOC with no quibble. Judging by the response of the workshop staff, I believe that the tensioner is the Achilles heel of the car.

If it is this "warranty" item, even though the age of the car (5 years) puts me out of warranty, do you think with the low mileage they may take pity on me and not charge?!

Anyone else had experience of this?