whining noise

[muisje S]

We are the proud owners of a April 2005 Cooper S, things have been terrific with the car apart from one thing. It appears then when we drive over 140kph / 86mph the car makes a whining sound.

Originally we thought it was from the wind direction but it happens no matter what direction we are heading in, and only happens over 140k. When I say whining noise, this isn't a subtle noise, it is a full blown whining noise which is very load and irritating. We have taken the car to the mini dealer over here, but they don't seem to know what the problem is and has it happens over the national speed limit, they are reluctant to test it.

If you might know of any other people that have had similar problems like this or perhaps have a lead that we can suggest to the dealers over here, I would be very very grateful.

[danb]

Maybe a daft question but... are you sure its not just the supercharger? When you get to that speed in 6th is when the supercharger whine starts to kick in

[nylo]

yeah, that's what I was going to say too...

[bimini]

is it a consistant whine or does it cut in and out?

my other 1/2 had a whine which cut in and out at varying speeds...turned out it was a dicky alternator belt...dealer fixed it and it hasn't troubled her (and consequently me) since

[MAD Always]

Is this a whind up?

The supercharger is a direct drive, it will not cut in or out if the speed is kept constant. (unless you put your foot on the clutch and the engine revs drop).

[fone]

Just a long shot - could it be wind noise coming from the windsreen wipers at high speed ??? Some cars have this problem at high speed. Try taping them down on a dry fine day and do a test run.

[TNR]

I had exactly the same problem on my S with the JCW package. After the dealer taped every seem and crack on the exterior and was still unable to find the problem we explored the engine bay and found the bottom portion of the air box improperly installed. I'll have a look at the exact wording on the work order and reply later today with that info. Regards....

[muisje S]

Thanks for all info it has been interesting reading. I can definately say it isn't the supercharger, but will be interested to find out about the airbox, will watch this thread with interest! With all this advice I have some back-up when I take her back to BMW Holland.

I am now beginning to catch muisje (dutch for little mouse - novel eh! ) up in the whining stakes.

Happy Speeding!

[rene73]

I have the same thing at illegal speeds, thought it might be the (closed) glass sunroof, if you have solved it please let us know how you did it!

[notts04chillimini]

cant beat the whine of a supercharger!!! i should hope that the sound you are experienceing is that or otherwise id get it checked out asap!