How do I fix a suspension noise?

[Matt Intel]

Folks,
A sqeaking suspension noise from my MINI is driving me mad!!! The noise is coming from the Front-left suspension strut. Its a sqeaking noise, like rubber on metal. When I opened the bonnet (or hood for my U.S. friends!!) I can see where it coming from. The top of the suspension strut has a rubber seal at the top and this is rubbing off the car bodywork, causing the sqeak. The left suspension strut looks the same but doesn't seem to have the same problem. I have put oil and grease on it but it doesn't get any better.

Thinking of bringing it to a mechanic to fix? (which I'm sure will cost me).

Anyone got any quick fixes that could help me?

Thanks!!!

Matt

[ALD0]

Take it to the dealer to get it fixed under warranty?

[Matt Intel]

Quote: Originally Posted by interceptor

Take it to the dealer to get it fixed under warranty?

My MINI is an early (Jan / Feb) 2002 model. Is it still under warranty. I thought the warranty on MINI's was only 2 years. Interceptor, Can you confirm?

Tnx. Matt

[ALD0]

3 years
Though it might be different in Eire?

[jason@promini]

do you have any urethane bushings? if its under waranty, take it in.

[Matt Intel]

Quote: Originally Posted by jason@promini

do you have any urethane bushings? if its under waranty, take it in.

Jason. To be honest, I'm not sure. The top of the right suspension looks the same as the left but is not causing this squeak. Very irritating. If the hood is open and I push the suspension up and down, I can hear the squeak coming from the small rubber seal / washer visible at the top of the strut. I'll try and take a picture tonight and post it on this site. Sent an e-mail to the main dealer to see if it is still under warranty. But I was hoping there was a simpler fix (i.e. to avoid me taking time off work, sitting in traffic & bringing the MINI down to the dealer etc...

Looks like I'll have to take a few hours off work.