SUBJECT
Steering Column Noise


MODEL
R50 (Cooper) and R53 (Cooper S)


SITUATION
Customer may complain of a distinct squeaking noise heard from the top of steering column when the vehicle is driven over bumps or when the steering wheel is turned.

PROCEDURE
Verify the customer complaint. Proceed with the following instructions only after the customer complaint has been verified.

Remove the upper section of steering column trim.


Apply one piece of felt tape on to the upper steering column area.

Remove the lower section of steering column trim.


Apply one piece of felt tape on to the lower steering column area.

 

What was I thinking?? I'm brand new here. I bought my wife a 2002 with 43000 miles last week, picked it up in Houston and drove it back to Long Beach, CA. Ran great, we love it. We asked Long Beach Mini (BMW) to safety check it and asked what is that noise when you turn the wheel; their solution, new drive shaft for $800. They had it for two days and when my wife picked it up there's a transmission problem (possibly) Won't know until tomorrow but I'm skeptical...