Front end vibration

[1hayes10]

I have an 03 CooperS that is not modified. There is a vibration/noise coming from the passenger side front end. It gets louder as speed increases and is worse when steering to the right and almost goes away when steering to the left. I have replaced the engine mounts, the trans mount, the CV shaft and the wheel bearing yet the noise persists. Any ideas what's going on?

[Luccia at Pelican Parts]

You replaced both front wheel bearings? Have you checked your suspension bushings, most importantly your lower front control arm bushings? Those can cause an issue with vibration if they're in bad condition.

Read and check out our control arm and ball joint article here: MINI Cooper Control Arm Bushing and Ball Joint Replacement (R50/R52/R53 2001-2006) | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article. It'll give you great insight and show detailed images of the replacement.

As far as what to replace them with, you can go with Genuine/OEM replacements or you can upgrade to a polyurethane over rubber. Powerflex bushings will prolong tire life, improve performance, give you better handling and they are more cost-effective than OEM bushings. You wont sacrifice ride comfort for these upgrade bushings.

Genuine/OEM options - (scroll down to bushings only) 2003 Mini Cooper S Hatchback - Suspension, Shocks & Springs - Page 5
Powerflex - 2003 Mini Cooper S Hatchback - Suspension Upgrades & Performance - Page 4

Let me know what you find once you get under the vehicle and inspect your bushings and suspension components. Let me know if you have any questions.