Hello again--I'm back! Been a little over 4 months since I got rid of my 04 for a Cooper S. However, our other 04 that we still have is starting to make a not so nice cracking (only way I can describe it) noise when turning the wheel while dipping into a dip. Or even while turning into our driveway before we go up it. Anyone know of what this could be? Somewhere I heard the steering rack, which can cost over $2,000 (supposedly) Hopefully that isn't the case, otherwise we'll be unloading it. Has 105,000 miles on it now. I don't know what other info to give so if you have any ideas i'll try my best to inform you guys. Thanks
My 2004 had a noise (and you could feel it in your hands) in the steering. Repair required replacing the upper steering column assembly for $900 (plus $90 for the diagnosis) at my dealer. The noise was due to the "slip ring" (allows the column to collapse in an accident) getting loose. JeffD
Thanks for the reply. Did the dealer say anything about it being a necessary replacement? Something we can put off? Or is it recommended immediately so it doesn't collapse or something, ha ha. What do you think
He was not worried about an immediate failure (he had to order the part and let me drive home), but I was concerned that the noise could mask a more critical failure. It was repaired a week later. Why don't you drive the car up to either Arts Automotive or Luscious Garage to get an opinion. JeffD
