1st Gen R53 Cooper S Most liked posts in thread: Strut problems? 04 with 130000 miles

  1. Justa Jim

    Justa Jim Well-Known Member
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    #2 Justa Jim, Dec 21, 2011
    Welcome aboard. I can't answer your question, but with that many miles they could be. I know MINI has a number of parts that they say are lifetime, but what exactly is "lifetime"? Is that "forever" or the "lifetime" of the part? :D

    Jim
     
  2. k-huevo

    k-huevo Club Coordinator

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    #3 k-huevo, Dec 21, 2011
    Have a look at the area around the front strut top for deformation and/or a torn guide support bushing. Strut Mushrooming - MINI Cooper Forum - MINI2 Mini Cooper Forums

    Compare how far the dust cap extends upward from one strut to the other. The guide support bushing can collapse from below and not show a visible tear above.

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  3. Crashton

    Crashton Club Coordinator

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    #4 Crashton, Dec 21, 2011
    ^ Yes like k-huevo said. At that mileage I'd say the struts are a bit past their prime. They can be bad & not show any leaking. The old bounce the car test works better on cars with soft springs like old American land yachts not so mush on a car with stiff springs like your MINI.

    Welcome to M/A milda. :)
     
  4. beken

    beken Well-Known Member

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    #5 beken, Dec 28, 2011
    Actually, have a look at your front suspension bushings. It's likely time they are replaced if they haven't been replaced yet.
     
  5. SNEEEZY - Erika

    SNEEEZY - Erika M/A Wrenchin' Babe!
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    #6 SNEEEZY - Erika, Dec 28, 2011
    Does anyone know the "mileage life" for Megan coilovers?
     
  6. Way Motor Works

    Way Motor Works New Member

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    #7 Way Motor Works, Jan 1, 2012
    Sounds like they are worn out. The Koni FSD's are a great cost effective replacement.
     
  7. Minidave

    Minidave Well-Known Member
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    #8 Minidave, Jan 1, 2012
    Check the lower control arm bushings too......at 130K on an '04 I'd be surprised they're not completely knackered....