Hi first let me thank you for allowing me to join this incredible community! Go MINI!

i have an 02 cooper which is completely stock and done 75000 km. I have just had the gearbox bearing replaced by my mechanix and on return I have noticed a louder intake like a 'whooosh' sound as if the intake for some reason is sucking in more. I have checked the intake system everything is sealed and the air filter on inspection is new and fine.

It doesn't sound like pulley whine or a valve knocking against the piston head. But when i accelerate harder the noise gets louder. It starts from 2000rpm and gets louder onwards. Even when I am not in gear and put the throttle on it still makes this noise so it cannot be the gearbox. I have also had a new clutch installed at the same time.

Yesterday I put in some high octane fuel and fuel additive (Redex) and it did quieten the noise slightly but it is still distinctively there. Could this be a valve on its way out or something else? Please help I am really worried since I have my finals on the way and would like to solve it before just in case on the way to university it doesn't break down. Thank you.

Notay

 

I have a couple possibilities, the vacuum hose is disconnected from the fuel pressure regulator, or there is an opening to the cabin at the base of the steering column. When your gearbox was serviced the subframe was lowered and the steering column disconnected from the steering rack. The column telescopes, so it could have been pushed upwards or pulled downwards and either movement can separated the four components of the column boot at the floor. First check the inside to be sure the white disc is in its boot, and that boot fits over the floor boot, and the floor boot is sealed all around the opening in the floor, then go to the engine bay side and be sure the covering over the boot where the column exits the firewall is sealed on all edges.

 

+1 on the steering column boot . That is a common issue when any kind of transmission work is performed.