Hi,

I drive a 2007 MCS with 65k miles. For about 5k miles I have been experiencing a strange sound/feel when I downshift, usually from 3rd to 2nd, but sometimes from 2nd to 1st (I know, I know...). The sound is a rhythmic chatter/shimmy, and is constant regardless of how long the car has been running/how warm/cold it is.

I explained the noise to my mechanic and he has heard that the stock MINI clutch has this issue, and suggested that an AM clutch as a replacement. The noise also occurs when I put the car into reverse and start to accelerate as I let the clutch go. It sounds as if my RPMs are too low, but the sound occurs even if I give it more gas. You can tell the sound is coming from inside the motor/tranny. I wish I could explain in more detailed car jargon, but that's the extent of my diagnostic lexicon. It's an annoying shaking sound. I can make it go away by accelerating the engine as I downshift and releasing the clutch very, very smoothly, almost annoyingly so, although it's not a real world, everyday clutch releasing behavior.

The clutch was replaced about 30k miles ago under warranty for a strange noise on 2nd gear. I don't think they're related, however.

Is this a known issue with the MINI clutch? I did a search and I can't find anything close to my issue; mine seems to be the only one that occurs when downshifting and releasing the clutch.

Thanks for your help.