I just bought a 2003 mini cooper 5 speed today. While driving and speeding up, shifting gears, and braking the sterring gives a slight tug and causes the car to swerve. The problem is manageable right now but I don't want to get worse. Any ideas on what the problem may be? I'm planning on checking tie rods tomorrow to make sure there is no give there...

 

Tie rods were my initial thought as well. Don't overlook a bad (shifted belt) tire, either.

Oh, and welcome. Feel free to make an introduction thread when you have a moment - it's general forum courtesy :-)

Edit: Probably due on any 2003, and could (if extremely shot) cause what you are feeling would be the lower control arm bushings. Definitely look those over no matter what. I don't know what the NAM recommended test is, but I always just put a pry bar in there, and try to move it around. The bushing shouldn't flex with moderate pressure.

 

How many miles? Original tranny?

 

Shhh! He may not know about the Midlands yet

 

54000 miles and original tranny

 

So I took the car to a auto shop to pin point the repair and they cant figure it out either...
When I accelerate it has a swift jerk to the left but as I let off the gas it jerks to the left. The faster the car is going the harder the jerk.
Its not the transmission as what some have said...
I dont have a BMW or a Mini dealer here so anyone have any other suggestions?

 

The mini has a history of bushings and engine mount issues...
Check the bushings on a non s...
If they have never been done...they are well past due....
A good alighnment shop might find it, a places that just does an alignments might say they cant do an alighnment...too much play...
Imo find a shop that knows mini's....have them look...it will save you tons of $$.
Where are you?! It is generaly nice to introduce yourself to the community before asking for help...

 

I understand I will introduce myself self thank btw I think I narrowed it down to a bushing or engine mount anyhow... I'm taking it to auto shop the specializes is foreign repair.
I do appreciate all the help

 

I just wanted to say thanks to everyone, I finally figured out the problem. The previous owner had put new struts in the car and only finger tightened 2 of the bolts, so after check all the bolts and tightening those its finally fixed up like new. =)

 

Wow!!
that is a new one?! Talk about doing a job halfway....
good to hear you found it before anything bad happened!!