Hi guys,

Bought a used Cooper 'S' 2003 (52 plate) a few weeks ago and just started getting into the little issues it has so need a helping hand if you could be so kind. There are a few different 'problems' so I hope I don't annoy you by putting them all here and not necessarily in their respective forums. Sorry.

1) when pulling away from stand still, the car often makes a strange loud noise a bit like a squeak but not quite. The only way I can describe it is as if you we're rubbing your finger on glass but a lot louder! - any ideas what this is and what can be done? Would a new clutch stop this or can the clutch be adjusted like older cars used to be able to?

2) the airbag light has randomly come on. I certainly haven't bashed the car! I posted a more detailed explanation of this earlier today, if that helps?

3) the Xenon headlamp washers simply don't work. I was told they work when the lights are on at varied (unpredictable) sequences. I have tried everything I can (long squirts, waiting 5 mins in between squirts etc). I can physically push out the jets from under the bonnet and have checked the pipe work hasn't come loose. There is also plenty of fluid in the reservoir. The windscreen and rear screen washers work perfectly... Is there a fuse or relay that I can access and check or replace?

4) the car has the factory fitted round spot lamps/driving lamps fitted but the near-side one doesn't work. I've tried a new bulb and that makes no difference. I want to remove the lamp and try the off-side lamp in its place to determine if its a fault with the lamp itself of the wiring but I can't seem to undo the nut - tried loads of WD-40 and left it for hours, too but all that happens is the lamp turns with the nut??!! - any tips on this?

Any advice you chaps can give would be appreciated. This is my first ever MINI and also my first "owned" vehicle having driven company cars for the last 10 years!

Thank you!!!

Im not to up on the Mini mate, but im sure someone will be along to help soon.

Hi there Sanj,

I can perhaps help you with one of your questions.

The xenon washer works if you put the lights on, then use the windscreen washer 3 times, on the third time, the lights should get washed automatically. The little "chrome" half disk in the front by the lights hides the washer unit. It opens and the jet will clean your lights. You can check this by either a friend standing in front of the car, or by the spray hitting your side window or bonnet whilst driving.

Hope this helps

NIcky

1 - It is clutch related, could be the thrust bearing is dry or the clutch pack itself is worn...

2 - Common fault with many makes, many peeps get a bypass !

3 - May have a separate pump that is activated when lights are on, check that pump as it is more exposed to the elements!

4 - Good luck !!!