31 90... Troubleshooting Shock Absorber

2013 Mini Cooper Countryman, Standard TransSECTION 31 90... Troubleshooting Shock Absorber
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 128i, 2012 BMW 128i, 2011 BMW 128i, 2010 BMW 128i, and 2009 BMW 128i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Read and comply with 31 00... INFORMATION ON REPLACING SHOCK ABSORBERS .

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

Fault Cause Remedy
Wheel knocking (bottoming) Auxiliary spring faulty Visually inspect auxiliary spring for cracking, replace auxiliary spring
AWD only: Visually inspect support ring for damage
Shock absorber leaking (oil/gas) Replace shock absorber
Rattling noise Shock absorber mounting loose Tighten shock absorber
Support bearing faulty/hardened Replace support bearing
Shock absorber leaking (gas/oil) Replace shock absorber
Worn down areas (flattened areas) on tire profile Shock absorber leaking (gas/oil) Replace shock absorber
Long after-swinging of body after driving over rough road Shock absorber leaking (insufficient shock absorber effect) Replace shock absorber
Building-up of body in case of successive uneven surfaces Shock absorber leaking (insufficient shock absorber effect) Replace shock absorber
Wheels jumping even on normal road surfaces Shock absorber leaking (insufficient shock absorber effect) Replace shock absorber
Whistling noises Separating skin in vent holes of auxiliary spring Remove separating skin
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.