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struts replaced, lights no longer self-level

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RickB View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote RickB Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: struts replaced, lights no longer self-level
    Posted: March/16/15 at 9:57pm

Apparently, there's a sensor for the self-leveling headlights on the left-rear, upper suspension control arm; likely it could be deranged while installing new struts?

The lights are now aimed uselessly low, and don't flash up and down when initially turned-on.

'02 Cooper S, Alta pulley, Alta CAI, M7 brace, Madness brace, One-ball, D1 Spec Throttle Controller, ExtremeContact DW, Koni FSD, Boot Box, Glove Box Organizer . . .



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RickB View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote RickB Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: March/17/15 at 2:51pm
Can someone respond with at least a, "Geez, that sucks"?
'02 Cooper S, Alta pulley, Alta CAI, M7 brace, Madness brace, One-ball, D1 Spec Throttle Controller, ExtremeContact DW, Koni FSD, Boot Box, Glove Box Organizer . . .



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CINIMIN View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote CINIMIN Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: March/17/15 at 3:11pm

I have no direct experience with this problem - only thing I might suggest is a visit to North American Motoring - the national MINI club / forums. 

http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/ 

And you are right - it sucks that no one has responded...

Jack -

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Rob N View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Rob N Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: March/18/15 at 6:20am
It is on the Drivers side lower front control arm as I recall.  A little lever with some wires that sits on top of the arm.  Measures the angle.
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Rob N Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: March/18/15 at 6:22am
If they removed the control arm for any reason, the sensor had to be removed.
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Rob N Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: March/18/15 at 11:51am

Looking at pelican parts, apparently there is one in the rear too.  Who knew.  Probably should check them both out and make sure they are attached and wiring connected.

 
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Rob N Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: March/18/15 at 11:54am
I have the Bentley for this car if you need to look at it.  I'm in Mill Creek.
Rob, Vickie and Alice

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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote scoopieb Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: March/18/15 at 9:16pm
Originally posted by RickB RickB wrote:

Apparently, there's a sensor for the self-leveling headlights on the left-rear, upper suspension control arm; likely it could be deranged while installing new struts?

The lights are now aimed uselessly low, and don't flash up and down when initially turned-on.

sorry, been off for a few days.  Yes, there is a self leveling switch and bracket on the driver side lower rca.  When I put on my new rca, I ended up using some hose clamps to hold the bracket on.  Eventually, I'll drill the control arm and attach with screws.  It's worked fine now for about 6K miles.  It's not pretty but it works.  If you want I can take a picture tomorrow and put it up.

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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote RickB Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: March/21/15 at 12:59pm

Sorry, if the "can't someone at least" comment sounded snarky.  I was feeling a bit frustrated with my situation, and looking for some company in my misery. 

Spent $2000 on new struts and tires, excited about how the car would drive, and what do I get but a leaky tire and broken headlights.

The headlight sensor had not been perfectly reinstalled, and was a five-minute fix.

The leaky tire was a bent wheel, and after getting a $200-if-it-doesn't-crack estimate, it cost $90 at another shop.

The car drives nicely, all four tires are holding air, and I can see where I'm going at night!

'02 Cooper S, Alta pulley, Alta CAI, M7 brace, Madness brace, One-ball, D1 Spec Throttle Controller, ExtremeContact DW, Koni FSD, Boot Box, Glove Box Organizer . . .



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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote CINIMIN Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: March/21/15 at 1:06pm

Life is good - especially in a fully functional MINI!

Thanks for posting the follow up.

Jack -

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