hi every one,
I have just bought a 2003 mini cooper and think its great but there is a constant loud whining noise which I beleive is the power steering pump, is it normal for it to whine when im not turning though?
If any one knows it would be great because its worrying me.

Thanks
Jon G

The power steering pump will whine loudly if there is the pump is doing the slightest amount of work. If it's whining when it's not doing anything then that's not right.

Tigger.

On lock expect some noise. If it`s very loud when not being used......you got a problem. The mini has a known problem with the s. pump. If you do a "search" you will find info.

jen

The pumps do vary somewhat in noise levels.............mine is a 2002 on 50,000 miles, my pump whines even when not working that hard and gets louder during parking etc, under load and has done so for the last 4 years of my ownership, so don't get too concerned.
Some of the later pumps are a lot quieter but I recently fitted a BBA-Reman reconditioned pump to my son's MINI and was pleased it still made the distinctive MINI whine that I have grown to like as a characteristic of the car!

Mini-Pirate even do a rear window sticker which states "It's Good to Whine!" :biggrin:
Mini Pirate || 2008 || Mini Decals & Graphics (http://www.minipirate.com/gallery.htm)

Thanks for the replies guys. I'll just forget about the noise. hopefully its fine.

Jon