Hi guys i know there's been a problem with the mini power steering pump but not sure if my daughters pump has gone or if its just the characteristics of the mini.

She has a 51 plate Mini one and the power steering makes a bit of a noise on low speeds and general driving the steering is slightly heavy.

Now its not intermittent nor does it take a big burly bloke like me to turn wheel but it does feel quite heavy for a small car.

Now are they all like this or should i get it checked out ?

Having not had or drove a mini before im lost at whether its just like this or its a problem

The steering is heavier than many small cars because it is aimed at sporting drivers who expect the 'go-kart' like more direct steering characteristics similar to the old classic Mini's.
Also the wider the tyres that are fitted the heavier it can feel at low speeds.

The whining noise is also quite normal and a characteristic of the Mk1 MINI, if it stops whining and the steering goes heavy then the pump has failed! :)