Power steering probs

[Slashmb]

Hi Guys,

I've already posted in another thread about this old chestnut but the problem seems to be intermitent.

The steering went really heavy last tuesday but turning the engine off fixed it. Then on sunday it happened again and turning engine off fixed it again. Infact it did this twice on sunday but not again since.

When its not working the whine from the pump is not there which makes me think it is the pump at fault but by switching off the engine and restarting straight away fixing it makes me doubt this. Is there anything else I should be checking before I swap the pump?

I don't really want to splash out on a replacement pump if its not that at fault so any ideas would be most welcome.

The car is a 2002 Cooper with 61000 miles.

Thanks in advance.

Mark

[mab01uk]

Almost certainly the electric PS pump. Also check the fluid level in case rack is leaking. This is the pump from BBA-Reman. Possible DIY job if your reasonable at mechanics.
BBA Reman reconditioned pump

[Slashmb]

Thought as much. Any idea on price? I've e-mailed them but cant wait to find out what the ££££ damage is.

Thanks for your reply

Mark

[specky001]

i dont know if you get modern mini magazine but if you do the july edition shows step by step guide to changing the pump, it says its a common problem with some minis, depending on where they're mostly driven, a new pump will cost you about £380 according to the magazine, thats from a dealer, apparently its a fairly straight forward change to complete as well,

luke

[mab01uk]

I think the BBA-Reman one was about £180 (exchange for your old one) or they can rebuild yours if you prefer. The article in Modern Mini is good with photos, also the MINI Haynes workshop manual details what to do.