Power steering probs - MINI Cooper Forum

Chu346 · #1 (**permalink**) Sep 11th, 2012, 06:04 PM

Hi, I hope you can help me.

I've got problems with my power steering. The car is a MCS R53 late 2003. After 5-10 miles, the power steering stops working unless I stop the car and let it cool down.

I have stripped the pump and cleaned the circuit board but hasn't fixed the fault, although the pump is quiter and steering feels abit smoover now.

The p/s fan works when I have the a/c on and appears to be in good condition and doesnt feel rough when I turn the blades. I have tried driving with the a/c on which doesn't stop it from locking up.

Do I need to get the pump rebuilt, replaced or is there something else I can/need to try first.

Thanks!

Macguyvic · #2 (**permalink**) Sep 11th, 2012, 06:34 PM

Sounds like an electrical problem if steering is affected after the car warms up. How long does it take to cool off before the power steering resumes? If you know someone with a code reader see if any faults show up.

Chu346 · #3 (**permalink**) Sep 11th, 2012, 07:12 PM

On a test run today the p/s locked up, I stopped for less than five minutes and it was working fine for another five miles.

I will enquire about getting the codes read.

mab01uk · #4 (**permalink**) Sep 11th, 2012, 10:45 PM

I suspect a component in the control circuit board is failing under heat, if the clean up did not work you probably need a new or reconditioned pump.....unless you are capable of repairing/diagnosing the possible circuit board fault diy.

PS Pump replacement info:
Power Steering Pump replacement - Forums

Chu346 · #5 (**permalink**) Sep 13th, 2012, 11:47 AM

If I continue to drive it as it is, will there be a danger of the power wires catching fire after it locks up? Is there any other dangers other than stiff steering?

mab01uk · #6 (**permalink**) Sep 13th, 2012, 06:09 PM

If the pump starts to run continuously when the ignition is off there have been cases of the pump motor/wiring overheating and causing a fire, the ps fluid can also get so hot it damages the rubber seals inside the steering rack. If the pump should ever do this pull the ps fuse or disconnect the battery.

There is no problem driving without assistance other than heavy steering.......some on here in the past have driven for several weeks/months with no ps, one owner even prefered it but you will need extra muscles!