Winding down (2)

[J.N.]

Confirmed with the dealer today that the winding down noise after the engine has stopped is the electric steering pump.

Apparently; it's big and drives a hydraulic sytem, running at two speeds depending on the level of assistance required.

This is a revolutionary way of powering steering on a car. Other hydraulic systems are driven off the engine and my previous Fiat Punto had its power steering driven by an electric motor, but the MINI electric motor is pumping hydraulic fluid.

Also explains why its audible over the engine.

[AidenL]

It does sound cool though.......

[J.N.]

Many have complained about the 'whine', but I rather like it.

Gives the sound of the car some character.

Let's hope this wondrous new technology is reliable.

[groovy_jr]

Yep...the sound gets my vote too!