How To Identify A Bad Power Steering Pump in Your MINI
How To Identify A Bad Power Steering Pump in Your MINI
At Edmonton MINI, we strive to assist our customer's vehicle ownership experience every step of the way, and with age, vehicles tend to need more maintenance on various components. If your MINI is experiencing any issue, then make sure to bring it in to have one of our experts in the Service Centre look at what's causing the issue. Contact us to schedule an appointment, and our certified technicians will take care of you and your MINI.
MINI's Unique Power Steering Pump
Since MINI models are compact, larger power steering systems are not compatible; thus, MINI has opted to use an Electro-Hydraulic Power Assisted Steering System. This system utilizes both electric and hydraulic steering to deliver adequate assistance.
Symptoms Of Power Steering Pump Failure
Hard to Turn Your Steering Wheel
A prevalent symptom of a failing power pump is stiffer steering, which has much more resistance than you usually had in the past. You will notice that it is challenging to steer when the vehicle is stationary, but it gets slightly better as you start driving. If this symptom is occurring on your MINI, avoid driving it and take it in to get it checked out.
A Whining or Grinding Noise
If the pump makes unusual noises like whining or griding, the fluid may be running low. In that situation, you will want to top off the fluid and monitor its level to see if it leaks. These noises indicate a failing power steering pump, so make sure to have it inspected and reduce your driving to avoid having the pump completely fail as you drive.
Rust Colored Fluid Leak
Keep an eye out for leaks under your MINI, and if you find rust-coloured fluid on the floor, it might be power steering fluid. If that's the case, you will probably have to get a new power steering pump.