Mini Cooper Power Steering
Power Steering Basics:
The power steering in your Mini Cooper assists you in turning the wheels whichever direction you need them to go. As soon as you start turning the steering wheel, sensors kick in that use hydraulics to turn the tires. Without power steering, it is very difficult to turn the car, but not impossible. Here are some of the key parts of the power steering mechanism and how to tell if they’re working correctly:
Power Steering Pump and Power Steering Motor:
The pump and the motor are the heart and soul of your power steering assembly. Together they:
- Run every other component of the power steering assembly.
- Send fluid through the hydraulics system to move the wheels.
- Disengage the power steering when not in use.
If either of these parts begins to fail, you may experience:
- Fluid underneath your car.
- Difficulty in turning the wheel
- Your Mini makes noise even after motor is shut off.
- Excessive noise coming from the power steering system during normal operation.
- The steering wheel occasionally locks, making all steering impossible.
Power Steering Fan:
The power steering fan, like all other fans in your car, makes sure that your Mini is not overheating. Specifically, the power steering fan ensures that your power steering system is cool and operational. If the power steering fan fails, then the next thing to fail is the pump, and then the motor. Be aware of any dashboard warning lights, or a decrease in the drivability and handling of your Mini Cooper.
Power Steering Fluid:
Without power steering fluid, there would be no power steering. The fluid is sent by the pump to fill the hydraulic cables and move the tires.
If there is a problem anywhere with the power steering fluid, you may notice:
- Fluid leaks underneath the car.
- Impaired ability to turn the steering wheel.
- Steering wheel lock-ups.
If there is a leak in any of the hoses housing the fluid, then your fluid levels will deplete rapidly. This means that your power steering will begin failing.
Power Steering Gear – Rack:
The motor powers the pump, the pump sends the fluid through the hoses, the fluid goes to the gear rack, and the gear rack physically moves the tires. If you’re experiencing any problems with your power steering, then it could be the gear rack as it is the final stopping point along the power steering chain before your wheels begin turning.
What to do:
All of the above parts are critical components in your power steering system. If you find your power steering is malfunctioning in any way, take your Mini to a service expert. For the best service at an excellent price, visit us at the German Car Depot, where we provide the same expert care and service as a Dealership, but at a fraction of the cost to repair.