Investigations

NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
STEERING - ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
EA07011BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC08/14/200708/13/2008ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
 The office of defects investigation (odi) analyzed consumer complaints to bmw of north america, llc (bmw)and to odi that alleged failures of the electrohydraulic power steering (ehps) used in model year 2002 through 2003 mini cooper vehicles.the analysis determined that 43 of the 52 (83%) reports were related to allegations of power steering loss and 9 (17%) were related to allegations of engine compartment fires. although some of the reports alleging fires note small flames were visible in the engine compartment, analysis of the damage caused by these failures indicates that even the most severe incidents were limited to localized thermal damage to the ehps electrical connections and wiring insulation.none of the complaints alleging loss of power assisted steering indicated that the increased effort resulted in a crash or loss of vehicle control. a safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted. accordingly, this investigation is closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist. the agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by circumstances.see document file for additional information regarding this resume.
PE07022BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC04/19/200708/15/2007ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
 In response to an information request (ir) letter sent by the office of defects investigation (odi), bmw stated that the cause of the alleged defect is an insufficient seal of the ground cable of the power steering pump at its attachment to the chassis.water ingress can occur and the water can travel along the power steering pump power cable and come in contact with the power steering pump power cable connector.the connector can then corrode and a high thermal load condition can occur.according to bmw, this ultimately could result in a localized smoldering condition that does not propagate. to correct the water ingress issue, bmw implemented changes to the wire routing, the power steeringpump connector and the ground eyelet connection between february and july of 2002. in a review of warranty claim data sent by bmw, 67 percent of the vehicles noted in warranty claims had production dates after august 1, 2002. additionally, odi noted eight reports of consumers witnessing flames coming from the engine compartment.this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea07-011) to further assess the scope, frequency andpotential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect.
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
PE07022BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC04/19/200708/15/2007ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
 In response to an information request (ir) letter sent by the office of defects investigation (odi), bmw stated that the cause of the alleged defect is an insufficient seal of the ground cable of the power steering pump at its attachment to the chassis.water ingress can occur and the water can travel along the power steering pump power cable and come in contact with the power steering pump power cable connector.the connector can then corrode and a high thermal load condition can occur.according to bmw, this ultimately could result in a localized smoldering condition that does not propagate. to correct the water ingress issue, bmw implemented changes to the wire routing, the power steeringpump connector and the ground eyelet connection between february and july of 2002. in a review of warranty claim data sent by bmw, 67 percent of the vehicles noted in warranty claims had production dates after august 1, 2002. additionally, odi noted eight reports of consumers witnessing flames coming from the engine compartment.this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea07-011) to further assess the scope, frequency andpotential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect.
EA07011BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC08/14/200708/13/2008ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
 The office of defects investigation (odi) analyzed consumer complaints to bmw of north america, llc (bmw)and to odi that alleged failures of the electrohydraulic power steering (ehps) used in model year 2002 through 2003 mini cooper vehicles.the analysis determined that 43 of the 52 (83%) reports were related to allegations of power steering loss and 9 (17%) were related to allegations of engine compartment fires. although some of the reports alleging fires note small flames were visible in the engine compartment, analysis of the damage caused by these failures indicates that even the most severe incidents were limited to localized thermal damage to the ehps electrical connections and wiring insulation.none of the complaints alleging loss of power assisted steering indicated that the increased effort resulted in a crash or loss of vehicle control. a safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted. accordingly, this investigation is closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist. the agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by circumstances.see document file for additional information regarding this resume.
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - PUMP
EA07011BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC08/14/200708/13/2008ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
 The office of defects investigation (odi) analyzed consumer complaints to bmw of north america, llc (bmw)and to odi that alleged failures of the electrohydraulic power steering (ehps) used in model year 2002 through 2003 mini cooper vehicles.the analysis determined that 43 of the 52 (83%) reports were related to allegations of power steering loss and 9 (17%) were related to allegations of engine compartment fires. although some of the reports alleging fires note small flames were visible in the engine compartment, analysis of the damage caused by these failures indicates that even the most severe incidents were limited to localized thermal damage to the ehps electrical connections and wiring insulation.none of the complaints alleging loss of power assisted steering indicated that the increased effort resulted in a crash or loss of vehicle control. a safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted. accordingly, this investigation is closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist. the agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by circumstances.see document file for additional information regarding this resume.
PE07022BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC04/19/200708/15/2007ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
 In response to an information request (ir) letter sent by the office of defects investigation (odi), bmw stated that the cause of the alleged defect is an insufficient seal of the ground cable of the power steering pump at its attachment to the chassis.water ingress can occur and the water can travel along the power steering pump power cable and come in contact with the power steering pump power cable connector.the connector can then corrode and a high thermal load condition can occur.according to bmw, this ultimately could result in a localized smoldering condition that does not propagate. to correct the water ingress issue, bmw implemented changes to the wire routing, the power steeringpump connector and the ground eyelet connection between february and july of 2002. in a review of warranty claim data sent by bmw, 67 percent of the vehicles noted in warranty claims had production dates after august 1, 2002. additionally, odi noted eight reports of consumers witnessing flames coming from the engine compartment.this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea07-011) to further assess the scope, frequency andpotential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect.
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
PE07022BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC04/19/200708/15/2007ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
 In response to an information request (ir) letter sent by the office of defects investigation (odi), bmw stated that the cause of the alleged defect is an insufficient seal of the ground cable of the power steering pump at its attachment to the chassis.water ingress can occur and the water can travel along the power steering pump power cable and come in contact with the power steering pump power cable connector.the connector can then corrode and a high thermal load condition can occur.according to bmw, this ultimately could result in a localized smoldering condition that does not propagate. to correct the water ingress issue, bmw implemented changes to the wire routing, the power steeringpump connector and the ground eyelet connection between february and july of 2002. in a review of warranty claim data sent by bmw, 67 percent of the vehicles noted in warranty claims had production dates after august 1, 2002. additionally, odi noted eight reports of consumers witnessing flames coming from the engine compartment.this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea07-011) to further assess the scope, frequency andpotential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect.
EA07011BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC08/14/200708/13/2008ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
 The office of defects investigation (odi) analyzed consumer complaints to bmw of north america, llc (bmw)and to odi that alleged failures of the electrohydraulic power steering (ehps) used in model year 2002 through 2003 mini cooper vehicles.the analysis determined that 43 of the 52 (83%) reports were related to allegations of power steering loss and 9 (17%) were related to allegations of engine compartment fires. although some of the reports alleging fires note small flames were visible in the engine compartment, analysis of the damage caused by these failures indicates that even the most severe incidents were limited to localized thermal damage to the ehps electrical connections and wiring insulation.none of the complaints alleging loss of power assisted steering indicated that the increased effort resulted in a crash or loss of vehicle control. a safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted. accordingly, this investigation is closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist. the agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by circumstances.see document file for additional information regarding this resume.

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
STEERING
09/01/2011123000
 In september 2011, i was driving my 2003 mini cooper s at 55mph on a rural two lane highway when i experienced a momentary loss power steering of power steering. this resulted in the wheel becoming very difficult to turn. when power steering returned (without warning), my car swerved but i was able to keep it on the road. this happened several times over the next 20 miles before i lost power steering and it did not return.when i arrived home, i checked the power steering pump and it was non-operational. i replaced the pump and its dedicated cooling fan. in august 2012 (125000 miles), i again lost power steering at highway speeds. the second failure was identical to the first (suddenly came and went before cutting out and not returning).
01/26/2013100389
 The steering on my '03 mini cooper started making whining/ groaning noises that were not the normal steering noises. the steering has limited power boost, sometimes near normal, other times almost no boost. the steering doesn't return to straight as it used to. after making a right or left turn, the car keeps trying to turn the last direction steered. with effort, i can hold the car straight, but it pulls noticeably the last direction turned. the electric steering motor groans, changing speed up and down, even when the car is not moving. all fluid levels are normal and there are no leaks or drips of any fluid. the power steering fan and radiator cooling fan are operating correctly. the steering effort is not consistent. sometimes at expressway speeds, as well as slower surface street speeds, the steering stiffens up where it requires much effort to control, then minutes later, will go back to normal boost levels. this often happens when negotiating lane changes or expressway ramps with what should be a steady rate turn. an independent mechanic states the electro- hydraulic steering pump is causing these issues and that bmw is aware of this problem.
09/01/2011123000
 In september 2011, i was driving my 2003 mini cooper s at 55mph on a rural two lane highway when i experienced a momentary loss power steering of power steering. this resulted in the wheel becoming very difficult to turn. when power steering returned (without warning), my car swerved but i was able to keep it on the road. this happened several times over the next 20 miles before i lost power steering and it did not return.when i arrived home, i checked the power steering pump and it was non-operational. i replaced the pump and its dedicated cooling fan. in august 2012 (125000 miles), i again lost power steering at highway speeds. the second failure was identical to the first (suddenly came and went before cutting out and not returning).
01/26/2013100389
 The steering on my '03 mini cooper started making whining/ groaning noises that were not the normal steering noises. the steering has limited power boost, sometimes near normal, other times almost no boost. the steering doesn't return to straight as it used to. after making a right or left turn, the car keeps trying to turn the last direction steered. with effort, i can hold the car straight, but it pulls noticeably the last direction turned. the electric steering motor groans, changing speed up and down, even when the car is not moving. all fluid levels are normal and there are no leaks or drips of any fluid. the power steering fan and radiator cooling fan are operating correctly. the steering effort is not consistent. sometimes at expressway speeds, as well as slower surface street speeds, the steering stiffens up where it requires much effort to control, then minutes later, will go back to normal boost levels. this often happens when negotiating lane changes or expressway ramps with what should be a steady rate turn. an independent mechanic states the electro- hydraulic steering pump is causing these issues and that bmw is aware of this problem.
09/01/2011123000
 In september 2011, i was driving my 2003 mini cooper s at 55mph on a rural two lane highway when i experienced a momentary loss power steering of power steering. this resulted in the wheel becoming very difficult to turn. when power steering returned (without warning), my car swerved but i was able to keep it on the road. this happened several times over the next 20 miles before i lost power steering and it did not return.when i arrived home, i checked the power steering pump and it was non-operational. i replaced the pump and its dedicated cooling fan. in august 2012 (125000 miles), i again lost power steering at highway speeds. the second failure was identical to the first (suddenly came and went before cutting out and not returning).
01/26/2013100389
 The steering on my '03 mini cooper started making whining/ groaning noises that were not the normal steering noises. the steering has limited power boost, sometimes near normal, other times almost no boost. the steering doesn't return to straight as it used to. after making a right or left turn, the car keeps trying to turn the last direction steered. with effort, i can hold the car straight, but it pulls noticeably the last direction turned. the electric steering motor groans, changing speed up and down, even when the car is not moving. all fluid levels are normal and there are no leaks or drips of any fluid. the power steering fan and radiator cooling fan are operating correctly. the steering effort is not consistent. sometimes at expressway speeds, as well as slower surface street speeds, the steering stiffens up where it requires much effort to control, then minutes later, will go back to normal boost levels. this often happens when negotiating lane changes or expressway ramps with what should be a steady rate turn. an independent mechanic states the electro- hydraulic steering pump is causing these issues and that bmw is aware of this problem.
09/01/2011123000
 In september 2011, i was driving my 2003 mini cooper s at 55mph on a rural two lane highway when i experienced a momentary loss power steering of power steering. this resulted in the wheel becoming very difficult to turn. when power steering returned (without warning), my car swerved but i was able to keep it on the road. this happened several times over the next 20 miles before i lost power steering and it did not return.when i arrived home, i checked the power steering pump and it was non-operational. i replaced the pump and its dedicated cooling fan. in august 2012 (125000 miles), i again lost power steering at highway speeds. the second failure was identical to the first (suddenly came and went before cutting out and not returning).
01/26/2013100389
 The steering on my '03 mini cooper started making whining/ groaning noises that were not the normal steering noises. the steering has limited power boost, sometimes near normal, other times almost no boost. the steering doesn't return to straight as it used to. after making a right or left turn, the car keeps trying to turn the last direction steered. with effort, i can hold the car straight, but it pulls noticeably the last direction turned. the electric steering motor groans, changing speed up and down, even when the car is not moving. all fluid levels are normal and there are no leaks or drips of any fluid. the power steering fan and radiator cooling fan are operating correctly. the steering effort is not consistent. sometimes at expressway speeds, as well as slower surface street speeds, the steering stiffens up where it requires much effort to control, then minutes later, will go back to normal boost levels. this often happens when negotiating lane changes or expressway ramps with what should be a steady rate turn. an independent mechanic states the electro- hydraulic steering pump is causing these issues and that bmw is aware of this problem.
11/15/2012840001
 Power steering pump is beginning to fail. from reports i have read i am worried that the car will catch on fire and in turn catch my house on fire. *tr
11/15/201284000
 Power steering pump is beginning to fail. from reports i have read i am worried that the car will catch on fire and in turn catch my house on fire.
01/13/2013832431
 Parked vehicle in home garage and the power steering pump continued to run even when key is removed. i was familiar with this issue as many other owners have experienced it and reported. refer to nhtsa action number : ea11005. the pump will continue to run until battery depletes or fire occurs. there is no cooling provided by dedicated cooling fan when vehicle is off. i disconnected the battery to stop pump from overheating. *tr
01/13/201383243
 Parked vehicle in home garage and the power steering pump continued to run even when key is removed. i was familiar with this issue as many other owners have experienced it and reported. refer to nhtsa action number : ea11005. the pump will continue to run until battery depletes or fire occurs. there is no cooling provided by dedicated cooling fan when vehicle is off. i disconnected the battery to stop pump from overheating.
12/14/2012136420
 Powersteering unit fails and steering becomes unreponsive
11/12/20121130001
 Driving home from work getting off the turnpike to take my exit right, my 2003 mini cooper kept going straight. very frightening experience as i could not turn the wheel coming off highway speeds. there is no warning at all when this happens, you just cannot turn the wheel to negotiate your turn. i've driven cars without power steering, but when you have an electric power steering failure it is impossible to steer this car. bmw must take responsibility for this well documented dangerous failure and do the right thing or someone is going to get seriously hurt and/or hurt someone else. cost to fix the steering pump failure - $1200.00. *tr
11/12/2012113000
 Driving home from work getting off the turnpike to take my exit right, my 2003 mini cooper kept going straight. very frightening experience as i could not turn the wheel coming off highway speeds. there is no warning at all when this happens, you just cannot turn the wheel to negotiate your turn. i've driven cars without power steering, but when you have an electric power steering failure it is impossible to steer this car. bmw must take responsibility for this well documented dangerous failure and do the right thing or someone is going to get seriously hurt and/or hurt someone else. cost to fix the steering pump failure - $1200.00.
10/01/2012530001
 Electric power steering pump stop functioning while driving. sudden lost of power steering. difficult to steer. this is the second pump that was replaced on the vehicle about two years ago. the first pump stop working about two years ago. *tr
10/01/201253000
 Electric power steering pump stop functioning while driving. sudden lost of power steering. difficult to steer. this is the second pump that was replaced on the vehicle about two years ago. the first pump stop working about two years ago.
07/11/2012730001
 The power steering pump fails causing a loss of power steering in my vehicle while driving. this sporadically occurs while driving causing a safety hazard as it becomes very difficult to steer the vehicle. *tr
07/11/201273000
 The power steering pump fails causing a loss of power steering in my vehicle while driving. this sporatically occurs while driving causing a safety hazard as it becomes very difficult to steer the vehicle.
03/03/2012139158
 The power steering quit while driving on interstate (i85) on march 3, 2012. we had just purchased the car so we took it back to dealer and he had the pump and reservoir replaced (took 2 weeks). power steering just went out again (09/26/12) with same symptoms (sporadic operation - mainly not working) while driving to work.
09/09/2012523001
 I drove my car to my sports team practice, parked and promptly had to relocate my car to an adjacent lot. the power steering did not work upon starting the car to move it and there was no evidence or warning of it's failure. not even the check engine light went on. *tr
09/06/2012850001
 As i was pulling away from a stop sign, i realized that i couldn't turn the steering wheel. i put the car in reverse and went back and forth trying to see if something was stuck. i did this a couple times, then realized my power steering was out. i checked the fluids and they were fine. took the car to a mechanic and they ran diagnostic tests and determined the power steering pump was faulty. *tr
09/09/2012523001
 I drove my car to my sports team practice, parked and promptly had to relocate my car to an adjacent lot. the power steering did not work upon starting the car to move it and there was no evidence or warning of it's failure. not even the check engine light went on. *tr
09/06/2012850001
 As i was pulling away from a stop sign, i realized that i couldn't turn the steering wheel. i put the car in reverse and went back and forth trying to see if something was stuck. i did this a couple times, then realized my power steering was out. i checked the fluids and they were fine. took the car to a mechanic and they ran diagnostic tests and determined the power steering pump was faulty. *tr
09/09/201252300
 I drove my car to my sports team practice, parked and promptly had to relocate my car to an adjacent lot. the power steering did not work upon starting the car to move it and there was no evidence or warning of it's failure. not even the check engine light went on.
09/06/201285000
 As i was pulling away from a stop sign, i realized that i couldn't turn the steering wheel. i put the car in reverse and went back and forth trying to see if something was stuck. i did this a couple times, then realized my power steering was out. i checked the fluids and they were fine. took the car to a mechanic and they ran diagnostic tests and determined the power steering pump was faulty.
09/09/201252300
 I drove my car to my sports team practice, parked and promptly had to relocate my car to an adjacent lot. the power steering did not work upon starting the car to move it and there was no evidence or warning of it's failure. not even the check engine light went on.
09/06/201285000
 As i was pulling away from a stop sign, i realized that i couldn't turn the steering wheel. i put the car in reverse and went back and forth trying to see if something was stuck. i did this a couple times, then realized my power steering was out. i checked the fluids and they were fine. took the car to a mechanic and they ran diagnostic tests and determined the power steering pump was faulty.
08/27/2012640001
 Complete power steering failure. faulty/failed pump internal control circuitry. *tr
08/27/201264000
 Complete power steering failure. faulty/failed pump internal control circuitry.
07/16/20121220001
 After leaving the highway and negotiating the off ramp, the power steering simply stopped working. the steering became extremely difficult so i pulled over, shut the car off and lifted hood to inspect. the was no visual indication of issues an fluid level is fine. after restarting the steering worked fine again. several days later the same situation occurred in the middle of a corner, it was all i could to maintain control through the corner. i read where there was some opinions that if power steering cooling fan was bad it could cause this to happen so i replaced. still happens intermittently. i will likely pull the steering unit to inspect but the biggest issue is it gives a false sense of security. when you restart the engine everything seems ok so you continue, sometimes for weeks. the problem is that the failure can occur in the middle of a turn and cause a serious accident. there is also no lighted indication of the failure on your dash, so you don,t expect it. this will end up killing someone if it hasn't already. *tr
07/16/2012122000
 After leaving the highway and negotiating the off ramp, the power steering simply stopped working. the steering became extremely difficult so i pulled over, shut the car off and lifted hood to inspect. the was no visual indication of issues an fluid level is fine. after restarting the steering worked fine again. several days later the same situation occurred in the middle of a corner, it was all i could to maintain control through the corner. i read where there was some opinions that if power steering cooling fan was bad it could cause this to happen so i replaced. still happens intermittently. i will likely pull the steering unit to inspect but the biggest issue is it gives a false sense of security. when you restart the engine everything seems ok so you continue, sometimes for weeks. the problem is that the failure can occur in the middle of a turn and cause a serious accident. there is also no lighted indication of the failure on your dash, so you don,t expect it. this will end up killing someone if it hasn't already
07/29/2012950001
 Was stopped in parking lot, fire started in engine bay. power steering has been intermittent for awhile. shop indicated that the fan failed and caused the pump/wiring to completely melt. this issue is widely known and found on mini cooper forums. *tr
07/29/201295000
 Was stopped in parking lot, fire started in engine bay. power steering has been intermittent for awhile. shop indicated that the fan failed and caused the pump/wiring to completely melt. this issue is widely known and found on mini cooper forums.
07/20/20121
 Power steering pump is whining and according to dealer is going to fail at anytime. unfortunately this unit does not fail in the driveway it fails while driving the vehicle. hopefully i will be driving when this happens as my wife will not have the strength to get the car under control. there has been a recall in canada for this same problem and all of us mini drivers in the us are wondering why we don't have a recall here. *tr
07/20/2012
 Power steering pump is whining and according to dealer is going to fail at anytime. unfortunately this unit does not fail in the driveway it fails while driving the vehicle. hopefully i will be driving when this happens as my wife will not have the strength to get the car under control. there has been a recall in canada for this same problem and all of us mini drivers in the us are wondering why we don't have a recall here.
07/09/2012866001
 I was going around a 90 degree corner at about 15 mph when the steering seemed to lock up. i quickly realized that the power steering had failed, and i wrestled the steering wheel to complete the turn. since then, the power steering has not worked 90% of the time. *tr
07/09/201286600
 I was going around a 90 degree corner at about 15 mph when the steering seemed to lock up. i quickly realized that the power steering had failed, and i wrestled the steering wheel to complete the turn. since then, the power steering has not worked 90% of the time.
06/01/2010
 Power steering failed, making it very difficult to steer. nearly impossible to turn wheel while stopped. my wife can barely drive the car. from researching this site and other sites, my situation seems to be the same as thousands of others, and i would like my name to be added to the current investigation.
05/26/2012140000
 I purchased a used mini cooper s six months ago, in december 2011. i drove my vehicle as i normally due, just across town about 10 miles, and it was fine. i parked my car and went inside. when i came out, about 10-15 minutes later, and tried to back out of the driveway, the power steering was non-existent. i pulled back into the driveway and checked the fluid level and let the car cool down for a few more minutes. when i restarted the car, the power steering was back. since then, the power steering is intermittent. if the car is hot, it usually does not work, but if the car is given a chance to cool down, then it seems to work, but the problem is occurring more and more frequently and i have found many complaints from other mini owners.
05/15/2012
 I drove my 2003 mini cooper s to my local department of transportation to renew my driver's license. nothing abnormal occurred on the trip to the dmv. when i got in and began to drive home, there was no power steering. later that evening, i started the car when it was cool and the power steering was back until the car warmed up. the radiator fan and the power steering fan do not function upon doing research on the internet, i have found that this problem occurs extremely often in 2002-2007 minis. i also found, posted on a mini forum by someone claiming to be an engineer, a diagnosis of the problem. carbon dust from the electric motor that operates the power steering pump gets into the control unit attached to it. since the chip was not properly sealed with a lacquer, it causees a short circuit in the chip. this causes the pump to fail. another possible cause is the failure of the cooling fan for the power steering pump. the fan can seize, stop cooling the pump, and eventually it will overheat. this also trips a fuse that stops the radiator fan. as a result, the engine can also overheat. i have determined that the fan has stopped working. since i have only had this car since the middle of winter and the has been the only warm day i have driven it, this was the first time i noticed it. i plan to avoid the $1000 charge to have it replaced at the dealer by repairing it myself but many people are not this fortunate. i believe this design flaw can and will cause serious accidents to occur. if my mother, sister, or girlfriend had been driving my car on the highway when it failed, they would not have been able to steer resulting in a serious crash. while perusing various mini forums, i have read stories of several serious crashes. i would like to see a recall on all 2002-2007 mini coopers so that this problem can not harm someone.
05/11/2012119560
 While driving, it felt as though my power steering had gone out. i continued to drive to my location. once in the parking lot, steering became near impossible, especially while going at very slow speeds. when i went to back out of my parking spot that evening, it was unable to be done, causing me to call a tow truck to tow my car.
05/15/2012
 I drove my 2003 mini cooper s to my local department of transportation to renew my driver's license. nothing abnormal occurred on the trip to the dmv. when i got in and began to drive home, there was no power steering. later that evening, i started the car when it was cool and the power steering was back until the car warmed up. the radiator fan and the power steering fan do not function upon doing research on the internet, i have found that this problem occurs extremely often in 2002-2007 minis. i also found, posted on a mini forum by someone claiming to be an engineer, a diagnosis of the problem. carbon dust from the electric motor that operates the power steering pump gets into the control unit attached to it. since the chip was not properly sealed with a lacquer, it causees a short circuit in the chip. this causes the pump to fail. another possible cause is the failure of the cooling fan for the power steering pump. the fan can seize, stop cooling the pump, and eventually it will overheat. this also trips a fuse that stops the radiator fan. as a result, the engine can also overheat. i have determined that the fan has stopped working. since i have only had this car since the middle of winter and the has been the only warm day i have driven it, this was the first time i noticed it. i plan to avoid the $1000 charge to have it replaced at the dealer by repairing it myself but many people are not this fortunate. i believe this design flaw can and will cause serious accidents to occur. if my mother, sister, or girlfriend had been driving my car on the highway when it failed, they would not have been able to steer resulting in a serious crash. while perusing various mini forums, i have read stories of several serious crashes. i would like to see a recall on all 2002-2007 mini coopers so that this problem can not harm someone.
05/11/2012119560
 While driving, it felt as though my power steering had gone out. i continued to drive to my location. once in the parking lot, steering became near impossible, especially while going at very slow speeds. when i went to back out of my parking spot that evening, it was unable to be done, causing me to call a tow truck to tow my car.
05/15/2012
 I drove my 2003 mini cooper s to my local department of transportation to renew my driver's license. nothing abnormal occurred on the trip to the dmv. when i got in and began to drive home, there was no power steering. later that evening, i started the car when it was cool and the power steering was back until the car warmed up. the radiator fan and the power steering fan do not function upon doing research on the internet, i have found that this problem occurs extremely often in 2002-2007 minis. i also found, posted on a mini forum by someone claiming to be an engineer, a diagnosis of the problem. carbon dust from the electric motor that operates the power steering pump gets into the control unit attached to it. since the chip was not properly sealed with a lacquer, it causees a short circuit in the chip. this causes the pump to fail. another possible cause is the failure of the cooling fan for the power steering pump. the fan can seize, stop cooling the pump, and eventually it will overheat. this also trips a fuse that stops the radiator fan. as a result, the engine can also overheat. i have determined that the fan has stopped working. since i have only had this car since the middle of winter and the has been the only warm day i have driven it, this was the first time i noticed it. i plan to avoid the $1000 charge to have it replaced at the dealer by repairing it myself but many people are not this fortunate. i believe this design flaw can and will cause serious accidents to occur. if my mother, sister, or girlfriend had been driving my car on the highway when it failed, they would not have been able to steer resulting in a serious crash. while perusing various mini forums, i have read stories of several serious crashes. i would like to see a recall on all 2002-2007 mini coopers so that this problem can not harm someone.
05/11/2012119560
 While driving, it felt as though my power steering had gone out. i continued to drive to my location. once in the parking lot, steering became near impossible, especially while going at very slow speeds. when i went to back out of my parking spot that evening, it was unable to be done, causing me to call a tow truck to tow my car.
04/01/2012125559
 The power steering went out just after i purchased it. i see that there are multiple complaints about this problem for nearly every year model that this vehicle has been produced for the american market. i called a local dealership to see if there was a recall and i stated that message boards online were loaded with angry customers complaining about the same thing. they refused to admit that there's a problem and want to charge me $2500! please, nhtsa, do something about this!
01/20/201279000
 Steering pump failed and had to be replaced.
12/13/201172000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while driving at approximately 25 mph the steering wheel became stiff and difficult to maneuver. the contact restarted the vehicle and regained power steering. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic. the mechanic stated the electric power steering pump would have to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 72,000. ds
11/16/2011107000
 Power steering pump failed, steering became very difficult. pump remained on after car was turned off and drained battery, now car will not run. very dangerous issue!
11/14/200760000
 Attempting to turn into school parking lot, power steering abruptly stopped working, steering wheel became extremely difficult to turn. the power steering has intermittently faltered several times in the last year but has now failed entirely.
10/11/2011102890
 2003 mini cooper s. car over heated and power steering failed. pulled off to the side of the road. fan on power steering pump failed, caused pump to fail and car to over heat.
06/01/2011
 Power steering failed after 27,000 miles. intermittently works for 5 minutes in the morning and sometimes intermittently functions when driving which creates a dagerous situation. had the mini dealer inspect it from mini corporates recommendation. dealer indicated the electronics are malfunctioning and that they had plenty of replacement units in stock for circa $1,600.00. my claim was rejected because it is not uncommon for earlier mini cooper power steering units to fail. i have investigated and there are multiple companies now in the business of rebuilding/remanufacturing specifically mini cooper power steering units. odd that a relatively low volume vehicle could generate soo many business opportuinities to fix a problem that apparently does not exist.
10/10/2011120524
 Electric power steering pump went out without any warning. i noticed it when i was going around a bend and the steering effort had greatly increased. if i had to make a emergency manuver, i probably would not have been able to complete it successfully.
08/31/201150000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 10 mph, the power steering completely failed without warning causing difficulty in maneuvering the steering wheel. the contact pulled over to the side of the road and the engine was turned off. upon restarting, the contact resumed cautiously with the steering malfunction. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who advised that the failure was related to the power steering pump. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the failure mileage was 50,000.
08/31/201150000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 10 mph, the power steering completely failed without warning causing difficulty in maneuvering the steering wheel. the contact pulled over to the side of the road and the engine was turned off. upon restarting, the contact resumed cautiously with the steering malfunction. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who advised that the failure was related to the power steering pump. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the failure mileage was 50,000. kmj
08/31/201150000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 10 mph, the power steering completely failed to function without warning causing difficulty in maneuvering the steering wheel. the contact pulled over to the side of the road and the engine was turned off. upon restarting, the contact resumed cautiously with the steering malfunction. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated the failure was related to the faulty power steering pump. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the failure mileage was 50,000. js
09/15/201159356
 Power assist steering failed to assist making it extremely difficult to turn a corner
08/18/201161000
 Power steering unit on my 2003 mini cooper s started to operate intermittently making it very difficult to maintain lane control. without power steering i would grip hard and barely make it through a turn, then the power steering would operate causing me to oversteer into the adjacent lanes or oncoming traffic. i've been driving cars, trucks and motorcycles for over 40 yrs and have never experienced a driving situation as dangerous as this. i will no longer allow my daughters to drive this car until i feel confident the problem is resolved.
08/26/2011114000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the contact stated that accelerating from a stop and attempting a turn at approximately 5 mph, the power steering would seize and become difficult to maneuver. the vehicle was not inspected by a dealer nor repaired. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure and current mileages were approximately 114,000. kmj
08/26/2011114000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the contact stated that when after leaving a stop and making a turn, the power steering suddenly became difficult to manuever. the vehicle has not been inspected by a dealer nor has it been repaired. the manufacturer has not been contacted either. the failure and current mileages were approximately 114,000. tb
08/17/201188000
 Complete power steering failure, on surface road in castro valley, ca. the sudden loss of power steering caused me to continue straight, while trying to regain control of car, i continued into on coming traffic, if another car was in opposite direction a significant accident would have occured. prior to this failure this was no evidence of a repair needed.
07/28/201170000
 2003 mini cooper s power steering box failure only 70,000 miles.
07/25/201187000
 Power steering pump started to become louder around 83k miles. when i was driving around a turn, the steering wheel tightened up and it became almost impossible to turn the wheel. i almost wrecked because of this. after research, it is concluded that my power steering gave out. nothing has been done yet to correct the failure.
07/23/201158000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the contact stated while driving 65 mph the power steering fail. the vehicle was pulled off the road because the steering was very hard to maneuver. the dealer was contacted in regards to a recall and stated only a class action law suit was going on. the contact was told to bring the vehicle in for repairs but she would have to pay for the repairs. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 58,000...mw
07/25/201187000
 Power steering pump started to become louder around 83k miles. when i was driving around a turn, the steering wheel tightened up and it became almost impossible to turn the wheel. i almost wrecked because of this. after research, it is concluded that my power steering gave out. nothing has been done yet to correct the failure.
07/23/201158000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the contact stated while driving 65 mph the power steering fail. the vehicle was pulled off the road because the steering was very hard to maneuver. the dealer was contacted in regards to a recall and stated only a class action law suit was going on. the contact was told to bring the vehicle in for repairs but she would have to pay for the repairs. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 58,000...mw
07/25/201187000
 Power steering pump started to become louder around 83k miles. when i was driving around a turn, the steering wheel tightened up and it became almost impossible to turn the wheel. i almost wrecked because of this. after research, it is concluded that my power steering gave out. nothing has been done yet to correct the failure.
07/23/201158000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the contact stated while driving 65 mph the power steering fail. the vehicle was pulled off the road because the steering was very hard to maneuver. the dealer was contacted in regards to a recall and stated only a class action law suit was going on. the contact was told to bring the vehicle in for repairs but she would have to pay for the repairs. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 58,000...mw
07/11/201186900
 Power steering abruptly failed in rush hour traffic. was fortunately able to get vehicle to the shop for repair without further incident. power steering failures are unfortunately almost guaranteed in my year and make vehicle. the independent mechanic said that this is a very common complaint and mini usa has even redesigned the power steering pump due to the high failure rate, and also recommended replacing the fan due to high likelihood of shorting or fire. i participate in an enthusiast forum where these reports are common which is why i took it to the shop immediately, to avoid further in-driving failure or worse, a car fire. this issue has been investigated in the past and it is unconscionable that neither nhtsa nor mini usa has recalled these vehicles for what is an almost guaranteed failure eith obvious and potentially grave safety risks. i am paying $1200 for the repair which is expensive but not out of line with what others are paying and worth my personal piece of mind since mini usa will not publicly admit there is a problem. vehicle is a 2003 mini cooper s with 87,000 miles.
07/08/201162220
 Sudden loss of steering due to the failure of the power steering pump when exiting highway. fortunately, i had enough strength to stay within the curve of the off ramp while braking to a stop. my wife would not have had the strength to keep the auto from going off the ramp.
07/11/201186900
 Power steering abruptly failed in rush hour traffic. was fortunately able to get vehicle to the shop for repair without further incident. power steering failures are unfortunately almost guaranteed in my year and make vehicle. the independent mechanic said that this is a very common complaint and mini usa has even redesigned the power steering pump due to the high failure rate, and also recommended replacing the fan due to high likelihood of shorting or fire. i participate in an enthusiast forum where these reports are common which is why i took it to the shop immediately, to avoid further in-driving failure or worse, a car fire. this issue has been investigated in the past and it is unconscionable that neither nhtsa nor mini usa has recalled these vehicles for what is an almost guaranteed failure eith obvious and potentially grave safety risks. i am paying $1200 for the repair which is expensive but not out of line with what others are paying and worth my personal piece of mind since mini usa will not publicly admit there is a problem. vehicle is a 2003 mini cooper s with 87,000 miles.
07/08/201162220
 Sudden loss of steering due to the failure of the power steering pump when exiting highway. fortunately, i had enough strength to stay within the curve of the off ramp while braking to a stop. my wife would not have had the strength to keep the auto from going off the ramp.
07/11/201186900
 Power steering abruptly failed in rush hour traffic. was fortunately able to get vehicle to the shop for repair without further incident. power steering failures are unfortunately almost guaranteed in my year and make vehicle. the independent mechanic said that this is a very common complaint and mini usa has even redesigned the power steering pump due to the high failure rate, and also recommended replacing the fan due to high likelihood of shorting or fire. i participate in an enthusiast forum where these reports are common which is why i took it to the shop immediately, to avoid further in-driving failure or worse, a car fire. this issue has been investigated in the past and it is unconscionable that neither nhtsa nor mini usa has recalled these vehicles for what is an almost guaranteed failure eith obvious and potentially grave safety risks. i am paying $1200 for the repair which is expensive but not out of line with what others are paying and worth my personal piece of mind since mini usa will not publicly admit there is a problem. vehicle is a 2003 mini cooper s with 87,000 miles.
07/08/201162220
 Sudden loss of steering due to the failure of the power steering pump when exiting highway. fortunately, i had enough strength to stay within the curve of the off ramp while braking to a stop. my wife would not have had the strength to keep the auto from going off the ramp.
06/16/201122800
 Power steering has become intermittent. when the car is started, sometimes the power steering is functioning and sometimes it is not.
02/10/2011106000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while the contact started the ignition, the power steering warning indicator illuminated with a sudden loss of power steering. a strong electrical burning odor emitted inside of the vehicle. the failure occurred six different times when the vehicle was in motion. the authorized dealer was notified and advised the vehicle be diagnosed to locate the problem. the contact planned to take the vehicle to the dealer. the manufacturer was not made aware of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 106,000. js
06/16/201122800
 Power steering has become intermittent. when the car is started, sometimes the power steering is functioning and sometimes it is not.
02/10/2011106000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while the contact started the ignition, the power steering warning indicator illuminated with a sudden loss of power steering. a strong electrical burning odor emitted inside of the vehicle. the failure occurred six different times when the vehicle was in motion. the authorized dealer was notified and advised the vehicle be diagnosed to locate the problem. the contact planned to take the vehicle to the dealer. the manufacturer was not made aware of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 106,000. js
06/16/201122800
 Power steering has become intermittent. when the car is started, sometimes the power steering is functioning and sometimes it is not.
02/10/2011106000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while the contact started the ignition, the power steering warning indicator illuminated with a sudden loss of power steering. a strong electrical burning odor emitted inside of the vehicle. the failure occurred six different times when the vehicle was in motion. the authorized dealer was notified and advised the vehicle be diagnosed to locate the problem. the contact planned to take the vehicle to the dealer. the manufacturer was not made aware of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 106,000. js
06/02/201178551
 While driving at a speed of approximately 35-40, the power steering assist failed completely. the car became almost impossible to steer and created a very unsafe moment as i made a 90 degree turn. i was able to get the car home with great physical effort involved. the problem seems exactly as described in on-line descriptions from other mini owners. it is a very dangerous condition .... it is also very expensive to repair. i am surprised that a recall has not been required due to the obvious safety issue!
02/20/2011118000
 Power steering pump failure. the failure happend on a snow covered curvy road, lost control and went into the ditch. no damage, was able to get the car slowed enough before crashing. thankful no other cars were in the other lane. was able to drive the car out under its own power. will not drive the car now.
05/05/201177000
 Hi, i'm the third owner of a 2003 mini cooper s since february 2010, located in montreal, quebec, canada. in the begining of may 2011 my car started to have big issues with the power steering. the power steering pump is running discontinous, all the lights (front, back and dashboard) are dimming and after just afew miles of driving the steering wheel becomes stiff and hard to turn. i have this problem now everyday when i try to drive the car. i've checked the power steering pump fan and it spins free. no blow of the f5 fuse (as other people reported). it happend to me in the last year for 3 times, but only for a short time. the power steering pump went out, but few hours after i turned off the engine and didn't drive the car, the pump came back normally (excepting the continous whining noise of it). didn't take it to the dealer yet for a pump replacement. i know the power steering pump failure is a common problem on minis 2002-2006 and i want to claim this problem on my car too. hope this problem to become a recall soon for mini/bmw. best regards, mihai vasilescu
05/06/201150975
 2003 mini cooper s power steering pump failure. sudden loss of steering assist and nearly wrecked the car if my wife was driving i doubt she could have saved it. google search turns up hundreds of like posts. on another quick search, as of 2006, 50 pump failures resulted in the total loss of the car because of fire. and these are people that post. maybe 10% of the mini drivers post online. this is a disgrace!
03/25/2011110442
 While driving, the power steering assist will intermittently fail completely, making it very difficult to steer the vehicle, and greatly increasing the likelihood of an accident. the fluid levels are correct, and power steering will return after shutting the vehicle off and letting it sit for a while.. i have not yet taken corrective action.
03/22/201191000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while the contact was driving approximately 30 mph, the power steering failed to operate. the vehicle was driven to the side of the road, and the engine was turned off. the vehicle began to function normally within thirty seconds before the failure recurred. the was able to continue driving. he vehicle was inspected and he observed that electric power steering pump had failed. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 91,000. the vin was unavailable.
03/25/2011110442
 While driving, the power steering assist will intermittently fail completely, making it very difficult to steer the vehicle, and greatly increasing the likelihood of an accident. the fluid levels are correct, and power steering will return after shutting the vehicle off and letting it sit for a while.. i have not yet taken corrective action.
03/22/201191000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while the contact was driving approximately 30 mph, the power steering failed to operate. the vehicle was driven to the side of the road, and the engine was turned off. the vehicle began to function normally within thirty seconds before the failure recurred. the was able to continue driving. he vehicle was inspected and he observed that electric power steering pump had failed. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 91,000. the vin was unavailable.
03/22/201191000
 The contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while the contact was driving approximately 30 mph, the power steering failed to operate. the vehicle was driven to the side of the road, and the engine turned off. the vehicle resumed normally for thirty seconds before the failure reoccurred. the contact continued in operation, upon reaching his residence, the vehicle was inspected with findings of a faulty electric power steering pump. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure mileage was 91,000. the vin was unavailable. js
03/16/2011113000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the contact stated that while driving 30 mph the steering wheel became very stiff and within a few minutes he smelled fumes inside the vehicle. he opened the hood of the vehicle and it was on fire. the fire department was notified; however, there was no mention of a fire report. the vehicle was not taken to a dealer or local mechanic for diagnostic testing. the manufacturer was contacted and did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included in any of the recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 113,000.
03/12/2011113000
 I was leaving my home when i notice, as soon as i start my car, that my steering is very stiff. i have to use my whole body to turn the wheel and maneuver the car. it has been going on for almost a week now off and on. go online and research problem to find its going to cost me near $1000 to fix.
03/16/2011113000
 Tl -the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the contact stated that while driving 30mph the steering became very stiff, minutes later he smelled fumes coming into the vehicle. he mentioned he open the hood of the vehicle and noticed the flames. the fire department was called to the scene. the vehicle was not taken to a dealer nor a local shop. the manufacturer was contacted who did not offered any assistance since the vehicle was not included on any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 113,000. pm
03/12/2011113000
 I was leaving my home when i notice, as soon as i start my car, that my steering is very stiff. i have to use my whole body to turn the wheel and maneuver the car. it has been going on for almost a week now off and on. go online and research problem to find its going to cost me near $1000 to fix.
02/24/201190450
 Experienced a complete loss of power steering while driving at high-speed and preparing to exit the highway. as such, i nearly drove off the road attempting to turn the vehicle on the exist ramp -- very hard emergency braking was necessary because it was virtually impossible to turn, and thus, control the car. i later discovered by mini of san diego (who conducted repairs) that the power steering pump had failed and had to be replaced costing approximately $1,100. they also informed me that chronic problems with mini power steering pumps were being investigated and that a recall might be issued to correct the problem. i researched further and believe that the 1st year being reviewed is the 2004. i believe that the 2003 should also be included as well in the event of a recall since i experienced the very same problem being investigated, and the danger resulting from the defect is considerable.
03/12/201189000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 20 mph, the power steering failed without prior warning. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. the contact was awaiting a response from the technician to determine the cause of failure. the contact discovered that the power steering pump defect was a common problem while doing further research on the failure. the failure mileage was approximately 89,000. the vin was unavailable.
03/16/2011113000
 Tl -the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the contact stated that while driving 30mph the steering became very stiff, minutes later he smelled fumes coming into the vehicle. he mentioned he open the hood of the vehicle and noticed the flames. the fire department was called to the scene. the vehicle was not taken to a dealer nor a local shop. the manufacturer was contacted who did not offered any assistance since the vehicle was not included on any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 113,000. pm
03/12/2011113000
 I was leaving my home when i notice, as soon as i start my car, that my steering is very stiff. i have to use my whole body to turn the wheel and maneuver the car. it has been going on for almost a week now off and on. go online and research problem to find its going to cost me near $1000 to fix.
02/24/201190450
 Experienced a complete loss of power steering while driving at high-speed and preparing to exit the highway. as such, i nearly drove off the road attempting to turn the vehicle on the exist ramp -- very hard emergency braking was necessary because it was virtually impossible to turn, and thus, control the car. i later discovered by mini of san diego (who conducted repairs) that the power steering pump had failed and had to be replaced costing approximately $1,100. they also informed me that chronic problems with mini power steering pumps were being investigated and that a recall might be issued to correct the problem. i researched further and believe that the 1st year being reviewed is the 2004. i believe that the 2003 should also be included as well in the event of a recall since i experienced the very same problem being investigated, and the danger resulting from the defect is considerable.
03/12/201189000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 20 mph, the power steering failed without prior warning. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. the contact was awaiting a response from the technician to determine the cause of failure. the contact discovered that the power steering pump defect was a common problem while doing further research on the failure. the failure mileage was approximately 89,000. the vin was unavailable.
03/12/2011113000
 I was leaving my home when i notice, as soon as i start my car, that my steering is very stiff. i have to use my whole body to turn the wheel and maneuver the car. it has been going on for almost a week now off and on. go online and research problem to find its going to cost me near $1000 to fix.
02/24/201190450
 Experienced a complete loss of power steering while driving at high-speed and preparing to exit the highway. as such, i nearly drove off the road attempting to turn the vehicle on the exist ramp -- very hard emergency braking was necessary because it was virtually impossible to turn, and thus, control the car. i later discovered by mini of san diego (who conducted repairs) that the power steering pump had failed and had to be replaced costing approximately $1,100. they also informed me that chronic problems with mini power steering pumps were being investigated and that a recall might be issued to correct the problem. i researched further and believe that the 1st year being reviewed is the 2004. i believe that the 2003 should also be included as well in the event of a recall since i experienced the very same problem being investigated, and the danger resulting from the defect is considerable.
03/12/201189000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 20 mph, the power steering failed without prior warning. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. the contact was waiting upon a response from the technician to the cause of failure. through research the contact discovered that the power steering pump defect was a common problem. the failure mileage was approximately 89,000. the vin was unavailable. js
02/24/201190450
 Experienced a complete loss of power steering while driving at high-speed and preparing to exit the highway. as such, i nearly drove off the road attempting to turn the vehicle on the exist ramp -- very hard emergency braking was necessary because it was virtually impossible to turn, and thus, control the car. i later discovered by mini of san diego (who conducted repairs) that the power steering pump had failed and had to be replaced costing approximately $1,100. they also informed me that chronic problems with mini power steering pumps were being investigated and that a recall might be issued to correct the problem. i researched further and believe that the 1st year being reviewed is the 2004. i believe that the 2003 should also be included as well in the event of a recall since i experienced the very same problem being investigated, and the danger resulting from the defect is considerable.
03/12/201189000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 20 mph, the power steering failed without prior warning. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. the contact was waiting upon a response from the technician to the cause of failure. through research the contact discovered that the power steering pump defect was a common problem. the failure mileage was approximately 89,000. the vin was unavailable. js
02/24/201190450
 Experienced a complete loss of power steering while driving at high-speed and preparing to exit the highway. as such, i nearly drove off the road attempting to turn the vehicle on the exist ramp -- very hard emergency braking was necessary because it was virtually impossible to turn, and thus, control the car. i later discovered by mini of san diego (who conducted repairs) that the power steering pump had failed and had to be replaced costing approximately $1,100. they also informed me that chronic problems with mini power steering pumps were being investigated and that a recall might be issued to correct the problem. i researched further and believe that the 1st year being reviewed is the 2004. i believe that the 2003 should also be included as well in the event of a recall since i experienced the very same problem being investigated, and the danger resulting from the defect is considerable.
03/12/201189000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while driving approximately 20 mph, the power steering failed without prior warning. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. the contact was waiting upon a response from the technician to the cause of failure. through research the contact discovered that the power steering pump defect was a common problem. the failure mileage was approximately 89,000. the vin was unavailable. js
03/02/201180023
 2003 mini cooper s just had a power steering system failure resulting in at least $600.00 in repair cost. car only has 80,000 miles on it and when the system failed, steering went to manual effort, no assist, no warning. fortunately i was driving and not my wife as she would have had difficulty completing the turn. i know the steering still operates, but if you aren't ready for the drastically increased effort required to complete a turn, you will loose control of the vehicle. half-way through a turn in traffic conditions is no time to find out you don't have the strength to finish it. there was absolutely no warning of impending failure. to have a major safety and control system of your vehicle fail this quickly (only 80,000 miles) leaves me wondering as to the safety of the other vital systems on the vehicle. mini made changes on the power steering system on later vehicles to address this without having any recall or voluntary repair program for retrofit to the older vehicles. this is not fair and definitely not safe.
02/24/200980000
 2003 mini cooper s with power steering failure. power steering goes in and out. car radio rurns on when car is off and no key is in the engine, causing battery to drain. once my power steering went out when i was leaving a parking area causing me to hit the car in front of me. i have not repaired damages. i have however relaced the engine due to faulty wiring in aprox 2009. a fuse that runs everything for cooling blew and gave me no warning the engine was overheating.
12/12/201078000
 Power steering pump failed, causing hard to control conditions in vehicle.
02/01/201050000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the vehicle was parked and shut off for approximately 30 minutes when he was told the vehicle was on fire. when he arrived at the vehicle he noticed the fire was coming from under the hood. the fire extinguished on it's own and the vehicle was towed to an independent repair shop. the contact was told the power steering remained on while the vehicle was shut off and caused the fire. the power steering pump, wiring harness and battery were all replaced. the failure has not recurred. the failure mileage was 50,000 and the current mileage was 92,000. sm.
12/12/201078000
 Power steering pump failed, causing hard to control conditions in vehicle.
02/01/201050000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the vehicle was parked and shut off for approximately 30 minutes when he was told the vehicle was on fire. when he arrived at the vehicle he noticed the fire was coming from under the hood. the fire extinguished on it's own and the vehicle was towed to an independent repair shop. the contact was told the power steering remained on while the vehicle was shut off and caused the fire. the power steering pump, wiring harness and battery were all replaced. the failure has not recurred. the failure mileage was 50,000 and the current mileage was 92,000. sm.
12/12/201078000
 Power steering pump failed, causing hard to control conditions in vehicle.
02/01/201050000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the vehicle was parked and shut off for approximately 30 minutes when he was told the vehicle was on fire. when he arrived at the vehicle he noticed the fire was coming from under the hood. the fire extinguished on it's own and the vehicle was towed to an independent repair shop. the contact was told the power steering remained on while the vehicle was shut off and caused the fire. the power steering pump, wiring harness and battery were all replaced. the failure has not recurred. the failure mileage was 50,000 and the current mileage was 92,000. sm.
12/01/201079000
 I purchased a 2003 mini cooper s used in november 2007. it had 30,000 miles. shortly after purchase the power steering pump went out. the dealership replaced it promptly, dec. 2007. i am now experiencing intermittent power steering failure again, at 79,000 miles, 49,000 miles on a new pump. it comes and goes while driving. very dangerous while taking curves.
12/12/201078000
 Power steering pump failed, causing hard to control conditions in vehicle.
02/01/201050000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the vehicle was parked and shut off for approximately 30 minutes when he was told the vehicle was on fire. when he arrived at the vehicle he noticed the fire was coming from under the hood. the fire extinguished on it's own and the vehicle was towed to an independent repair shop. the contact was told the power steering remained on while the vehicle was shut off and caused the fire. the power steering pump, wiring harness and battery were all replaced. the failure has not recurred. the failure mileage was 50,000 and the current mileage was 92,000. sm.
12/01/201079000
 I purchased a 2003 mini cooper s used in november 2007. it had 30,000 miles. shortly after purchase the power steering pump went out. the dealership replaced it promptly, dec. 2007. i am now experiencing intermittent power steering failure again, at 79,000 miles, 49,000 miles on a new pump. it comes and goes while driving. very dangerous while taking curves.
11/10/201083000
 Power steering pump, noise, binding, and eventual failure.
09/15/200965000
 Failed powering steering assist pump
11/10/201083000
 Power steering pump, noise, binding, and eventual failure.
09/15/200965000
 Failed powering steering assist pump
11/10/201083000
 Power steering pump, noise, binding, and eventual failure.
09/15/200965000
 Failed powering steering assist pump
11/10/201083000
 Power steering pump, noise, binding, and eventual failure.
09/15/200965000
 Failed powering steering assist pump
08/30/201040500
 2003 mini cooper s - power steering has repeatedly failed at high and low speed driving. wife ran onto sidewalk once when control was lost. smells like something is burning when driving. steering fails. when car cools control comes back, but fails again after less than a mile. called 3 dealerships who all knew & had repaired cars with the same issues. estimated $1500-2000 out of my pocket to fix with no help from manufacturer. i complained that the car had barely 40,000 miles on it and failure should not be occurring on german engineered car. one service tech said the problems are in the pumps and those aren't designed or manufactured by bmw, so it is not bmws' fault. but they are the ones who sold these cars with theses issues for 4 years. flushed power steering fluid myself which was burnt and black. replaced with new recommended fluid. lasted about 30 miles before burning smell returned and steering problems continued as before. saw online article where bmw cautioned that 2002-2005 minis may have steering issues but no recall would be issued. the article estimated 225,000 cars at risk and a recall might destroy the mini line. so be it. 2002 and 2003 models should be included in investigation of 2004 and 2005 model years. considering selling the car to recoup investment, but after hearing of numerous steering failures and even fires that total the cars and even burn down homes and garages where they are parked makes me feel like i would be putting someone else unwittingly in danger. the car has currently sat in storage with the battery removed from the car while i debate whether or not to replace the power steering pump in hopes of fixing the problem or get rid of the car. i would have to tell they buyer the issues, which means less money, and i still owe $6500. i would lose all equity i have in a car i paid $20,000 for just a couple of years ago. bmw should fix this problem or i and others have unsafe cars worth a fraction of cost.
10/07/201057304
 Driving home yesterday, my 2003 mini cooper s suddenly lost power steering as i was going around a curve. i had to muscle the car back into my lane to avoid hitting the car in the lane beside me. i was about half a mile from home and made it there without further incident -- but turning at slow speeds was dangerously difficult. i contacted the mini repair shop this morning and they said that this intermittent unexpected loss of steering control is unfortunately somewhat common with minis.
05/26/2010141000
 On 5/26/10 lost power steering while driving on the long island expressway. 141,000 miles on car. power steering electronic pump replacement cost $ 1005.00
07/16/20105600
 Power steering lock on it
05/26/2010141000
 On 5/26/10 lost power steering while driving on the long island expressway. 141,000 miles on car. power steering electronic pump replacement cost $ 1005.00
07/16/20105600
 Power steering lock on it
05/26/2010141000
 On 5/26/10 lost power steering while driving on the long island expressway. 141,000 miles on car. power steering electronic pump replacement cost $ 1005.00
07/16/20105600
 Power steering lock on it
06/15/200967000
 2003 mini cooper s with 67,000k miles, power steering pump failed and caused a short circuit resulting in a complete meltdown. the pump, hydraulic lines, cooling fan and wiring harness were all burned or melted. there was no symptom or indication of a failure. car drove and acted normal prior to parking it for the day. when i got back in the car, 8 hours later, no power steering. if it had been in my garage when the short/meltdown occurred, it may have caused fire. miniusa basically said i was on my own due to expiration of my warranty. (60,000)
09/17/201053241
 Complete failure of power steering pump while driving resulting in almost complete loss of steering. power steering pump was replaced only to have the remanufactured unit fail 12 months later. upon investigation it became apparent that this is a known problem for 2002-2006 mini coopers. have been informed that this pump design is poor and prone to failure.
07/16/20105600
 Power steering lock on it
06/15/200967000
 2003 mini cooper s with 67,000k miles, power steering pump failed and caused a short circuit resulting in a complete meltdown. the pump, hydraulic lines, cooling fan and wiring harness were all burned or melted. there was no symptom or indication of a failure. car drove and acted normal prior to parking it for the day. when i got back in the car, 8 hours later, no power steering. if it had been in my garage when the short/meltdown occurred, it may have caused fire. miniusa basically said i was on my own due to expiration of my warranty. (60,000)
09/17/201053241
 Complete failure of power steering pump while driving resulting in almost complete loss of steering. power steering pump was replaced only to have the remanufactured unit fail 12 months later. upon investigation it became apparent that this is a known problem for 2002-2006 mini coopers. have been informed that this pump design is poor and prone to failure.
06/19/200885000
 My 2003 mini cooper s had a total failure of the power steering pump. the failure occured while driving the car at aprox 60 mph on an expressway near buffalo, ny. the pump was replaced by me at a cost of aprox $800.00
09/23/2010112300
 Driving vehicle normally, power assist for the steering fails causing greatly increased effort to steer. this is addressed in pe10038 but the model years affected should include 2002 and 2003 as the electric power assist systems were the same. i have not yet attempted to replace any parts, only have confirmed fluid is full and both cooling fans operate. cycling the ignition key briefly to the off position will cause power assist to resume.
06/15/200967000
 2003 mini cooper s with 67,000k miles, power steering pump failed and caused a short circuit resulting in a complete meltdown. the pump, hydraulic lines, cooling fan and wiring harness were all burned or melted. there was no symptom or indication of a failure. car drove and acted normal prior to parking it for the day. when i got back in the car, 8 hours later, no power steering. if it had been in my garage when the short/meltdown occurred, it may have caused fire. miniusa basically said i was on my own due to expiration of my warranty. (60,000)
09/17/201053241
 Complete failure of power steering pump while driving resulting in almost complete loss of steering. power steering pump was replaced only to have the remanufactured unit fail 12 months later. upon investigation it became apparent that this is a known problem for 2002-2006 mini coopers. have been informed that this pump design is poor and prone to failure.
06/19/200885000
 My 2003 mini cooper s had a total failure of the power steering pump. the failure occured while driving the car at aprox 60 mph on an expressway near buffalo, ny. the pump was replaced by me at a cost of aprox $800.00
09/23/2010112300
 Driving vehicle normally, power assist for the steering fails causing greatly increased effort to steer. this is addressed in pe10038 but the model years affected should include 2002 and 2003 as the electric power assist systems were the same. i have not yet attempted to replace any parts, only have confirmed fluid is full and both cooling fans operate. cycling the ignition key briefly to the off position will cause power assist to resume.
06/15/200967000
 2003 mini cooper s with 67,000k miles, power steering pump failed and caused a short circuit resulting in a complete meltdown. the pump, hydraulic lines, cooling fan and wiring harness were all burned or melted. there was no symptom or indication of a failure. car drove and acted normal prior to parking it for the day. when i got back in the car, 8 hours later, no power steering. if it had been in my garage when the short/meltdown occurred, it may have caused fire. miniusa basically said i was on my own due to expiration of my warranty. (60,000)
09/17/201053241
 Complete failure of power steering pump while driving resulting in almost complete loss of steering. power steering pump was replaced only to have the remanufactured unit fail 12 months later. upon investigation it became apparent that this is a known problem for 2002-2006 mini coopers. have been informed that this pump design is poor and prone to failure.
06/19/200885000
 My 2003 mini cooper s had a total failure of the power steering pump. the failure occured while driving the car at aprox 60 mph on an expressway near buffalo, ny. the pump was replaced by me at a cost of aprox $800.00
09/23/2010112300
 Driving vehicle normally, power assist for the steering fails causing greatly increased effort to steer. this is addressed in pe10038 but the model years affected should include 2002 and 2003 as the electric power assist systems were the same. i have not yet attempted to replace any parts, only have confirmed fluid is full and both cooling fans operate. cycling the ignition key briefly to the off position will cause power assist to resume.
06/19/200885000
 My 2003 mini cooper s had a total failure of the power steering pump. the failure occured while driving the car at aprox 60 mph on an expressway near buffalo, ny. the pump was replaced by me at a cost of aprox $800.00
09/23/2010112300
 Driving vehicle normally, power assist for the steering fails causing greatly increased effort to steer. this is addressed in pe10038 but the model years affected should include 2002 and 2003 as the electric power assist systems were the same. i have not yet attempted to replace any parts, only have confirmed fluid is full and both cooling fans operate. cycling the ignition key briefly to the off position will cause power assist to resume.
07/15/201070000
 Complete loss of power steering when warm car is started. not a problem when car is cold. requires approximately 1.5 hours for car to cool before car can be started and safely driven with power steering restored. will be replacing with oem power steering pump. new pump is approx $600 and labor is approx $150 at independent mechanic. dealer estimate is approx $1300. other family members will not drive car due to fear that power steering will be lost while driving though this has not actually happened.
05/01/2010116000
 My friend and i got into my 03 mini cooper s this past weekend. we were driving along il rte 1 until i got up to a 2 way stop. i was making a left turn but i realized i lost all power to my power steering unit. i barely was able to make the turn in order to avoid getting broadsided by a dodge ram barrelling at me at 60 mphs.
04/12/2010
 Power steering pump on my 2003 mini cooper s failed, very hard to steer once failed, now i'm having the same failure again after replacing it last year. read on threads and owners everywhere are having the same problems.
04/05/201080000
 Tl* the contacts owns a 2003 mini cooper s. the contact stated the power steering failed intermittently. he confirmed that when shutting off the engine for a few moments the power steering would reset itself once it restarted. neither the dealer nor manufacturer was contacted to report the failure. the vin was not available. the failure and current mileages were 80,000.
03/26/2010103000
 Sudden failure of power steering assist in traffic i was barely able to control car.
01/09/2010900001
 2003 mini cooper s, 90000 miles. power steering wheel failure during normal driving. the steering wheel is extremely hard to turn manually, thus causing panic and real danger, because the car swerved out of a turn. dealer says it is a common issue, and need to replace the fan or pump, repair price $1300. mini needs to recall the car. *tr
12/06/20091
 My 2003 mini cooper s spontaneously caught fire while parallel parking in los angeles, ca. the power steering pump failed, a fire shortly followed. the los angeles fire dept. was phoned. car needed to be towed. *tr
02/07/2009650001
 Failure of 2003 mini cooper manual transmission. my car has been under regular maintenance. i first noticed the car losing power going uphill, then it became difficult to put the car in gear. next morning i was unable to get into reverse, was extremely difficult to shift and some gears could not be engaged. at a stop light i began hearing a very loud grinding noise, like metal in a blender, the car would not engage in gear, i had to be pushed out of the intersection. the dealer offered nothing. my private mechanic found metal shreds throughout the transmission. said a bearing had come loose and destroyed the interior of the transmission, all at 65k miles. he also said the engine could have failed while on the freeway at high speeds and this could have been life endangering. also the power steering pump went at 30k miles. both very costly repairs and the transmission locking up a very serious life threat. the replacement costs for the transmission were $3k and that was from a private mechanic. online research shows a plethora of consumer complaints and information that mini cooper knows about this. neither the local dealer nor corporate office would offer any help in replacement costs. *tr
11/13/2009321
 Driving home as usual, when i turned to back-in to the driveway and the power steering went out. very difficult to maneuver car into the driveway. left car overnight and tried again next day. fine the next day, but happened again the following day. 2003 mcs 31,700 miles. looking into cause of failure. *tr
11/03/2009335001
 Power steering goes out without warning leaving car difficult to control. *tr
05/31/2009870001
 Took 2003 mini cooper s to performance driving school and had power steering pump catch on fire. *tr
03/26/2009460001
 Ironically, i first looked at this complaint site two days ago as i first learned about its existence from the april 2009 issue of consumer reports. i felt good that the two most frequently named complaints for my model and year had not occurred. so, today that good feeling ended, as one of the common occurrences happened to me - a coincidence? or the mini gods revenge? to continue: i noticed that after i shut off the car, something was still running for a long time afterwards. opening the hood, i realized that it was probably the power steering pump that was not turning off, and knew from reading this site, that it would lead to battery failure at a minimum, and a fire at worst case. so, i immediately drove to the dealer - herb chambers mini of boston - and left it for repair. the call i received this afternoon that it was in fact the power steering pump which would not turn off and that it would cost $1100 to replace was devastating. the mini has about 46,000 miles on it and this is the first real repair necessary following the warranty period. given that there already are 8 others with the same issue just on this complaint forum, i would expect that mini would do more about what is obviously a defective part. *tr
03/15/2009515861
 Power steering failed on a 2003 mini cooper s with 51,586 miles. *tr
12/05/2008520001
 I purchased my '03 mini copper s with 49k from a honda in mechanicsburg, pa dealer in august. in december, i purchased tires and then went to a self-service carwash afterward. when i got home and before i put it in the garage, i took out the hose and washed off the wheels and under the car. during the process there was white smoke, which i thought was steam from the water hitting the manifold. i put the car in the garage and later when my wife came home she commented on the smoke and mist in the garage (it was quite cold that night.) the next day when i pulled the car out, the steering was very stiff and i only drove it out the driveway and on the road before i realized the power steering was completely out. i drove it about 15 miles to the dealer after checking fuses and determining that the problem was beyond my mechanical skills. the power steering pump, fan and harness were replaced along with the battery (shorted out). insurance adjusters from hondacare (extended warranty), state farm insurance company (my comprehensive insurance) and the dealership determined that the power steering pump had caught fire. their conjecture was that i had put out the fire with the hose when i sprayed under the car. honda care paid $1999 from extended warranty for the power steering pump, battery, power steering harness and fan. a total of $2700 additional from state farm comprehensive insurance (hondacare extended warranty would not cover harness, towing and diagnostic work from the mini dealer in maryland, etc because they were the result of damage caused by the power steering pump fire); state farm insurance was exceptional and covered the difference with comprehensive covered. the parts are not available at this time but i was told that there are reports including pictures from adjusters at hondacare and from state farm insurance. *tr
02/02/2009422601
 My 2003 mini cooper s has 41,000 miles. on 2/2/09, the power steering failed and i had a tough time keeping the car in control. i went home, re-started the car and the power steering was functional. i took it in for repair on 2/5/09, the power steering pump and lines were replaced. *tr
09/10/2008467691
 The only events leading to this problem were normal, everyday driving and routine, factory recommended service. the failure appears to have initiated at the cooling fan for the electric power steering pump. when the fan seizes, the pump overheats causing an electrical short in the pump electronics. this condition causes the pump to run nonstop even with the ignition turned off and the key out. this in turn runs the battery down and can possibly lead to a fire. the dealer replaced the power steering pump, the power steering pump cooling fan as well as the battery since it's usable life was diminished from the excessive draw. old part is not available and none of this was offered as a warranty item. *tr
07/18/2008133460
 I've been following blogs about mini coopers going on fire since i owned one, and i never thought it would happen to me. well, i had just gotten back home from school when i smell something like wiring burning in my car, so i killed the engine and opened the hood. power steering still running and smoking, so i called my dad to help me. he disconnected the battery and stopped the eps pump from being consumed on fire. this should not be happening, the bmw-mini firm should take responsibility and not let their clients suffer the aftermath. this is surely a recall, no one has died yet, thanks god, but let
07/24/200830000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s. while the contact's wife was driving 60 mph, the wheel and tire detached from the vehicle. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and has not been diagnosed at this time. the contact was informed that the cost for the repair would range from $3,000 - $5,000. the affected components were the steering, brakes, suspension, and shocks. a police report was filed and the contact has pictures available. the vin was unknown. the current and failure mileages were 30,000.
07/20/2008322401
 Complete and instant power steering failure with no warning of any kind. required considerable arm strength to control vehicle. *tr
06/27/2008500001
 The power steering suddenly went out on friday, june 27, 2008 causing difficulty in steering and nearly causing an accident. as i turned into my home driveway. upon towing the vehicle to crevier auto in santa ana, california on friday afternoon/evening, crevier was unable to locate the vehicle. on monday, june 30, after much consternation, crevier finally located the vehicle as they had it on their premises since the previous friday. tuesday, july 1, a service technician notified me that the power steering pump had gone out on the 2003 mini cooper s. the vehicle has less than 50,000 miles on it and has been driven gently throughout its lifetime. *tr
STEERING - ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
05/10/200758750107/18/2003
 Power steering failure and soon after electrical smelling smoke started to come out from under the hood. upon inspection at the dealership some of the wires had melted and the power sterring motor was burnt out.
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - PUMP
10/31/200988000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 mini cooper s purchased new. he stated while traveling at speeds of less than 65 mph, the vehicle began pulling to the right. shortly after that the battery charging warning light illuminated and the contact immediatley smelled a burning odor. he pulled over and found there was a fire coming from under the hood. the fire department arrived shortly after however he had already extinguished the fire. the insurance company and mechanic determined the fire was a result of a faulty power steering pump cooling fan. the vehicle was repaired under his insurance company. the failure and current mileages were under 88,000.the vin was not available.
11/16/200756000108/11/2003
 The power steering pump failed suddenly and unexpectedly (no warning) while driving, making the steering wheel significantly more difficult to turn and driving the vehicle significantly more dangerous. *tr
09/13/200665000111/19/2002
 Parking the vehicle after a 35 mi commute to work with the ignition was turned off the electro hydraulic steering pump continued to run. the only way to turn the pump off and avoid overheating was to disconnect the battery. the failure was corrected by replacement of the electo hydrolic steering pump. old part is not available. *ak
01/04/200742000103/01/2006
 Parked vehicle outside grocery store. returned after <5 minutes to find smoke pouring from the hood. opened hood to determine cause and smelt electrical smoke, and saw flames coming from under the engine. doused flames using a fire extinguisher from store, and disconnected battery. initial dealer investigation indicates that the damage was to the power steering pump and wiring harness. had i not stopped for groceries, i would have been unlikely to notice the smoke/fire early enough to prevent the loss of the vehicle. insurance and dealer root cause investigation is still pending, but after some research on the internet (mostly http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/showthread.php?t=73527) i found at least 10 other instances of a fault in the power steering pump causing fires. bmw is obviously aware of some of these problems, as they made changes to the power steering pump and power steering fan wiring harness in 04 models on. it seems to me that there is a systematic problem with the power steering pump on minis. no fuse blew, and to have an electrical component run to the point where is combusts, without any fuse or thermal fuse protection seems a gross design deficiency to me. *nm
08/15/200422624102/12/2003
 Was driving down a 2-lane curvy road at night, dry weather, 75 f at 30 mph when car began to whine whenever steering wheel was turned. as i decelerated to 10-15 mph to make a 90 degree right turn around a curve, the steering wheel became suddenly extremely difficult to turn. almost t-boned a car traveling in the opposite direction around same curve. was able to get the car back in my lane, and get it home, but not without a lot of effort. called bmw service, they acknowledged they've serviced a few minis with the same problem, and was most likely a power steering pump failure. car will be towed today. *jb
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
01/13/2013832431
 Parked vehicle in home garage and the power steering pump continued to run even when key is removed. i was familiar with this issue as many other owners have experienced it and reported. refer to nhtsa action number : ea11005. the pump will continue to run until battery depletes or fire occurs. there is no cooling provided by dedicated cooling fan when vehicle is off. i disconnected the battery to stop pump from overheating. *tr
07/24/200777035305/12/2004
 Sudden and intermittent power steering failure maintaining control of vehicle became difficult scheduled for repair. *tr
07/23/200769813105/01/2004
 We have a 2003 mini cooper s that spontaneously caught on fire today. i was driving about 40 mph when i smelled something and the power steering just quit working. i came to a stop, then smoke came out from the side of the car. i pulled into a parking lot and opened the hood - there was a fire under the exhaust by the power steering pump. i was able to get a bucket of water and put the fire out. i got on the internet and there are at least two sites (see: http://www.consumeraffairs.com/automotive/mini.html http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/showthread.php?s=015b1e186260b0639d13cf8a7d6522dd&t=73527&page=8 where many people have had similar issues. what does it take for a recall? i have not seen any deaths, but several reports of fires. if i had been driving 70 on the interstate when the power steering quit and the car caught on fire, it could have been a disaster. please do something about this. i see where an investigation was opened in april (pe07022), but please move on this. i am very afraid the next person will not be so lucky. *jb

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