Is the steering of your Mini suddenly getting hard or do you hear some strange sounds when you are turning the wheel? These are some of the evident symptoms of a faulty power steering pump. This pump is used to generate the forces required to make it easier to steer particularly when you are driving your Mini at a slow speed.
When it starts to fail, you will begin to see the impact almost as soon as the problem starts. Driving with a faulty steering pump is not only an inconvenience but can also pose a safety risk to drivers. Let’s see some common causes of failure, how to address a faulty steering pump, and where you should take your Mini for reliable repairs.
What does a Power Steering Pump do?
The power steering pump is a hydraulic component that helps to turn the steering wheel with less strain. The pump, in Mini vehicles, pumps steering fluid under high pressure to help steer the wheels without any jerk. When a car’s power steering pump is defective then it is very difficult to maneuver the car, especially when reversing or in tight areas.
Causes Of Steering Pump Failure
- Leaking Steering Fluid: The most frequent cause of failure in a power steering pump is a fluid leak. The steering system uses fluid in its operation and if there is a leakage it can affect the pump. Over time this can get worse and the pump is rendered completely useless.
- Worn-Out Pump Bearings: There are bearings that contribute to the function of the pump and these bearings can wear out over time. When the bearing gets damaged, the pump will become stuck and this results in complete failure of the steering system.
- Faulty Drive Belt: Power steering pump is an accessory part that is usually turned by a belt system linked to the engine. This belt must be tight, firm, and strong if not, the pump will not receive the requisite power to be of service. A bad drive belt will lead to a non-functional pump and a problem in the steering system.
- Overuse or Age: Like every other part in a car, the steering pump has a finite lifespan. With time, the internal parts of the pump may start to get weak which leads to a gradual reduction of its efficiency.
How To Tackle a Bad Power Steering Pump
- Check Fluid Level: The first thing that you should take into account any time you realize that you have a problem with your steering is the power steering fluid level. If it is low then adding some more might help to fix the problem. But if for instance, the fluid is low because of leakage this will not be solved by just adding more fluid- you will have to look for where the leakage is coming from.
- Inspect for Leaks: Check the floor beneath your Mini for signs of any kind of leakage. If you detect a leak it is advisable to have it fixed as soon as you can to avoid problems with the power steering pump.
- Listen for Noises: If you notice some signs like a whining noise especially when turning your Mini then the power steering pump is not in good shape. This could be because of low fluid, a worn-out pump, or some other problem. If the fluid is low, top it up, but if it is due to worn-out components, you need to diagnose and replace the faulty part.
- Get Professional Help: If you are not sure what is wrong, or it is still not working, it is time to go to a professional. Power steering systems are complicated and the only person that can understand them and repair them is a mechanic trained to handle Mini vehicles.
Need Power Steering Repairs on Your Mini? Trust Autohaus Sales and Service
Autohaus Sales and Service has been 
active in the Royal Oak, MI area since 1970 and focuses on German imports such as Mini. Our ASE-certified technicians understand power steering problems and will quickly get your Mini back on the road safely and with minimal steering difficulty. We extend our services to drivers from nearby cities such as Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Pleasant Ridge, Huntington Woods, and Troy, MI. Whether you need a quick top-up or a new pump installation, we are here to assist. Contact us today to book your repairs and let us get your Mini back to riding as good as new.