Signs My MINI’s Power Steering Pump Is Going Bad
Peak Euro can replace your MINI Cooper or other European automobile’s power steering pump when it goes bad. This generally happens after you’ve put 100,000 miles on the vehicle. We are going to list the signs of a bad power steering pump below so you know what to look for in your MINI Cooper. Bring your European automobile to our shop as soon as possible if you suspect there is a problem with the power steering pump.
Groaning Noises
One of the first things you might notice is that your steering wheel groans every time you turn it. This is a sign that the power steering pump is going bad. Other sounds include squealing and moaning. These noises will get louder the tighter you turn the MINI Cooper’s steering wheel. The sooner you have the power steering pump replaced the better as you will see by the other signs of a bad power steering pump below.
Wheel That’s Hard to Turn
Eventually, the steering will get hard to turn because the pump is no longer able to circulate power steering fluid through the system. You may feel as if your MINI Cooper has manual steering instead of power steering. Any changes in how the steering wheel responds when you turn it should be investigated as soon as possible to avoid further steering system damage.
Unresponsiveness
There may come a time that your MINI Cooper will fail to respond to your steering. This can make driving the Cooper dangerous because you won’t be able to control it. This is an indication that there is a serious problem in the steering system that could be related to the power steering pump.
Leaking Red Fluid
Your MINI Cooper may also start leaking power steering fluid if the pump is going bad. Power steering fluid is red and will leak underneath your engine. If you check the fluid level in the power steering reservoir and it is low, it’s probable that the power steering pump has sprung a fluid leak.
Leaking Silver Fluid
Finally, your power steering fluid may turn silver if the pump is dissolving into it. You may even be able to see the metal flakes in the fluid. Unfortunately, if this has happened with your MINI Cooper, we have no choice but to replace the power steering pump because we cannot stop it from disintegrating.
Call Peak Euro in Bend, OR, today if your MINI Cooper or other European automobile is showing any of the signs listed above.