Hello everyone my name is Chris. My wife and I just bought a used 05 mini R53 pepper in color. After leaving the V8 world I decided to get my dream of a R53. Gotta good deal so here I am. I've already changed the thermostat and housing, both front tire rods, originals had seized, new lower control arm bushings and engine mounts, and oil pan gasket. Tune up and new filters. Should I focus on anything else? Thanks!

 

Welcome to NAM, Chris! Should post up some pictures for us to see. Seems like you're very DIY capable. If you ever need assistance be sure to check out our DIY tech articles here.

-Luccia

 

Thanks I'm sure glad to be here. Haha I have already saved your website before buying the car! Coincidence ? Lol

 

Fabulous! That's definitely a funny coincidence. Let me know if you ever need any assistance and hope you enjoy posting here. Cheers!

-Luccia

 

Your car maybe eligible for the Power steering pump recall. They tend to go bad on the Gen 1 cars. Check the Sticky for mods. Welcome I like you think the R53 rocks, so many mods to make it faster, if you want.

 

Where can I check about the power steering pump? I didn't see it when looking up the vin. Thanks

 

Smthkd, Sorry I didn't reply sooner, I was out of town. I think yours is eligible, being a 05. Defiantly early 05's qualify . If you contact a mini dealer, they should be able to tell you if yours was replaced, as it would be on the computer.

 

If I'm not mistaken, they don't swap out the pumps preemptively. If yours is bad, and it's under their extended warranty 'campaign', then they replace it.

 

Welcome to the MINI Club