Does anyone get a whine when you move the steering wheel. Well I do I my 2003 MC and so does my mum in her 2003 MC. Anyone have/had this problem? What did you do to stop it?

 

It's not a problem, it's an 'idiosyncracy'.
Yes, they all do it.
No, nothing is broken.
No, the dealer isn't blowing smoke up your electric steering pump.

 

Well, like Eric said, but it should be noted that the pumps and steering rack eventually will fail and need replacement (you won't lose control, so don't freak). There is a whine with normal operation, however, symptons of them going out include an increase in volume of the whine and a looseness in the steering wheel. I suggest you have it checked out just in case. Since the dealer would charge for this, I would join a local MINI club and have one of the members listen to it, preferably someone with a MINI mechanical expertise.

Yes, the fix is expensive. Atleast $900 (out of warranty).

 

Thwey all do tend to whine but keep a eye on your fluid level. If you find you are losing fluid but its not showing up on the ground check the boots at the end of the steering rack. Some cars have a problem there and the boots fill up with fluid.

 

Id make sure you have the updated ventilation fan on the pump. You will notice it by a screen covering the blades. if you dont have this type id def get one right away or put something in its place to prevent road debris from seizing the fan which will knock out the pump and engine fan if they never did the resistor recall on the car.