Hi all,

I'm new. I have a 2005 automatic mini with less than 28,000 miles. I have noticed a small intermittent leak. The fluid appears to be clear. Is this power steering fluid?
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Also, today my Service Engine Soon light came on and stayed. My car engine sounds fine and I have already contacted my mechanic.

Here is my question: Is it dangerous to drive my car this weekend? I have to drive approximately 30 minutes each day and I am worried that my car will stop, overheat or the engine will be damaged. I have read everything from 02 sensors to racks to power steering failures. I am now in a complete panic.

Help!

Thank you
Mechanically challenged

 

Take your car to a nearby parts store and have them pull any codes for you. This will give you a better idea about the engine light. good luck
Wil

 

Place a plastic container underneath the engine to catch the fluid to allow for better examination. Also check the power steering and engine coolant levels.

 

I contacted the dealership (the only mini dealership in WA state and 2 hours from my home) he told me to reset my gas cap and check my fluids. I was low on oil so I added some and I reset my gas cap.

Ironically, he also said it was probably an 02 sensor. He asked the year of my car (2005) and then said that the 02 sensor was covered under an extended warranty. Hmmm..... think a few of those sensors have gone bad?

I ran my 30 minute errand today and on the return trip (shock and awe) my service engine soon light went off and stayed off.

OY!!!!!!
Too much drama!

 

Have you been running your AC?
The clear fluid might have been water dripping from the AC...when it cools the air, water will form from condensation, out just like with window unit......
A loose gas cap will often cause the check engine light.....
Not many fluids in the MINI is clear.....
However most Model year 2005 MINI o2 sensors do have an extended warranty....10 years/100,000 miles....due to early failures....they extented the warranty...you should have gotten a letter...or the orgional owner did a few years ago....

 

I've learned another valuable tip here, concerning the 02 sensor. Thankyou and I'm glad your service engine light went off.

 

Thanks,

I briefly ran my AC but haven't used it lately. That may be the clear liquid. I appreciate your info and advice. It's pretty scary to have that light come on and not have a clue.

 

Dear All..

Hoping you can share some advice. Service Engine Light came on. Took to
commericial auto parts store for a free diagnostics. Code said, 'knock sensor'.
Should I take it to where purchased for another diagnostics? (they aren't a mini dealer, but sell them) Do diagnostic machines differ? Is it ok to drive car?
Also, I thot in postings, knock sensor would be guaranted. She only has 24,000 miles on her?
Sorry am a newbie..and a blond..lol!

Many Thanks,
Abbey 1

 

Make sure you run good premium, as it could possibly be bag gas. You will have to see if it is a repeatable code (assuming they cleared it for you)