I bought my Mini back in May and noticed that there was a HUGE difference in turning the wheels from my past vehicle. Now I know the solid axle is easier to work steering into than independent front suspension (is that the technical term for what our Mini's used, I only have a background in Wranglers), so I just wrote it off as that.

Yesterday, however, I backed my parents' Blazer out of the driveway and literally thought the steering shaft had finally broken and become disconnected from the pump. It wasn't, that's just how easy it is to turn compared to my Mini. Does it sound like something is wrong with my steering or is that really just how it is? I have no problem with it, but the difference between the two is really shocking.

 

Normal...I noticed this too when I drove a mini for the first time. feels like there is almost no power steering, im used to it now though

 

Mine turns pretty easily, even compared to my father's 4runner and definitely compared to my old Maxima. But I also have stock 15" holies. Do you have pretty wide wheels?

 

Totally normal! I love it though, makes me feel like I have more control of the car.

 

I do have wider wheels, I don't remember the size, but they are larger than the factory Run-Flats. Thanks for the confirmation. I do like it the way it is, but the difference has had me wondering for a while now. It really only comes into play when I'm trying to back into a parking spot. I don't turn the wheels while I'm stopped, but it's still pretty tough. Oh well, nothing wrong with a workout.

Thanks guys.

 

My Mini turns very easily. In fact, I wish it were a bit stiffer. I think you should get yours checked out.

 

The complaint often heard about American cars in the past that they gave little or no "road feedback" meaning there was no sense of steering at all. Now, they use speed sensitive steering which makes the wheel light at low speeds, but heavier at highway speeds.

If you want to see what no power steering really feels like, turn the engine off and turn the wheels. That is no power steering.