Power Steering works intermittently. Battery seems to have a draw. Is it the pump, fan or both. Thanks.

 

When I had my '04 MCS I had the steering go out on me; it ended up being the pump.

It was almost luck of the draw for steering. When I turned on the car it was a 50/50 chance of whether I would have power steering or not. If I got it, I'd have it for the entire time until i turned off the car. If i didn't get it, I had to keep turning off and on the car until it actually worked.

I'm not sure if this is similar to what is happening for you. But iirc it was covered under the warrenty and fixed within a day.

 

I'd say 90% chance it's the pump. You can buy a refurb or new one and replace it yourself for ~$400-600...or pay $1000 for the dealer to do it.

Otherwise, you're looking at the possibility of wires shorting out and blowing the PS pump fuse, possible dying battery, or bad alternator.

Whether or not the PS fan works doesn't effect the pump working; however, if you turn your AC on high you can look under the car to see if the fan is working.

 

Thanks, I guess I will pull the pump and send it to BBA for rebuilding.
04 under 30k, they should really recall these IMHO, I am very disappointed with BMW/MINI.

 

Don't forget to file a report with safercar.gov. Maybe one day we will get our money back :(

 

FILE A REPORT - well known issue with R53's. Think over this: I believe the BMW 5-series has the same p/s unit, and BMW's been replacing them... but not the Mini units. Check NHTSA for more... and file a complaint. Seriously, do it. It may make a difference. Intermittend p/s is VERY dangerous to drive.