2004 R53, Manual, just turned 100K on the clock

Hi guys,
Kinda new purchase and I'm in the middle of sorting some things out. One of those things is a squeaky steering column. It's not weather-related, just squeaks (like metal on rubber) somewhere in the column when I get near full lock in either direction. Absolutely an interior noise as the PS pump and fan were replaced by the dealer under warranty.

Is this a common thing? Where do I spray the silicone?

Thx.
G

 

are you sure its not the strut bearing squeking at full turn?

 

I wouldn't want to say anything for "sure". I guess I'm asking what would be squeaking in the column turning full-lock while sitting still; what is a common source of this? I don't recall the squeak sounding like it's coming from outside/under the car.

 

I'm pretty sure it's the steering rack mount bushing. My dad's car had it, and my new (to me) one has it too. You can get the powerflex bushing for $26 but you have to drop the sub frame to install it.

 

The steering column has a u-joint...when it dies out or begins to fail, it typically results in a steering wheel that sticks, or uneven pressure needed to turn...usually no noise...
Wouldn't hurt to lube it...but something thicker than silicone in a can from Walmart might be needed...

 

mine makes creaking noises.

;(

 

Mine creaks but usually stop creaking after driving around for a bit.
Not sure why either

 

Same. Mine usually creaks within the first turn of the wheel either direction.

 

Have you all tried spraying some white lithium grease on the open ball bearing under the dash. There are 2 screws holding on the lower plastic housing of the steering column. remove that lower plastic piece and you will see the steering shaft going into this bracket with the ball bearing. turn the wheel both ways side to side at full lock while spraying the bearing with the lithium grease.

Cheap and easy fix worth a shot.

 

Thanks Chris!
I'll give it a shot.
Appreciate the help

 

Yeah, "creak" or "groan" are probably better terms than "squeal".

 

I've only had my Mini for about 3 weeks now and have learned more about mini since then than I ever cared to. it had all kinds of weird stuff i noticed after i took it home. the noise my steering was making sounded like 2 balloons rubbing together. I didnt notice it while driving it but sitting still and turning the wheel it was noticeable. Using the method I stated above fixed it. Im sure its just a temp fix and will need reapplied at a later date, but I have read others doing it and the trick lasted a couple of years. These cars definitely have their own personality.

 

Yes, Chris, and thanks. That's exactly the kind of suggestion I was looking for. I'll give it a try.

 

Any luck. I hope to buy a mini tomorrow and it had this same thing.

 

Check the column at the U joint or the bushing / pivot bearing. Also some have heard it in the steering then turned out to be the Strut mount bearings.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ing-issue.html

 

Not yet. But based on the above suggestions I listened more carefully. I now believe the sound is coming from under the car, centered beneath the shifter area. Not that the shifter is making any noise, just that it's most likely something in that area that needs lubrication.