Are Mini's always so quirky?

We just bought a 2007 Cooper S (our first ever) and we love it, but are completley baffled by the warning lights. This afternoon, the steering lock light came on (red) but there doesn't seem to be a problem while driving. The car starts and turns normally.

My question is can we drive it to the dealer or do we need to have it towed? I read that this was an issue with 2007s and earlier, but how serious is it really?

On a side note, does a red light always mean go straight to the dealer?

Thanks for the help. I love it love it love, but I also want to strangle the poor car sometimes too.

 

How far is the dealership? I would drive but that is just me I hate dealing with tow trucks.

 

Do whatever the Owner's Manual says. Explanation of all the icons are near the back of the manual.

For the steering lock in red, the manual doesn't match your symptoms: "Electric steering wheel lock malfunctioning. The engine can no longer be started. If applicable, do not switch off the engine. Contact your MINI Dealer." In any case, it doesn't seem to be something that should involve towing (unless your car won't start).

 

As I am posting on the other threads, it would be really great if people would post the end of the story on these things. Hearing the solutions that go with the problems would make this site 1000% more helpful for everyone. Help if you can. Thanks.