I think my steering is going out. My car has 17,000 miles on it. I have coilovers and 215/45r17 tires. I don't think that would have anything to do with it...would it?

 

Why do you think the steering is going out?

We need more details to assist in finding the problem or source of your situation. I.E. what are the symptoms of the problem.

 

Lets see, when i turn it creeks and pops. When i lift the front end off the ground and grab my tire and move it back and forth you can feel it grinding.

 

Don't these newfangled Minis have warranties?

 

and get thee to a dealer!

Matt

 

Has the car been involved in any accident before?

 

"When i lift the front end off the ground and grab my tire and move it back and forth..."

You are strong, Dude!

 

Sounds like your coilover springs might be binding up. When you turn your wheel the spring has to turn too and if the bearing is bad or the coilover set didn't have the little plastic washers you use between the springs then they can make all kinds of noises.