I bought a 04 MCS last year with 70k miles. The car is in great condition. Now I have 79k miles. I noticed a whine in the motor the other day that sounds like a power steering pump in some old cars I've owned. Not sure what it is ? Any common problems with High mileage MINI's ? I was planning on doing some suspension upgrades.. But if there are other areas I should be concerned about please let me know. I asked a local mechanic .. but I have received much better advice from you guys on this forum than guys that are not familiar with MINI's. I appreciate any advice you have to offer.
Thanks. Shane.

 

when does this sound happen? for me, i have a terribly annoying whine from the clutch, but it only happens as im letting out the pedal. more info on when exactly this noise occurs will definatley help everyone to determine the problem.

 

If you think its the P/S pump check the fluid now... If it is low it could be a major leak or the steering rack... If the fluid leaks out and damages the pump its expensive.
Occassionally superchargers leak the gear oil out of their gear assembles and make noise until the S/C gears grind themselves to dust. (Very rare though and not meaning to scare you)
Belt tensioners, and any of the engine accessories can make noise but again pretty rare.
And yes, clutch assemblies and flywheels make a few noises.. usually near the end of their life

 

haha ya, i thought it was no big deal at first. im in the market for a new clutch/flywheel now.

 

my power steering has a real nice whine to it. I think thats normal however?

 

Yeah...what is the difference between the normal whine and the failing whine? I guess I could go poke around for sound clips...

 

If it stops then I'll know im in trouble...lol