I have an '05 convertible S. (I wanted to post here in the coupe section because the cabrio section gets a lot less traffic, and the issue isn't dependent on soft/hard top) I'm getting a clicking sensation in the steering wheel whenever I turn the wheel hard, or lock to lock, as when you're pulling out of a parking space. Sometimes I can detect a little sound, but primarily its a "feeling" I'm getting in the wheel. I live in CT, and the past year has been the absolute worst for pot holes in my memory. I lost count on how many monsters I slammed into. Everything seems tight though, no play anywhere that I can detect.

Does that mean steering rack issues? Is this a common problem with MINIs? I haven't seen any other issues like this here so I have no clue.
Any help would be appreciated.

 

the steering column in my 02-S was replaced under warranty about 6 months into ownership for the very thing you describe. I was told there was a bushing that was causing the click and while nothing to be concerned about they did replace it under warranty. About 3 years later the click came back and after looking at the universal joint in the steering col' and the firewall penetration I decided that there was no real concern and let it go. Never had a problem when the car was sold @ well over 90,000 miles.

I recently test drove another 02 for a potential buyer and experienced the same click.

I've never heard of one locking up so I was never concerned but did warn the potential buyer .... they hadn't felt it.

 

this must be a common issue for 02's huh? I bought an 02 MCS last month with 15K miles on it. It has this same clicking noise. I tracked it down to somewhere behind the steering wheel. Took it to the local dealership and they said it was the same thing...a bad bushing but nothing major to worry about. But for $1300+ to fix it...I decided to just ignore the sound.

 

An 02 with 15,000 miles?

WOW .... I don't think I'd drive it .... put it on blocks for 20 years maybe

 

Yes, I got lucky finding it and bought it from an elderly guy who didnt drive it much.

 

That might even beat mine. I bought my '05 S last april with 6k on it. Its already at 20K. In some ways really low miles can be as bad as high miles....but mine has been great. (except of course for that damn clicking sensation.)