My wifes 04 Cooper was showing all the classic symptoms of a failing so i went ahead and installed a new o.e.m unit. We decided to take her car for a quick spin this morning and made it about a mile before the steering died. Any body have any thoughts about what other hideously expensive part i need next?

 

I would check the 100 amp fuse on the backside of the fuse box in the engine compartment. Also check and make sure your alternator is working, and you have a fully charged battery.

Nik