My 02' R50 has 75k miles on it and had the PS Pump Recall done at 73k. I've owned the car since it had 73k on it and have noticed that if you turn the wheel (even slightly), the headlights dim. I'm wondering if this happens to anyone else's Mini or if I should bring it back to the dealer and have them look at it? ($165 diagnostic fee ). I usually do all of my own work myself, but have no idea how to diagnose this. Hoping its normal. Thanks!

 

It certainly isn't 'normal'!

Pure guesswork, but I'd look at the headlight switch & associated wiring first. Either the switch is defective in some manner, or there's a short or chafed wire somewhere in the harness.
They are not hugely expensive or difficult to replace.

Find a local independent MINI specialist!

 

Thanks for the reply! Do you think it might have something to do with the power steering repair? I'd love to have MINI replace it if possible under their warranty, but I will definitely bring it to a local specialist!

 

It's the result of the electrical load from the power steering being used. It's the same as seeing lights dim in your house if you turn on a bunch of high-draw appliances.

It is normal? I don't know, someone else might be able to chime in. I certainly don't go running to check my wiring when I'm running the microwave and toaster at the same time, and the lights dim.


If it isn't normal, start with checking your alternator and regulator/rectifier to make sure it is putting out the correct voltage under different operating conditions. I don't know the exact MINI spec but it should be outputting around 14 volts at all times. Run the vehicle with a multimeter on it and have someone turn on lights and heater full blast and see what the vehicle does. It should immediately adjust for the increased demand.

Once you've verified that, you can move on to checking for increased resistance or current draw in the individual systems.