06 r53, with 104k miles. All stock. Newish tensioner and crank pulley (Ati)

Started it today, battery light on, no power steering. Battery voltage is 11.8 at idle and no power steering. Assume it’s the alternator, due to low voltage output, but why no ps? What voltage does the ps pump turn on at? How to know it’s not the ps pump and alternator?

Thoughts?

 

I think you answered your own question, "Voltage is 11.8". You're not putting out enough juice,(amps/voltage) to power your electric power steering pump. Hopefully you are handy with a wrench, if not seek out a Indie shop, dealership will take you for a ride.

 

The fuse for the PS pump is 100 amps and I am thinking that as technical as the MINI is, if the voltage is not above a certain amount, the pump will not activate.

 

I would say that is true, ever try turning your wheel with just the ignition on...

You counting down to the Dragon?

just got my Borla exhaust yesterday

 

I confirmed from the 2006 wiring diagram that the alternator must be outputting to allow the power steering pump to run. Without a signal from the alternator, you won’t have ps.

I ordered a new alternator from Detroit tuned. Thanks guys!