Hi, I know there are many posts on this problem but I have not been able to find the answer I am looking for and do not have the time to go through the many pages of posts.

2004 R53 MCS, 56k miles. Hoses replaced 3 years ago, steering working perfectly. Fan works and fluid level checked regularly.

However for the past few months I have been getting a loud 'droning' noise when stationary and steering not under load. First time I heard it I thought the car in front of me had a load exhaust like a free flow system often sounds like. At first I thought it could be the low fan speed resistor problem, but clearly not. Not noticeable when on the move

Strange thing is that when I apply a bit of pressure to the steering wheel the noise goes away almost completely. Logical assumption would be that if the pump was on its way out then the noise would be more when under pressure.

Is this the first signs of the pump giving out? Should I replace it now or wait for it to become worse. These pumps are not cheap.

Advice will be appreciated.

 

There was a power steering pump recall implemented in October of 2015.
Put your VIN in HERE to find out if you quality.

You can read about the recall HERE and HERE.

 

Thanks but my problem is that I am in South Africa and the recall is not applicable here

 

Doesn't sound like power steering if you're sitting still with the steering not under load.

I would check your lower motor mount

 

Every gen1 MINI should have this hobo fall back PS delete kit in the parts bin, either as temporary or permanent solution.

https://www.condorspeedshop.com/coll...teering-delete
Read more here:https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...able-soon.html