Greetings! I am checking for some input from you folks. I recently finished doing a massive overhaul of the front end of my R53 that I purchased a few months ago. It needed a new throwout bearing so I did a clutch replacement, bushings overhaul, and replaced the power steering reservoir and lines coming from the reservoir. I put the car back together and I have taken it on two quick drives to test everything out. Today, I noticed a trail of drips and what I believe to be Pentosin fluid coming from the power steering rack and/or power steering pump. I’m checking here to see what your thoughts are on whether I have some sort of leak or if it’s somewhat normal for fluid to be observed as the system is pressurized. Also, would you drop the subframe or keep it in? I’m afraid I know the answer (drop it) but would hate to do so since I just put the car back together, haha. Any insight you folks may have is greatly appreciated!

 

Clean it off with degreaser, put it up on jack stands and start it. Have someone slowly turning the wheel while you look for leaks.

Then decide once you find the leak.

 

First check with a local Mini dealer to determine whether or not your car is covered by the factory power steering recall notice (not all are). If it is, it's replaced for free. If it doesn't qualify, the power steering pump can be replaced without dropping the subframe. Check out the ModMini repair video on YouTube for excellent instruction.