Repair Options for Mini Cooper Electric Power Steering Issues

You won’t find many vehicles that are as easy to maneuver in tight spaces as the Mini Cooper. Compact size and responsive steering are what allow this European vehicle to easily navigate sharp corners and narrow city streets. However, its electric power steering system is not without vulnerabilities and can run into trouble every now and then.

The sole purpose of this blog post to make Mini owners aware of the repair options available to get their steering back in working order. Let’s start by discussing a few interesting facts about Mini’s Electrical Power Steering system or EPS.

Mini's Electric Power Steering System, Explained

Electric Power Steering essentially assists the driver in turning the steering wheel. It is a common feature in modern vehicles… but in Mini Cooper, the EPS system is designed to be more efficient, lighter, and require less maintenance compared to traditional hydraulic systems.

Earlier Mini Cooper models like the R50, R52, and R53 came equipped with an Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) system, where an electric pump is used to circulate hydraulic fluid to provide power assist. Later Mini Cooper models, however, replaced electric pumps with electric motors… integrated into the steering rack or the steering column, depending on the model.

Why It May Fail?

1. Faulty steering angle sensor: To provide you with a smooth steering experience, the EPS system relies on a network of sensors including a steering angle sensor. If it malfunctions, incorrect information can be sent to the EPS module, resulting in erratic or no power assist.
2. Electrical connection problems: For your Mini’s EPS to perform its intended functions… the electrical components it is made of should be able to communicate with each other seamlessly. Loose connections or frayed wires may disrupt communication between vital components of the system, resulting in steering issues.
3. Weak alternator or battery, affecting power supply: Your Mini’s EPS will cease functioning if the components powering it malfunction. Not just the EPS―the functionality of other vital driver assistance features will also be affected if there is an issue with either the battery or the alternator.
4. Overheating: There is a dedicated mechanism in place to prevent the EPS from overheating. If this system stops working, heat can quickly build up and damage the vital components of the power steering system. Extreme temperatures may cause vital bearings in the EPS to wear out sooner than they should, leading to steering problems.
5. Software glitches or calibration errors: When was the last time you updated your vehicle’s software systems? Not updating them regularly can lead to glitches or calibration errors that may affect the performance of your EPS.

How To Know If It Is Failing?

Look for the following signs if you think there is something off with your Mini Cooper’s electric power steering system.

• Sudden loss of power steering assist
• Whining or grinding noise while turning the wheel
• Power steering warning light on the dashboard
• Intermittent steering issues

Let's Talk Repair Options

#1- Repair/replace the defective parts: If your Mini’s power steering is not working the way it should, it could be due to the fact that one of the EPS components is malfunctioning. Replace or repair the defective part(s) to restore proper steering assistance and ensure safe, smooth driving.

#2- Check the power supply system: If the power supply failure is what resulted in the electric power steering failure in your Mini Cooper, have the vehicle’s electrical system inspected. Carefully examine the components like the alternator and the battery, replace or repair the defective parts to facilitate smooth power flow to the EPS system.

#3- Consider updating/reprogramming the software: Sometimes, the issue is not hardware-related… rather a software glitch or configuration problem with the EPS. To fix the issue, you might need to update/reprogram the system.

Summing Up

EPS is an essential driver assistance feature in modern vehicles. By facilitating smooth steering, it allows the driver to maneuver the vehicle during tricky driving conditions, especially at low speeds. Issues with a part of such significance can compromise driving comfort, safety, and overall vehicle control.

If you don’t want your Mini Cooper’s EPS to act up, ensure its upkeep. If it is not functioning the way it should, visit the nearest repair shop to have it checked by certified professionals.

We at Fifth Gear Automotive located in Frisco, TX are an independent auto repair & maintenance shop having years of experience in fixing Domestic, Import, and European vehicles. Our state-of-the-art repair facility is equipped with the latest tools.