andreasmeyer3

Mini Countryman Power Steering Issue

I come to you today with a rather concerning issue plaguing my beloved 2019 Mini Countryman. The vehicle has developed a rather disconcerting fault in the power steering system. The symptoms are quite alarming: the steering wheel vibrates and shakes noticeably, the handling feels spongy and unresponsive, and, to top it all off, an error is stored in the error memory. Furthermore, increased effort is required when steering, almost as if the power steering has failed altogether. Now, I've read that a likely cause could be a defective cable or plug connection of the component. Has anyone else experienced something similar? What steps should I consider before potentially facing a hefty repair bill?

4 comment(s)

Whoa, vibrating steering wheel and spongy handling in your Countryman? Sounds unsettling. I had a similar issue with my old sedan, though it's a different brand. The steering felt really off. Did you check the hydraulic fluid level? It might sound basic, but a low level can cause the steering pump to work harder and create those symptoms. Just a thought!

Hydraulic fluid, you say? That's an interesting point. I hadn't considered checking it myself, to be honest. But would low fluid really cause such violent shaking in the steering wheel? And the spongy feeling too? I mean, wouldn't that more likely be a pressure hose or the steering pump itself failing?

Yeah, it's worth checking the fluid level. In my case, the low fluid caused the pump to whine and the steering to feel jerky. But if you're getting shaking and error codes, it could definitely be more than just low fluid. A defective cable or plug connection would make sense given the error code. Honestly, with those symptoms, I'd recommend getting it checked out by a workshop. They can properly diagnose the issue and prevent further damage.

Alright, an update for you: turns out you were spot on with your suspicion. I took my Mini Countryman to the workshop, and after a thorough inspection, they confirmed it was indeed a defective cable or plug connection related to the power steering. They fixed the connection for a mere 95€, and the difference is night and day. Steering feels responsive again, and that awful shaking is gone. Thanks for the insight; it saved me a lot of unnecessary worry and potentially expensive part replacements!

Join the discussion now: