I've been fighting a "engine needs service" for awhile. 2 different mechanics could not trace the problem. A 3rd finally found that the electric assisted steering pump is failing and is sucking voltage even when the car is shut off. He researched and found out that there was a recall notice on this a couple years ago. I have owned it since 2013 and never got a notice, even though I did get a recall notice on a different issue 4 or 5 year ago. Why did I not get a notice on this? Should I contact a Mini dealer to resolve this?

I went to local watering hole on Woodward Ave in Royal Oak, MI. Yes the Woodward Ave. Approximately 30 minutes later somebody called the fire department and came in the bar to tell whoever owned a mini that it was on fire. By the time the fire department got there it was just smoldering and and put it out in just 2 minutes. I took it to my local repair guy and the power steering pump was what failed. Must have have shorted internally and caught wiring on fire. Odd thing was that the cooling fan which I expected to have been the cause, bench tested fine. I expect that they know about this problem but are hoping to not recall because of the expense. I will contact Minicooper Monday but expect same run around all the other complaints have gotten. There should be a RECALL.

This car has cost me more in repairs than any other car I've owned. Very unreliable and extremely expensive to repair. I will never buy a MINI again due to the fact that I will have to have thousands of dollars reserved for repairs. I've had issues from steering problems, engine mounts, clutches, back up sensors, oil leaks, oxygen sensors, struts, and bushing replacements. This is a money pit. I'm looking forward to get the new Civic SI. At least I know that wont leave me stranded to where I miss 2 days of work. I think at least 2 of the complaints should be official recalls.