I have a 2002 and it has a clicking, creaking noise coming from the steering wheel only when I turn the wheel to make a U turn or when I'm parking, for example. It makes more noise when I turn to the left than the right.
I'm going to do the lubrication on mine and see if it clears it up.
I have no play and it only sounds like the nylon bushing is dry and creaky.
check out the link for info on how to fix yours if you have the dreaded steering wheel click on the early Mini's.
http://www.mini2.com/forum/faults-fi...ng-column.html