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

 

http://www.mini2.com/forum/faults-fi...ng-column.html

 

email me for the link. Apparently the forum does not allow links to be shown.

 

replace the steering column, oly way other than to replace shaft bearings which are not available.

 

I fixed mine with some TriFlo lubricant.

Did not need to remove anything and it is quiet and smooth now!

I read in some other forums where people where getting their steering colums replaced for the problem and six months later, it had come back.

JB