Can someone please help? I have a 2004 Mini Cooper, automatic, 98000 miles, owned for 6 months.
1st problem- when I hit 50mph, the RPM's shoot up to 4, sometimes closer to 5, until I get to 70mph and it drops. Has anyone had this problem? Has anyone tried to get the transmission flush through Mini and seen any results? I am not sure if this would help the problem and can't spend 600.00 on the service if the problem isn't fixed. I can't keep stressing the car like this but it is almost impossible to drive under 50 or over 70.
2nd- problem- My battery died the other day; fair enough, given the high mileage and age.I had it jumped and drove home, planning on buying a new battery. When I turned the car off, I could still hear some part of the engine functioning, like a high pitched fan. THIS NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE.The next morning, the battery was dead. I bought a new battery but the noise still persists when I turn the car off. Right now I disconnected the battery because I can't wake up to a dead car again. I turned the wheel, (car off noise going) and the noise varied so I believe it is coming from the power steering area. Does this indicate that my power steering fan has shut down? Anyway to save it? Can I still drive or do I risk sucking the life out of the brand new battery? ANY advise at all on either of these 2 topics? FREAKING OUT. Would probably feel better if I knew an honest mechanic in CT.

 

Hm, Your second problem does sound like the electric power steering pump. I would bet it's a failed relay, I'd probably let the stealership take care of that problem. As for the transmission I have no idea, never been in an auto MINI.

 

Hey, I had the same problem in my 2002 cooper, it is the power steering motor and it needs to be replaced, at least mine did. You will drain the battery everytime if you leave it plugged in.

 

Thanks for all the help. It was the power steering pump, I replaced it.