HI, I have a 2004 Mini Coop. My Power steering has been going in and out over the past weeks. If you re-start the car, the PS works for awhile, then goes out. I called the MINI service center and they said it was most likely the fluid. I added some PS fluid I had in the garage. It wasn't until after I added the fluid that I noticed it needed to be CHF 11s. What should I do? Thanks in advance!

 

Yes, CHF 11S is the correct fluid for BMW/MINI, however your problems were before the "oops" fluid add. From my experience, you have a power steering motor on the way out [sooner rather than later by the sound of it]. The replacement is possible DIY, but since this is your first post [welcome to NAM, btw], I'll go on a limb and say that you'll want to make a service appointment with your local MINI specialist [or dealer if you feel like getting ripped off]. It'll cost you a pretty penny to change out the PS motor, as it's not a cheap part, though labor should only be an hour or two at most.

Regarding your fluid mishap, when you change the PS motor you end up changing out all the fluid anyway. Just be sure your service guy knows he needs to use all brand-new fluid of the correct spec when you get the motor changed.

Good luck,
Ryan