My steering wheel started sticking when making right turns (~15 deg constant turn). I can take my hands off the wheel and it just stays there. I am guessing that it is some sort of steering rack issue, but not sure. Has anyone else experienced this? This will probably be the first warranty work that I have had to do on my Mini, since purchasing in June.

 

Correct, and you should head to the dealer as they will have corrective action.
The electro-mechanical steering has been pretty solid; seems like you're having a odd-account.
Go into the dealer, have it checked / worked out.

- Erik

 

Could be tire / alignment too. Does this happen on more than one occasion/location? Could be a crowned road as well. Not necessarily the steering rack.

 

No the tires will not cause that issue, the previous advice was correct, bring it back to the dealer ASAP. It maker a mechanical issue or simply a reprogramming issue.