Steering - Steering Gear Replacement After A Collision
SI M 32 04 05
Steering and Wheel Alignment
November 2005
Technical Service
SUBJECT
Replacement of Steering Gear Due to Accident Damage
MODEL
R50 (Cooper)
R52 (Cooper convertible and Cooper S convertible)
R53 (Cooper S)
SITUATION
Impacts due to accidents or similar driving conditions can cause damage to steering gears. It may be extremely difficult to diagnose internal damage
to steering gears which otherwise appear undamaged externally.
A thorough internal check of steering gears is generally not economically feasible. However, damage to other related components can be taken into
consideration when deciding whether a steering gear must be replaced.
INFORMATION
The steering gear does NOT have to be replaced if:
^ There is no visible damage to front axle parts such as spring struts, wheel hubs or carriers, control arms or wishbones, tie rods, front axle sub
frame, steering column, steering pump, steering fan, steering gear mounts, and attachment points for suspension components to body.
^ There is no binding or increase in turning effort when operating the steering gear from lock to lock with engine off.
^ The impact has not caused the wheel alignment to become not adjustable within specified tolerances using normal adjustment procedures.
The steering gear MUST be replaced if:
^ There is visible damage to the steering gear, including blackening or discoloration of the housing, e.g. from fire damage.
^ There is any permanent deformation or cracks on:
^ Front axle parts such as spring struts
^ Wheel hubs or carriers
^ Control arms or wishbones
^ Tie rods
^ Front axle sub frame
^ Steering column
^ Steering pump
^ Steering fan
^ Steering gear mounts
^ Attachment points for suspension components to body
2002-2006 Mini Cooper (R50) L4-1.6L (W10) Page 96
If a recommended replacement under the criteria described above is refused by the customer or insurance company, the repair order should be so
noted and signed by the refusing party.
