Watch CBS News

Mini Recalls 86,000 Cars To Fix Power Steering Problems

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

DETROIT (CBSMiami/AP) —  Automaker BMW's Mini Brand issued a recall of 86,000 cars due to power steering issues, under pressure from U.S. regulators.

The recall covers the Mini Cooper and Cooper S models from 2002 to 2005. BMW says in documents filed with regulators that the power steering can fail because of manufacturing or other issues. If that happens, manual steering remains but it would take greater effort to steer.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began investigating the cars in 2010 after getting 339 complaints including five minor crashes and three fires involving melted wires.

BMW at first extended steering warranties, but last month the agency sought a recall. BMW agreed but said the problem wasn't an unreasonable safety risk. Dealers will replace power steering parts if needed starting in December.

MINI said in a statement Wednesday that owners will be notified by letter when they can take cars to dealerships. Repairs will be made at no cost to owners. The cars currently are covered by a 13-year, 150,000-mile power steering warranty.

(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS
Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or
redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.