Mini Cooper reportedly under investigation by NHTSA over power steering failures

Mini boasts about the go-kart like handling of its popular Cooper model. It's true, the car handles like a toy – except when the power-steering goes out. According to CNN Money, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is looking into numerous claims by owners that their power steering assistance suddenly disappeared.

So far 54 owners have complained of the issue, which may be blamed on a power steering pump failure. So far it seems that the issue is only showing up in some 2004 and 2005 model year cars. There have been no reported incidents and most drivers were able to maintain control of their vehicle. However, a few did report they struggled to do so.

BMW of North America, which owns Mini, has said it's aware of the investigation but has yet to receive any formal notice from NHTSA.

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[Source: CNN Money]