Mini one power steering question

[Tokek61]

I’ve recently bought a 2005 mini one 7 as a family run around. It’s done under 60k miles with a fsh and apart from a few niggles including needing to replace an ABS sensor it’s been great so far. But I’ve noticed that the power steering seems pretty stiff compared to our other lease cars which are featherweight. I’ve done a couple of experiments and with the engine off but steering lock disengaged and the wheel is almost immovable, but with the engine running it moves ok but stiff. It also whines a bit on full lock. Not really a problem but just wondered if this was normal for minis or if it’s something I should be having checked out. Thanks in advance.

[E-bmw]

What you describe is pretty much what each one I tried (including the one I bought) a few years ago, although they do have a bit of a reputation for junking PAS pumps if the fan seizes, which can happen as they are reasonably exposed underneath.