AN investigation has been launched in the United States after reports that Cowley-built Mini Cooper cars are suffering from potential power steering problems.

The US government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received 54 complaints about loss of power steering affecting the 2004-2005 model year. It is possible that cars in the UK could also be affected, a BMW spokesman said.

Tonight, Mini bosses said they were working with the agency to examine the cause of the issue which is alleged to result in the car becoming difficult to steer. The US versions of the Cooper are identical to those sold in the UK and Europe, meaning the potential problem could affect up to 80,000 cars.

Mini spokesman Wieland Bruch said: “It should be made clear we are talking about the auxiliary unit for the power steering — not the loss of steering ability.”

Has your Cooper been affected? Call the newsdesk on 01865 425500.