High Pitch Noise

[dgogue]

Hello,
My name is Dave home-ported here in Honolulu Hawaii. I have a question, I know that the pwr steering pmp is electric and I have this problem when 1st starting the mini up in the morning or even after a round of golf, it makes this high pitch noise coming from the engine at first I taught it was the power steering pump thinking low on fluid but after researching found out that it is electrical type of pump. So I jacked up my Mini and placed jack stands on appropriate place where Mini recommends and I started the car up, I pin pointed that pitch noise and was coming from the oil pan, I also placed a screw driver on the pan and listen and sure enough it is coming from the oil pan, my question is could there be a relief valve stuck in the close position that is in close proximity of the oil pan? I am completely baffled with this issue, the other cause might be the timing belt assy being loose but from that high pitch noise I am really leaning to other issues. I only have 35 K on my Mini 2009 1.6L L4, DOHC 16 valve Base type Mini. Wondering if any one can help me on this issue. Thanks

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

There is an electrical solenoid associated with the oil pump. Perhaps it could be going bad? The one on my 2012 leaked, and was replaced by the dealer. The leak went into the wiring harness, which also had to be replaced, which meant the thermostat housing (and t-stat) were replaced because the new harness connector was different than the old one.

I'm not sure what else is down in the pan, though.

--DD

[dgogue]

Thanks Dave,
I will definitely take a look at that electrical solenoid. Will let you know what I find. Mahalo