2005 Mini Cooper S power steering issues

[speedo]

Once in a while when I start the mini it has no power steering. If I shut the car off and re-start, it would come back to life...the power steering. Today it worked fine doing errands and then it stopped working and never came back. Fluid level is fine, fuse is fine. I read somewhere that when the fan goes, it blows a fuse and the pump won't work. Well fuse is fine. I also read that the PS system has it's own four codes, but an OBDII reader won't read those. My engine ECU is not throwing any codes. I also read that aerated fluid will sometimes cause it to not work. I see that the fan failure used to be a common issue...but I don't want to get the car up in the air and replace the fan if it it still operational. BTW, I have experienced no squealing from the PS pump ever.
What do you wizards suggest? I kinda like the creature comfort of PS...although my upper body is getting a workout while it is not. : )

[Matt at Pelican Parts]

From my research it seems that the power steering pump on these models is prone to locking up under high heat conditions. It sounds like this either due to the power steering fan or pump failing. Since you are not blowing a fuse it may be more difficult to pinpoint which is the culprit. We do have some DIY articles on replacing both which may be useful for you though:

Power Steering Fan Replacement
Power Steering Pump Replacement