
Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 601 017 - © 08/08 BMW AG

Cooper
Cooper S
John Cooper
Works
Congratulations on your new MINI
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of
this vehicle. It should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide
the next owner with important operating, safety and mainte-
nance information.
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 601 017 - © 08/08 BMW AG

© 2008 Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of
BMW AG, Munich.
US English VIII/08
Printed on environmentally friendly paper,
bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.
Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 601 017 - © 08/08 BMW AG

REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
3
CONTENTS
The fastest way to find information on a particu-
lar topic or item is by using the index, refer to
page 146.
Using this Owner's Manual
4 Notes
6 Reporting safety defects
AT A GLANCE
10 Cockpit
CONTROLS
18 Opening and closing
29 Adjustments
35 Transporting children safely
38 Driving
48 Everything under control
57 Technology for driving comfort and safety
67 Lamps
72 Climate
77 Practical interior accessories
DRIVING TIPS
84 Things to remember when driving
MOBILITY
94 Refueling
96 Wheels and tires
105 Under the bonnet
109 Maintenance
111 Care
115 Replacing components
125 Giving and receiving assistance
129 Indicator and warning lamps
REFERENCE
142 Technical data
146 From A to Z
Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 601 017 - © 08/08 BMW AG

Notes
4
Notes
Using this Owner's
Manual
We have tried to make all the information in this
Owner's Manual easy to find. The fastest way to
find specific topics is to refer to the detailed
index at the back of the manual. If you wish to
gain an initial overview of your vehicle, you will
find this in the first chapter.
Should you wish to sell your MINI at some time in
the future, remember to hand over this Owner's
Manual to the new owner; it is an important part
of the vehicle.
Additional sources of information
Should you have any other questions, your MINI
Dealer will be glad to advise you at any time.
You can find more information about the MINI,
for example on its technology, on the Internet at
www.MINI.com.
Symbols used
Indicates precautions that must be fol-
lowed precisely in order to avoid the pos-
sibility of personal injury and serious damage to
the vehicle.<
Indicates information that will assist you in
gaining the optimum benefit from your
vehicle and enable you to care more effectively
for your vehicle.<
Refers to measures that can be taken to
help protect the environment.<
< Marks the end of a specific item of information.
*
Indicates special equipment, country-specific
equipment and optional extras, as well as equip-
ment and functions not yet available at the time
of printing.
Symbols on vehicle components
Indicates that you should consult the rele-
vant section of this Owner's Manual for
information on a particular part or assembly.
The individual vehicle
The manufacturer of your MINI is the Bayerische
Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft, BMW AG.
When you ordered your MINI, you chose various
items of equipment. This Owner's Manual
describes the entire array of options and equip-
ment that the manufacturer of your MINI makes
available with a specific model range.
Bear in mind that the manual may contain infor-
mation on accessories and equipment that you
have not specified for your own vehicle. Sections
describing options and special equipment are
marked by asterisks
*
to assist you in identifying
possible differences between the descriptions in
this manual and your own vehicle's equipment.
If your MINI features equipment not described in
this Owner's Manual, observe the enclosed Sup-
plementary Owner's Manuals.
Editorial notice
The manufacturer pursues a policy of continu-
ous, ongoing development that is conceived to
ensure that MINI vehicles continue to embody
the highest quality and safety standards com-
bined with advanced, state-of-the-art technol-
ogy. For this reason, it is possible in exceptional
cases that features described in this Owner's
Manual could differ from those on your vehicle.
For your safety
Maintenance and repair
Advanced technology, e.g. the use of
modern materials and powerful electron-
ics, requires specially adapted maintenance and
repair methods. Therefore, have the necessary
work on your MINI only carried out by a MINI
Dealer or a workshop that has specially trained
personnel working in accordance with the spec-
ifications of the MINI manufacturer. If this work
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
5
is not carried out properly, there is a danger of
subsequent damage and related safety haz-
ards.<
Parts and accessories
For your own safety, use genuine parts
and accessories approved by the manu-
facturer of the MINI.
When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by the manufacturer of the MINI
and Original MINI Parts, you simultaneously
acquire the assurance that they have been thor-
oughly tested by the manufacturer of the MINI
to ensure optimum performance when installed
on your vehicle.
The manufacturer of the MINI warrants these
parts to be free from defects in material and
workmanship.
The manufacturer of the MINI will not accept any
liability for damage resulting from installation of
parts and accessories not approved by the man-
ufacturer of the MINI.
The manufacturer of the MINI cannot test every
product made by other manufacturers to verify
if it can be used on a MINI safely and without risk
to either the vehicle, its operation, or its occu-
pants.
Original MINI Parts, MINI Accessories and other
products approved by the manufacturer of the
MINI, together with professional advice on using
these items, are available from all MINI Dealers.
Installation and operation of non-MINI
approved accessories such as alarms, radios,
amplifiers, radar detectors, wheels, suspension
components, brake dust shields, telephones,
including operation of any mobile phone from
within the vehicle without using an externally
mounted antenna, or transceiver equipment, for
instance, CBs, walkie-talkies, ham radios or sim-
ilar accessories, may cause extensive damage to
the vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere with
the vehicle's electrical system or affect the valid-
ity of the MINI Limited Warranty. See your MINI
Dealer for additional information.<
Maintenance, replacement, or repair of
the emission control devices and systems
may be performed by any automotive repair
establishment or individual using any certified
automotive part.<
California Proposition 65 warning
California law requires us to issue the following
warning:
Engine exhaust and a wide variety of
automobile components and parts,
including components found in the interior fur-
nishings in a vehicle, contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects and reproductive harm. In
addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and
certain products of component wear contain or
emit chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro-
ductive harm.
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your
hands after handling.
Used engine oil contains chemicals that have
caused cancer in laboratory animals. Always
protect your skin by washing thoroughly with
soap and water.<
Service and warranty
We recommend that you read this publication
thoroughly.
Your MINI is covered by the following warran-
ties:
> New Vehicle Limited Warranty
> Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
> Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
> Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
> California Emission Control System Limited
Warranty
Detailed information about these warranties is
listed in the Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models or in the Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models.
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Notes
6
Reporting safety defects
For US customers
The following applies only to vehicles owned
and operated in the US.
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect
which could cause a crash or could cause injury
or death, you should immediately inform the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,
NHTSA, in addition to notifying MINI of North
America, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New
Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone 1-800-831-
1117.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may
open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety
defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order
a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA
cannot become involved in individual problems
between you, your dealer, or MINI of North
America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236
(TTY: 1-800-424-9153);
go to http://www.safercar.gov; or write to:
Administrator, NHTSA, 400 Seventh Street, SW.,
Washington, DC 20590. You can also obtain
other information about motor vehicle safety
from http://www.safercar.gov
For Canadian customers
Canadian customers who wish to report a
safety-related defect to Transport Canada,
Defect Investigations and Recalls, may call
1-800-333-0510 toll-free from anywhere in
Canada or 1-613-993-9851 from the Ottawa
region and from other countries, or contact
Transport Canada by mail at: Transport Canada,
ASFAD, Place de Ville, Tower C, 330 Sparks
Street, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0N5.
You can also obtain other information about
motor vehicle safety from http://www.tc.gc.ca
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AT A GLANCE
CONTROLS
DRIVING TIPS
MOBILITY
REFERENCE
AT A GLANCE
Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 601 017 - © 08/08 BMW AG

Cockpit
10
Cockpit
Around the steering wheel: Controls and displays
1 Adjusting the exterior mirrors, folding them
in and out
*
33
2
Parking lamps 67
Low beams 67
Automatic headlamp control
*
67
Turn signals 42
High beams 69
Headlamp flasher 42
Roadside parking lamps
*
69
Computer
*
49
3 Tachometer 12
Instrument lighting 70
Resetting the trip odometer 48
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11
6 Ignition lock 38
7 Buttons
*
on steering wheel
8 Horn: the entire surface
9 Adjusting the steering wheel 34
10 Releasing the bonnet 105
4
Wiper system 43
5
Switching the ignition on/off and
starting/stopping the engine 38
Continuing cruise control
*
45
Right:
Storing speed and accelerating or
decelerating
Left:
Volume
Activating/deactivating cruise
control
*
46
Telephone
*
:
Accepting and ending a call, start-
ing dialing
*
of selected phone
number and redialing if no phone
number is selected
Activating/deactivating voice com-
mand system
*
Changing radio station
Selecting music track
Scrolling through phone book and
lists with stored phone numbers
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Cockpit
12
Displays
1 Tachometer 48
with indicator and warning lamps 13
2 Display for
> Clock 48
> Outside temperature 48
> Current vehicle speed 48
> Indicator and warning lamps 13
3 Resetting the trip odometer 48
4 Display for
> Position of automatic transmission
*
40
> Computer
*
49
> Date of next scheduled service, and
remaining distance to be driven 53
> Odometer and trip odometer 48
> Initializing the Flat Tire Monitor
*
60
> Resetting the Tire Pressure Monitor
*
62
> Settings and information 50
> Personal Profile settings 18
5 Instrument lighting 70
6 Speedometer
with indicator and warning lamps 13
7 Fuel gauge 49
8 Radio display, refer to separate Owner's
Manual
9 Radio, refer to separate Owner's Manual
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
13
Indicator and warning
lamps
The concept
Indicator and warning lamps can light up in various
combinations and colors in indicator area 1 or 2.
Some lamps are checked for proper functioning
and thus come on briefly when the engine is
started or the ignition is switched on.
What to do in case of a malfunction
A list of all indicator and warning lamps, as well
as notes on possible causes of malfunctions and
on how to respond, can be found starting on
page 129.
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Cockpit
14
Around the center console
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
15
1 Microphone for voice command system
*
and for telephone in hands-free mode
*
2 Indicator/warning lamp
*
for front passen-
ger airbags 66
4 Hazard warning flashers
5 Speedometer 12
6 Drive for audio CDs
7 Switching audio sources on/off and adjust-
ing volume
8 Air conditioner or automatic climate con-
trol
*
9 Switches in center console
10 AUX-In port, USB-audio interface
*
79
11 Driving stability control systems
> Dynamic Stability Control DSC 58
> Dynamic Traction Control
DTC
*
58
12 Sport button
*
60
3
Reading lamps
*
70
Color of ambient lighting
*
71
Glass sunroof, electric
*
27
Interior lamps 70
Temperature 73, 75
Recirculated-air mode 73, 75
Automatic recirculated-air control
AUC
*
and recirculated-air mode 75
Air distribution for air
conditioner 73
Air distribution to the
windshield
*
75
Air distribution to the upper body
area
*
75
Air distribution to the footwell
*
75
Automatic air distribution and flow
rate
*
75
Maximum cooling
*
75
Cooling function 73, 76
Defrosting windows
*
74, 76
Rear window defroster 73, 75
Windshield heating
*
74, 76
Air flow rate 73, 74
Seat heating
*
32
Power windows 28
Rear fog lamp
*
70
Central locking system, inside 22
Fog lamps
*
70
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CONTROLS
AT A GLANCE
DRIVING TIPS
MOBILITY
REFERENCE
CONTROLS
Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 601 017 - © 08/08 BMW AG

Opening and closing
18
Opening and closing
Keys/remote controls
Remote control
Each remote control contains a rechargeable
battery that is recharged when it is in the igni-
tion lock while the car is being driven. You
should therefore use each remote control at
least twice a year to maintain the charge status.
In vehicles equipped with convenient access
*
,
the remote control contains a replaceable bat-
tery, page 27.
If more than one remote control is used, the set-
tings called up and implemented depend on
which remote control is recognized when the
car is unlocked, refer to Personal Profile,
page 18.
In addition, information about service require-
ments is stored in the remote control, refer to
Service data in the remote control, page 109.
New remote controls
Your MINI Dealer can supply new remote con-
trols as additional units or as replacements in the
event of loss.
Integrated key
Press button 1 to release the key.
The integrated key fits the following locks:
> Driver's door, page 22
Personal Profile
The concept
The functions of your MINI can be set individu-
ally. By means of Personal Profiles, most of these
settings are stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use. When you unlock the car, the
remote control is recognized and the settings
stored for it are called up and implemented.
This means that your settings will be activated
for you, even if in the meantime your car was
used by someone else with another remote con-
trol and the corresponding settings.
At most three remote controls can be set for
three different people. A prerequisite is that
each person uses a separate remote control.
Personal Profile settings
For more information on specific settings, refer
to the specified pages.
> Response of the central locking system
when the car is being unlocked 19
> Automatic locking of the vehicle 22
> Triple turn signal activation 42
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
19
> Settings for the displays on the onboard
monitor, in the speedometer and in the
tachometer.
> 12h/24h mode of the clock, refer to For-
mats and units of measure 51
> Date format, refer to Formats and units
of measure 51
> Units of measure for fuel consumption,
distance covered/remaining distances
and temperature, refer to Formats and
units of measure 51
> Light settings:
> Pathway lighting 67
> Daytime running lamps 68
> Automatic climate control
*
: AUTO program,
activating/deactivating cooling function and
automatic recirculated-air control, setting
temperature, air flow rate and
distribution 74
> Entertainment:
> Audio volume, refer to separate Owner's
Manual
> Speed-dependent volume, refer to sepa-
rate Owner's Manual
Central locking system
The concept
The central locking system is ready for operation
whenever the driver's door is closed.
The system simultaneously engages and
releases the locks on the following:
> Doors
> Splitdoor
> Fuel filler door
Operating from outside
> Via the remote control
> Via the door lock
*
> In cars with convenient access
*
, via the door
handles on the driver's and passenger's
sides
The anti-theft system is also operated at the
same time. It prevents the doors from being
unlocked using the lock buttons or door han-
dles. The remote control can also be used to
switch on/off the welcome lamps and interior
lamps. The alarm system
*
is also activated or
deactivated (page 24).
Operating from inside
Button for central locking system, page 22.
In the event of a sufficiently severe accident, the
central locking system unlocks automatically. In
addition, the hazard warning flashers and inte-
rior lamps come on.
Opening and closing:
from outside
Persons or animals in a parked vehicle
could lock the doors from the inside. Take
the key with you when you leave the vehicle so
that the vehicle can be opened from the out-
side.<
Using the remote control
Unlocking
Press the button.
The welcome lamps and interior lamps come on.
Unlocking mode
You can also set which parts of the car are
unlocked. The setting is stored for the remote
control in use.
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Opening and closing
20
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 38.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
display shows the illustrated symbol, arrow.
7. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
8. Briefly press the button to select:
>
Press the button once to unlock
only the driver's door and the fuel filler
door.
Press the button twice to unlock the
entire vehicle.
>
Press the button once to unlock
the entire vehicle.
9. Press and hold the button until the display
changes. The setting is stored for the remote
control currently in use.
Convenient opening
Hold the button down.
The power windows are opened and the glass
sunroof
*
is raised.
Convenient closing is not possible by
means of the remote control.<
Locking
Press the button.
Do not lock the vehicle from the outside if
there is any person inside, because the
vehicle cannot be unlocked from inside without
special knowledge.<
Setting confirmation signals
To have the vehicle confirm when it has been
locked or unlocked.
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 38.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
21
4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Briefly press the button to select, arrow:
> Confirmation signal during unlocking
> Confirmation signal during locking
7. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
8. Briefly press the button to select:
>
The hazard warning flashers light up dur-
ing unlocking/locking.
>
An acoustic signal sounds during unlock-
ing/locking.
>
The hazard warning flashers light up and
an acoustic signal
*
sounds during
unlocking/locking.
9. Press and hold the button until the display
changes. The setting is stored.
Switching on interior lamps
While the car is locked:
Press the button.
You can also use this function to locate your
vehicle in parking garages, etc.
Unlocking the splitdoor
Press the button.
When it is opened, the splitdoor swings
upward and outward to the rear. Ensure
that there is sufficient clearance.
To prevent accidentally locking yourself out, do
not place the key down in the cargo bay. If the
splitdoor was locked before opening, it will be
locked again after it is closed.
Before and after each trip, check that the split-
door has not been inadvertently unlocked.<
Malfunctions
The remote control may malfunction due to
local radio waves. If this occurs, unlock and lock
the car at the door lock with the integrated key.
If the car can no longer be locked with a remote
control, the battery in the remote control is dis-
charged. Use this remote control during an
extended drive; this will recharge the battery,
page 18.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units comply with
part 15 of the FCC/Federal Communications
Commission regulations. Operation is governed
by the following:
FCC ID:
LX8766S
LX8766E
LX8CAS
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
> This device must not cause harmful interfer-
ence, and
> This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications or
changes to these devices could void the
user's authority to operate this equipment.<
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Opening and closing
22
Using the door lock
You can set which parts of the car are unlocked,
page 19.
When there is no alarm system
*
or conve-
nient access
*
, only the driver's door is
locked with the door lock.<
To lock all doors, the fuel filler door and splitdoor
together:
With the doors closed, press the interior central
locking button (page 22) to lock the vehicle.
Unlocking and opening the driver or passenger
door, page 22.
Locking the vehicle.
> Lock the driver's door with the integrated
key via the door lock, or
> press the safety lock button on the pas-
senger's door and close the door from
the outside.
Convenient operation
With an alarm system
*
or convenient access
*
,
the windows and glass sunroof
*
can be oper-
ated via the door lock.
Hold the key in the position for unlocking or
locking.
Watch during the closing process to be
sure that no one is injured. Releasing the
key stops the operation.<
Manual operation
In the event of an electrical malfunction, the
driver's door can be unlocked or locked by turn-
ing the integrated key in the door lock to the end
positions.
Opening and closing:
from inside
The switch locks or unlocks the doors and split-
door when the doors are closed, but the anti-
theft system is not activated. The fuel filler door
remains unlocked
*
.
Unlocking and opening
> Either unlock the doors together using the
switch for the central locking system and
then pull the door handle above the armrest
or
> pull on the door handle of either door twice:
the first time unlocks the door, the second
time opens it.
Locking
> Press the switch or
> press down the safety lock button of a door.
To prevent you from being locked out, the
open driver's door cannot be locked using
the lock button.
Persons or animals in a parked vehicle
could lock the doors from the inside. Take
the key with you when you leave the vehicle so
that the vehicle can be opened from the out-
side.<
Automatic locking
You can also set the situations in which the car
locks. The setting is stored for the remote con-
trol in use.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
23
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 38.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
display shows the illustrated symbol, arrow.
7. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
8. Briefly press the button to select:
>
The central locking system automatically
locks the vehicle after some time if no
door has been opened.
>
The central locking system automatically
locks the vehicle as soon as you drive off.
>
The central locking system automatically
locks the vehicle after some time if no
door has been opened, or as soon as you
drive off.
>
The central locking system remains
unlocked.
9. Press and hold the button until the display
changes. The setting is stored.
Clubdoor
Opening
The Clubdoor can only be opened using the han-
dle on the inside. The right-hand front door must
be open when opening the Clubdoor.
Closing
First close the Clubdoor, followed by the right-
hand front door.
Splitdoor
To avoid damage, make sure there is suf-
ficient clearance before opening the split-
door.<
Opening
In some national-market versions, the split-
door cannot be unlocked using the remote
control unless the vehicle is unlocked first.
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Opening and closing
24
Only drive with the splitdoor fully closed, otherwise
the tail lamps will be obscured and driving safety
will be compromised.<
Press the button in the handle or the but-
ton of the remote control for an extended time.
The splitdoor is unlocked.
Using the button in the handle, fully open first
the right side, arrow 1, and then the left side of
the splitdoor, arrow 2.
Closing
Make sure that the closing path of the
splitdoor is clear, otherwise injuries may
occur.<
Close the left side, arrow 1, and then the right
side of the splitdoor, arrow 2.
Alarm system*
The principle
The alarm system, when activated, reacts if:
> A door, the engine compartment lid or the
tailgate is opened
> There is movement inside the car
> The car's inclination changes, for instance if
an attempt is made to jack it up and steal the
wheels or to raise it prior to towing away
> There is an interruption in the power supply
from the battery
The alarm system briefly indicates unauthorized
entry or tampering by means of:
> An acoustic alarm
> Switching on the hazard warning flashers
Arming and disarming
Whenever the car is locked or unlocked, the
alarm system is armed or disarmed.
Even when the alarm system is armed, you can
open the tailgate by means of the button
on the remote control.
When you subsequently close the tailgate it is
again locked and monitored.
On certain national-market versions,
unlocking via the door lock triggers off the
alarm.<
Panic mode*
You can activate the alarm system if you find
yourself in a dangerous situation.
Press the button for at least two seconds.
Switching off the alarm:
Press any button.
Switching off an alarm
> Unlock the car with the remote control.
> Insert the key fully into the ignition lock.
> In cars with convenient access
*
, press the
button on the door lock.
Display on the revolution counter
When the system is armed, all LEDs pulse. After
approx. 16 minutes one LED flashes.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
25
> LEDs pulse or LED flashes: system is armed.
> One LED flashes at short intervals:
A door, the bonnet or the tailgate is not
properly closed. Even if these are not closed
fully, the remaining items are deadlocked
and the LEDs pulse after approx. 10 seconds
for approx. 16 minutes. Afterwards, one LED
flashes.
The interior movement detector is not acti-
vated.
> LEDs go out after the vehicle is unlocked:
No attempt was made to tamper with the
car.
> LEDs flash after unlocking until the key is
inserted in the ignition, but for no longer
than approx. 5 minutes: an attempt was
made to tamper with the car.
Tilt alarm sensor
The vehicle's inclination is monitored. The alarm
is triggered, for instance, if an attempt is made
to steal the car's wheels or tow it away.
Interior movement detector
Before the interior movement detector can
operate correctly, the windows and glass roof
must be closed.
Avoiding false alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and the interior movement
detector can be switched off together.
This prevents false alarms, e.g. in the following
situations:
> In duplex garages
> When being transported on car-carrying
trains, ferries or trailers
> If pets are to remain inside the car
Switching off the tilt alarm sensor and
interior movement detector
> Press the button on the remote con-
trol twice in succession.
> Lock the vehicle twice with the integrated
key.
LEDs flash in short succession for approx. 2 sec-
onds.
The tilt alarm sensor and the interior movement
detector are switched off until the car is next
unlocked and locked.
Convenient access*
Convenient access enables you to enter your
vehicle without having to hold the remote con-
trol in your hand. All you need to do is wear the
remote control close to your body, e.g. in your
jacket pocket. The vehicle automatically detects
the remote control within the immediate vicinity
or in the passenger compartment.
Convenient access supports the following func-
tions:
> Unlocking/locking the vehicle
> Unlocking the splitdoor by itself
> Enginestarting
> Convenient operation
Functional requirements
> The vehicle or the splitdoor can only be
locked when the vehicle detects that the
remote control currently in use is outside of
the vehicle.
> The vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked
again until after approx. 2 seconds.
> The engine can only be started when the
vehicle detects that the remote control is
inside the vehicle.
> The doors and splitdoor must be closed to be
able to operate the windows and glass sun-
roof.
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Opening and closing
26
Comparison to standard remote controls
In general, there is no difference between using
convenient access or pressing the buttons on
the remote control to carry out the functions
mentioned above.
Instructions on opening and closing are found
starting on page 18.
Special features regarding the use of convenient
access are described below.
If you notice a brief delay while opening or
closing the windows or glass sunroof, the
system is checking whether a remote control is
inside the vehicle. Repeat the opening or closing
procedure, if necessary.<
Unlocking
Press button 1.
Convenient opening with the remote control,
refer to page 20.
Locking
Press button 1.
For convenient closing, press and hold button 1.
The power windows and the glass sunroof
*
are
closed.
Unlocking the splitdoor separately
Press the button on the outside of the splitdoor.
If the vehicle detects that a remote control
has been accidentally left inside the
locked vehicle's cargo bay after the splitdoor is
closed, the splitdoor will reopen slightly. The
hazard warning flashers flash and an acoustic
signal
*
sounds.<
Windows and glass sunroof, electric*
If the engine is switched off, you can still operate
the windows and glass sunroof so long as a door
or the splitdoor has not been opened.
If the doors and splitdoor are closed again and
the remote control is located inside the vehicle,
the windows and the glass sunroof can be oper-
ated again.
Insert the remote control into the ignition lock to
be able to operate the windows or glass sunroof
when the engine is switched off and the doors
are open.
Switching on radio readiness
Switch on radio readiness by briefly pressing the
start/stop button, page 38.
Do not depress the brake or the clutch,
otherwise the engine will start.<
Starting the engine
The engine can be started or the ignition can be
switched on when a remote control is inside the
vehicle. It is not necessary to insert a remote
control into the ignition lock, page 38.
Switching off the engine in cars with
automatic transmission
The engine can only be switched off when the
selector lever is in position P, page 39.
To switch the engine off when the selector lever
is in position N, the remote control must be in
the ignition lock.
Before driving a vehicle with automatic
transmission into a car wash
1. Insert remote control into ignition lock.
2. Depress the brake.
3. Move the selector lever to position N.
4. Switch off the engine.
The vehicle can roll.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
27
Malfunction
Convenient access may malfunction due to local
radio waves.
If this happens, open or close the vehicle via the
buttons on the remote control or using the inte-
grated key.
Insert the remote control into the ignition lock
and start the engine.
Warning lamps
The warning lamp comes on when an
attempt is made to start the engine: the
engine cannot be started. The remote
control is not inside the vehicle or is malfunc-
tioning. Take the remote control with you inside
the vehicle or have it checked. If necessary,
insert another remote control into the ignition
lock.
The warning lamp comes on when the
engine is running: the remote control is
no longer inside the vehicle. After the
engine is switched off, the engine can only be
restarted within approx. 10 seconds.
The indicator lamp comes on: replace
the battery in the remote control.
Replacing the battery
The remote control for convenient access con-
tains a battery that will need to be replaced from
time to time.
1. Remove the cover.
2. Insert the new battery with the plus side fac-
ing up.
3. Press the cover on to close.
Take the old battery to a battery collection
point or to your MINI Dealer.<
Glass sunroof, electric*
To prevent injuries, exercise care when
closing the glass sunroof and keep it in
your field of vision until it is shut.
Take the key with you when you leave the car,
otherwise children could operate the sunroof
and possibly injure themselves.<
Raising
> Press the switch backward to the resistance
point and hold it there.
Both glass sunroofs are raised.
Releasing the switch stops the movement.
> With the ignition switched on, press the
switch backward beyond the resistance
point.
Both closed sunroofs are raised fully.
Pressing again stops the movement.
Opening, closing
With the ignition switched on and the glass sun-
roof raised, press the switch backward and hold
it there.
The front glass sunroof opens.
The rear glass sunroof is closed.
Releasing the switch stops the movement.
The glass sunroof can be closed in the same way
by pressing the switch forward.
The front glass sunroof remains in a raised posi-
tion. The rear glass sunroof is raised. Pressing on
the switch again closes both sunroofs com-
pletely.
Roller sun blind
The roller sun blind can be opened and closed
independently of the glass sunroof.
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Opening and closing
28
Following interruptions in electrical
power supply
After a power failure, there is a possibility that
the glass sunroof can only be raised. In this case,
have the system initialized. The manufacturer of
your MINI recommends that you have this work
done by your MINI Dealer.
Windows
To prevent injuries, exercise care when
closing the windows and keep them in
your field of vision until they are shut.
Take the remote control with you when you
leave the car, otherwise children could operate
the electric windows and possibly injure them-
selves.<
If, after a window is opened and closed
several times in close succession, the win-
dow can only be closed and not opened, the sys-
tem is overheated. Let the system cool for sev-
eral minutes with the ignition switched on or the
engine running.<
Opening, closing
> Press the switch downwards.
The window opens until you release the
switch.
> Tap the switch downwards.
The window opens automatically if the igni-
tion is switched on. Tap the switch again to
stop the opening movement.
The window can be closed in the same way by
pressing the switch up.
After switching off the ignition
When the ignition is switched off, the windows
can still be operated for approx. 1 minute as
long as no door is opened.
Take the key with you when you leave the
car, otherwise children could operate the
electric windows and possibly injure them-
selves.<
Pinch protection system
If the closing force exceeds a specific value as a
window closes, the closing action is interrupted
and the window reopens slightly.
Even though there is the pinch protection
system, always ensure that the window's
travel path is clear, otherwise the safety system
might fail to detect certain kinds of obstructions,
such as thin objects, and the window would con-
tinue closing.
Do not install any accessories that might inter-
fere with window movement. Otherwise the
pinch protection system could be impaired.<
Closing without pinch protection
If there is an external danger, or if ice on the win-
dows, etc., prevents you from closing the win-
dows normally, the window can be closed man-
ually.
1. Press the switch upward and hold it there.
Pinch protection is limited and the window
reopens slightly if the closing force exceeds
a certain value.
2. Press the switch upward again within ap-
prox. 4 seconds and hold it there. The win-
dow closes without pinch protection.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
29
Adjustments
Sitting safely
The ideal sitting position can make a vital contri-
bution to relaxed, fatigue-free driving. In con-
junction with the safety belts, the head restraints
and the airbags, the seated position has a major
influence on your safety in the event of an acci-
dent. To ensure that the safety systems operate
with optimal efficiency, we strongly urge you to
observe the instructions contained in the follow-
ing section.
For additional information on transporting chil-
dren safely, refer to page 35.
Airbags
Always maintain an adequate distance
between yourself and the airbags. Always
grip the steering wheel on the rim, with your
hands in the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions, to
minimize the risk of injury to the hands or arms
in the event of the airbag being triggered off.
No one and nothing is to come between the air-
bags and the seat occupant.
Do not use the cover of the front airbag on the
front passenger side as a storage area. Ensure
that the front passenger is correctly seated, e.g.
that no feet or legs are propped against the
dashboard. Otherwise, leg injury could result if
the front airbag suddenly deployed.
Make sure that passengers do not lean their
heads against the side airbags, otherwise seri-
ous injuries could result if the airbags suddenly
deployed.<
Even if you follow all the instructions, injuries
resulting from contact with airbags cannot be
fully excluded, depending on the circumstances.
The ignition and inflation noise may provoke a
mild hearing loss in extremely sensitive individ-
uals. This effect is usually only temporary.
For airbag locations and additional information
on airbags, refer to page 65.
Head restraint
A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the
risk of neck injury in the event of an accident.
Adjust the head restraint in such a way
that its center is at approx. ear level. Oth-
erwise, there is an increased risk of injury in the
event of an accident.<
Head restraints, refer to page 31.
Safety belt
Before every drive, make sure that all occupants
wear their safety belts. Airbags complement the
safety belt as an additional safety device, but
they do not represent a substitute.
Never allow more than one person to
wear a single safety belt. Never allow
infants or small children to ride in a passenger's
lap.
Make sure that the belt in the lap area sits low
across the hips and does not press against the
abdomen. The safety belt must not rest against
the throat, run across sharp edges, pass over
hard or fragile objects or be pinched. Fasten the
safety belt so that it is pulled taut across the lap
and shoulder, fitting the body snugly without
any twists. Otherwise the belt could slide over
the hips in the event of a frontal collision and
injure the abdomen. Avoid wearing bulky cloth-
ing and regularly pull the belt in the upper-body
area taut, otherwise its restraining effect could
be impaired.<
Safety belts, refer to page 32.
Seats
Note before adjusting
Never attempt to adjust your seat while
the vehicle is moving. The seat could
respond with unexpected movement, and the
ensuing loss of vehicle control could lead to an
accident.
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Adjustments
30
On the front passenger seat as well, do not
incline the backrest too far to the rear while the
vehicle is being driven, otherwise there is a dan-
ger in the event of an accident of sliding under
the safety belt, eliminating the protection nor-
mally provided by the belt.<
Comply with the instructions on head restraint
height on page 31 and on damaged safety belts
on page 32.
Seat adjustment
Observe the instructions on page 29 to
ensure the best possible personal protec-
tion.<
Longitudinal adjustment
Pull the lever, arrow 1, and slide the seat to the
desired position, arrows 2.
After releasing the lever, move the seat gently
forward or back to make sure it engages prop-
erly.
Height
Pull up or push down the lever repeatedly,
arrows 1, until the desired height is reached,
arrows 2.
Backrest
Pull the lever, arrow 1, and apply your weight to
the backrest or lift it off, as necessary, arrows 2.
Lumbar support*
You can also adjust the contour of the backrest
to obtain additional support in the lumbar
region.
The upper hips and spinal column receive sup-
plementary support to help you maintain a
relaxed, upright sitting position.
Turn the wheel to increase or decrease the cur-
vature.
Entry to the rear
Convenient entry
The convenient entry feature includes a
mechanical memory function for the longitudi-
nal adjustment and backrest angle.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
31
1. Pull up the lever on the seat backrest,
arrow 1.
The backrest folds forward.
2. Move the seat forward by pushing on the
backrest, arrow 2.
Previous position
1. Push the seat back into its previous position.
Do not fold the backrest up until the
seat is in its previous position. Other-
wise, the seat will engage in its current posi-
tion. In this case, adjust the longitudinal po-
sition manually, page 30.<
2. Fold the backrest back up to lock the seat.
When moving the seat backwards, ensure
that you do not cause personal injury or
property damage.
Before driving off, engage the front seats and
seat backrests. Otherwise there is a risk of acci-
dent due to unexpected movement.<
Head restraints
A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the
risk of neck injury in the event of an accident.
Adjust the head restraint in such a way
that its center is at approx. ear level. Oth-
erwise, there is an increased risk of injury in the
event of an accident. Only remove a head
restraint if no one will be sitting on the seat in
question. Reinstall the head restraint before
transporting anyone on that seat. Otherwise,
the passenger will be without protection from
the head restraint.<
Height adjustment
To raise: pull up.
To lower: press the button, arrow 1, and slide
the head restraint down.
Removing
Front
1. Pull up as far as it will go.
2. Fold the backrest forward slightly.
3. Press button 1 and pull the head restraint
out as far as it will go.
4. Additionally press button 2 and pull the
head restraint out completely.
5. Fold back the backrest.
Rear
1. Pull up as far as it will go.
2. Press button 1 and pull the head restraint
out completely.
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Adjustments
32
Seat heating*
Switching on
Press once for each temperature level.
Three LEDs indicate the highest temperature.
If you continue driving within the next 15 min-
utes, the seat heating is automatically activated
at the previously set temperature.
The temperature is lowered or the heating is
switched off entirely to save on battery power.
The LEDs stay lit.
Switching off
Press button longer.
Safety belts
Observe the instructions on page 29 to
ensure the best possible personal protec-
tion.<
Before every drive, make sure that all occupants
wear their safety belts. Airbags complement the
safety belt as an additional safety device, but
they do not represent a substitute.
Front and rear seats
Closing
Make sure you hear the lock engage in the belt
buckle.
The upper belt anchor is suitable for adults of
any stature as long as the seat is adjusted prop-
erly, page 29.
Opening
1. Grasp the belt firmly.
2. Press the red button in the buckle.
3. Guide the belt into its reel.
Seat belt reminder
Front seats
The indicator lamps come on and an
acoustic signal sounds. Check whether
the safety belt has been fastened cor-
rectly. The 'Fasten safety belts'
reminder is issued when the driver's safety belt
has not been fastened. The 'Fasten safety belts'
reminder is also activated at road speeds above
approx. 5 mph or 8 km/h if the front passenger's
safety belt has not been fastened, if objects are
placed on the front passenger seat, or if driver or
front passenger unfasten their safety belts.
Damage to safety belts
If the safety belts are damaged or stressed
in an accident: have the safety belt system
and its seat-belt tensioners replaced and the
belt anchors checked. Have this work carried out
only by a MINI Dealer or by a workshop that has
specially trained personnel working in accor-
dance with the specifications of the MINI manu-
facturer, otherwise correct operation of these
safety systems is not ensured.<
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
33
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors
The front passenger's mirror is more con-
vex than the driver's mirror. The objects
seen in the mirror are closer than they appear.
Do not gauge your distance from traffic behind
you on the basis of what you see in the mirror;
otherwise there is an increased risk of an acci-
dent.<
1 Adjusting the left or right exterior mirror
2 Folding mirrors in and out
*
Manual adjustment
The mirrors can also be adjusted manually: press
the edge of the glass.
Folding mirrors in and out*
Turn the knob beyond the pressure point in
direction 2. The mirrors can be folded in at road
speeds up to approx. 20 mph/30 km/h.
This can be beneficial in narrow streets, for
example, or for moving mirrors that were folded
in by hand back out into their correct positions.
Automatic heating*
At outside temperatures below a certain limit,
both exterior mirrors are automatically heated
while the engine is running or the ignition
switched on.
Interior rearview mirror
To reduce glare from vehicles behind you when
you are driving at night:
Turn the knob.
Interior mirror, automatic dimming*
The automatic dimming feature of the interior
rearview mirror
*
is controlled by two photo cells
in the mirror. One photo cell is in the mirror
frame, arrow; the other is on the back of the mir-
ror.
In order to ensure that the system functions cor-
rectly, keep the photo cells clean, do not cover
the area between the interior rearview mirror
and windshield, and do not affix adhesive labels
or stickers of any kind to the windshield directly
in front of the mirror.
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Adjustments
34
Steering wheel
Adjustments
Do not adjust the steering wheel position
while the car is in motion, otherwise there
is a risk of accident due to an unexpected move-
ment.<
1. Fold the lever down.
2. Move the steering wheel to the preferred
distance and angle to suit your seated posi-
tion.
3. Swing the lever back up.
Do not use force to swing the lever
back up, otherwise the mechanism
will be damaged.<
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
35
Transporting children safely
The right place for
children
Do not leave children unattended in the
vehicle, otherwise they could endanger
themselves and/or other persons by opening the
doors, for example.<
Children should always sit in the rear
Accident research has shown that the safest
place for children is on the rear seat.
Only transport children under the age of
13 or smaller than 5 ft/150 cm in the rear
in a child-restraint system suitable for their age,
weight and size. Otherwise there is an increased
risk of injury in the event of an accident.<
Children 13 years of age or older must be buck-
led in with a safety belt as soon as there no
longer is any child-restraint system that is
appropriate for their age, size and weight.
Only install child seats in the rear when the
rear seat backrest is folded all the way
back and engaged. Otherwise there will be an
increased risk of injury in the event of an acci-
dent.<
Exception for front passenger seat
Front passenger airbags
Should it be necessary to use a child-
restraint system on the front passenger
seat, the front and side airbags must be deacti-
vated. Otherwise, there is an increased risk of
injury to the child if the airbags deploy, even if
the child is seated in a child-restraint system.<
For more information on automatic deactivation
of the front passenger airbags, refer to page 65.
Child-restraint systems,
installation
Observe the child-restraint system manu-
facturer's instructions when selecting,
installing and using child-restraint systems. Other-
wise the protective effect may be diminished.<
On the front passenger seat
After installing a child-restraint system on
the front passenger seat, make sure that
the front and side airbags for the front passen-
ger are deactivated, otherwise there is an
increased risk of injury if the airbags deploy.<
Child seat security
All rear safety belts and the safety belt for the front
passenger can be prevented from being pulled out
in order to secure child-restraint systems.
To lock the safety belt
1. Secure the child-restraint system with the
belt.
2. Pull the belt strap all the way out.
3. Allow the belt strap to retract and pull it taut
against the child-restraint system.
The safety belt is locked.
To unlock the safety belt
1. Open the belt buckle
2. Remove the child-restraint system.
3. Allow the safety belt strap to retract all the
way.
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Transporting children safely
36
LATCH child-restraint
fixing system
LATCH: Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren.
To install and use the LATCH child-
restraint system, follow the operating and
safety instructions provided by the manufac-
turer of the system, otherwise the protective
function of the seat may be compromised.<
Anchor points for LATCH anchors
Before installing the child's seat, pull the belt out
of the area for the child-restraint fixing system.
The anchor points for the lower LATCH anchors
are located behind the labeled protective caps.
Make sure that the two LATCH anchors are
properly engaged and that the child-
restraint system rests firmly against the seat
backrest, otherwise the protective function of
the seat may be compromised.<
Child-restraint system with tether strap
Use the tether strap anchors to secure
child-restraint systems only, otherwise the
anchors could be damaged.<
By way of example, the illustration shows the
cargo bay in the MINI.
There are two additional anchors for child-
restraint systems with tether straps, arrows.
When the vehicle is equipped with a level load
floor
*
, the anchors are covered. Their positions
are labeled.
Placement of the tether strap
1 Direction of travel
2 Head restraint
3 Tether strap hook
4 Cargo bay floor
5 Anchor
6 Seat backrest
7 Tether strap of the child-restraint system
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
37
Make sure the upper retaining strap does
not run over sharp edges and is not
twisted as it passes to the top anchor. Otherwise
the strap will not properly secure the child-
restraint system in the event of an accident.<
1. Push the head restraint upward.
2. Guide the tether strap between the head
restraint holders.
3. Attach the tether strap to the anchor using
the hook.
4. Push the head restraint into its lowermost
position.
5. Pull the retaining strap tight.
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Driving
38
Driving
Ignition lock
Inserting the key into the ignition lock
Insert the key all the way into the ignition lock.
Radio readiness
Individual electrical consumers can operate.
Removing the key from the ignition lock
Press in the key briefly. It is ejected slightly.
At the same time:
> The ignition is switched off if it was on
beforehand.
Automatic transmission
You cannot take out the key unless the selector
lever is in the P position: interlock.
Start/stop button
Press the start/stop button to switch radio readi-
ness or the ignition on and off. Do not depress
the brake or clutch while doing so.
When you press the start/stop button and
depress the clutch if the car has manual
transmission or the brake if the car has auto-
matic transmission, the engine starts.<
Radio readiness
Individual electrical consumers can operate. The
time and outside temperature are displayed in
the tachometer.
Radio readiness is switched off automatically:
> When the key is removed from the ignition
lock
> When using convenient access
*
by pushing
the button on the door handle or the
button on the remote control, refer to Lock-
ing on page 26
Ignition on
Most indicator and warning lamps in indicator
area 1, page 13, light up for varying lengths of
time.
When the engine is off, switch off the igni-
tion and any unnecessary electrical con-
sumers in order to preserve the battery.<
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
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Radio readiness and ignition off
All indicator and warning lamps in the displays
go out.
The ignition automatically turns off
*
when the
driver's door is opened. Pressing the start/stop
button again switches the ignition back on.
The ignition is not switched off in situations such
as the following:
> The clutch or brake is depressed
> The low beams are switched on
Starting the engine
Do not allow the engine to run in enclosed
spaces; otherwise inhalation of the noxious
exhaust gases can lead to unconsciousness and
death. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide,
an odorless and colorless, but highly toxic gas.
Never leave an unattended vehicle with the
engine running, otherwise such a vehicle repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.
Before leaving the car while the engine is running,
place the transmission in neutral or move the
selector lever to position P and forcefully apply the
parking brake to prevent the car from moving.<
Avoid frequent starting in quick succes-
sion or repeated start attempts in which
the engine does not start. Otherwise, the fuel is
not burned or inadequately burned and there is
a danger of overheating and damaging the cat-
alytic converter.<
Do not let the engine warm up with the vehicle
at a standstill. Move off immediately at a moder-
ate engine speed.
When starting the engine, do not depress the
accelerator pedal.
Manual transmission
Key in ignition lock or inside vehicle with conve-
nient access, refer to page 25.
1. Depress the brake.
2. Depress the clutch.
3. Press the start/stop button.
Automatic transmission
Key in ignition lock or inside vehicle with conve-
nient access, refer to page 25.
1. Depress the brake.
2. Move the selector lever to position P.
3. Press the start/stop button.
The starter operates automatically for a certain
time, and stops automatically as soon as the
engine has started.
switching off THE Engine
Always take the key with you when you
leave the vehicle.
When parking, apply the parking brake force-
fully, otherwise the vehicle could begin to roll.<
Manual transmission
1. With the car at a standstill, press the start/
stop button.
2. Shift into first gear or reverse.
3. Forcefully apply the parking brake.
Automatic transmission
1. With the car at a standstill, move the selector
lever to position P.
2. Press the start/stop button.
3. Forcefully apply the parking brake.
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Driving
40
Parking brake
The parking brake is primarily intended to pre-
vent the vehicle from rolling while parked; it
brakes the rear wheels.
Applying
The lever locks in position automatically.
Releasing
Pull slightly upwards, press the button and lower
the lever.
In exceptional cases, if the parking brake
has to be used to slow or stop the car, do
not pull the lever up too hard. In doing so, con-
tinuously press the button of the parking brake
lever.
Otherwise, excessive force could lead to over-
braking and loss of traction, i.e. fishtailing, at the
rear axle.<
Manual transmission
When shifting into 5th or 6th gear, press
the gearshift lever to the right. Otherwise
the engine could be damaged if you inadvert-
ently shift into 3rd or 4th gear.<
Reverse gear
Select this only when the vehicle is stationary.
When the gearshift lever is pressed to the left, a
slight resistance has to be overcome.
Automatic transmission*
with Steptronic
In addition to the fully automatic mode, you can
shift gears manually using Steptronic, page 41.
Parking the vehicle
To prevent the vehicle from rolling, always
select position P and apply the parking
brake before leaving the vehicle with the engine
running.<
Removing the key
1. Move the selector lever to position P.
2. Switch off the engine.
3. Remove the key.
Selector lever positions
P R N D M/S + –
Displays in the tachometer
P R N D DS M1 to M6
The selector lever position is displayed, or the
current gear in the manual mode.
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Changing selector lever positions
> The selector lever can only be moved out of
position P if the ignition is switched on or the
engine is running: interlock.
> Before moving the lever away from P or N
with the vehicle stationary, first depress the
brake; otherwise the selector lever will
refuse to move: shiftlock.
To prevent the vehicle from creeping
after you select a driving position, de-
press the brake until you are ready to start.<
A lock prevents accidental shifting into selector
lever positions R and P.
Overriding the selector lever lock
Press the button on the front of the selector
lever, arrow.
P Park
Select this only when the vehicle is stationary.
The transmission locks to prevent the drive
wheels from turning.
R Reverse
Select this only when the vehicle is stationary.
N Neutral
Select this when you are in a car wash, for exam-
ple. The vehicle can roll.
D Drive, automatic position
Position for normal vehicle operation. All for-
ward gears are selected automatically.
Under normal operation conditions, fuel con-
sumption is lowest when you drive in position D.
Kick-down
Kick-down enables you to achieve maximum
performance.
Depress the accelerator pedal beyond the full-
throttle resistance point.
Sport program and manual operation
M/S
Move the selector lever from position D to the
left into the M/S shifting slot:
The Sport program is activated and DS is dis-
played.
Shifting with the selector lever
Push the selector lever forward or pull it back to
activate manual operation. Steptronic shifts the
gear.
> Pull the selector lever in the + direction.
Transmission shifts up.
> Push the selector lever in the – direction.
Transmission shifts down.
The tachometer displays M1 to M6.
To use the automatic mode again, move the
selector lever to the right into position D.
Upshifts and downshifts are executed only when
they will result in a plausible combination of
engine and vehicle speed; thus, for example, a
downshift that would cause the engine to over-
rev will not be executed by the system. The
selected gear is displayed briefly, followed by
the actual gear.
Shifting on the steering wheel
With the selector lever in position D, automatic
drive, you can shift gears using the shift paddles
on the steering wheel. The transmission auto-
matically switches to manual mode.
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Driving
42
If you do not shift gears with the shift paddles or
accelerate for a certain amount of time, the
transmission automatically returns to D, auto-
matic drive.
> Pull one of the shift paddles.
Transmission shifts up.
> Push one of the shift paddles.
Transmission shifts down.
M1 to M6 is displayed in the gear indicator.
Overriding the selector lever lock
Should the selector lever refuse to move out of
position P although the button on the selector
lever is pressed, the selector lever lock can be
overridden:
1. Unclip the sleeve of the selector lever.
2. Pull the sleeve up over the selector lever
until the sleeve is inside out. Disconnect the
cable connector if necessary.
3. Take the hub cover remover 1 out of the
onboard tool kit and insert it in the loop on
the front passenger side.
4. Pull the loop up.
5. Move the selector lever into the desired
position by pressing the button on the front
of the selector lever.
Turn signals/
headlamp flasher
1 Turn signal indicator
2 Headlamp flasher
Using turn signals
Press the lever beyond the resistance point.
To turn off manually, press the lever to the resis-
tance point.
Unusually rapid flashing of the indicator
lamp indicates that an indicator bulb has
failed.<
Indicating a turn briefly
Press the lever as far as the resistance point for
as long as you wish to indicate a turn.
Triple turn signal activation
Press the lever as far as the resistance point.
You can set whether the turn signal is to flash
once or three times.
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 38.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
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3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
display shows the illustrated symbol, arrow.
7. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
8. Briefly press the button to select:
>
Brief indication of a turn.
>
Triple turn signal.
9. Press and hold the button until the display
changes. The setting is stored.
Wiper system
1 Switching on wipers
2 Switching off wipers or brief wipe
3 Activating/deactivating intermittent mode
or rain sensor
*
4 Cleaning windshield and headlamps
*
Switching on wipers
Press the lever upward, arrow 1.
The lever automatically returns to its initial posi-
tion when released.
Normal wiper speed
Press once.
The system switches to intermittent operation
when the vehicle is stationary.
Fast wiper speed
Press twice or press beyond the resistance point.
The system switches to normal speed when the
vehicle is stationary.
Intermittent wipe or rain sensor*
If the car is not equipped with a rain sensor, the
intermittent-wipe time is preset.
If the car is equipped with a rain sensor, the time
between wipes is controlled automatically and
depends on the intensity of the rainfall. The rain
sensor is mounted on the windshield, directly in
front of the interior rearview mirror.
Activating intermittent wipe or rain
sensor
Press button, arrow 3.
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Driving
44
Deactivate the rain sensor before entering
an automatic car wash. Failure to do so
could result in damage caused by undesired
wiper activation.<
Adjusting the sensitivity of the rain
sensor
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 38.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Press the button to select the desired sensi-
tivity.
7. Wait, or press and hold the button until the
display changes.
The settings are stored.
Deactivating intermittent wipe or rain
sensor
Press the button again, arrow 3.
Brief wipe
Press the lever downward once, arrow 2.
Cleaning windshield and headlamps*
Pull the lever, arrow 4.
Washer fluid is sprayed onto the windshield and
the wipers are operated briefly.
When the vehicle lighting system is switched on,
the headlamps are cleaned at regular and
appropriate intervals.
In cars equipped with an alarm system, the
headlamps cannot be cleaned when the bonnet
is open.
Do not use the washers when the washer
fluid reservoir is empty, otherwise you will
damage the washer pump.
Only use the washers if the bonnet has been
completely closed, otherwise the headlamp
washer system
*
may be damaged. Do not use
the washers if there is any danger that the fluid
will freeze on the windshield. If you do, your
vision could be obscured. For this reason, use
antifreeze.<
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Window washer nozzles
The window washer nozzles are heated auto-
matically
*
while the engine is running or the
ignition is switched on.
Rear window wiper
0 Rear wipers parked
1 To switch on intermittent wipe :
Turn the cap to level 1.
Operation is continuous in reverse gear.
Cleaning the rear window
2 To clean the rear window during intermit-
tent wipe :
Turn the cap further to level 2 and hold it
there.
3 To clean the rear window when wipers are
parked :
Turn the cap to level 3 and hold it there.
Do not use the washers when the washer
fluid reservoir is empty, otherwise you will
damage the washer pump.<
Washer fluid
Washer fluid antifreeze is flammable.
Therefore, keep it away from ignition
sources, store it only in the closed original con-
tainer and keep it out of reach of children, oth-
erwise there is a risk of personal injury. Comply
with the instructions on the container.<
Washer fluid reservoir
Only refill washer fluid that contains anti-
freeze when the engine is cool, to avoid
contact with hot engine parts. Otherwise, fluid
spills constitute a fire hazard and a risk to per-
sonal safety.<
Fill with water and, if required, with a washer
antifreeze, according to manufacturer's recom-
mendations.
Mix the water and antifreeze before filling
the washer fluid reservoir to make sure
the correct concentration is maintained.<
Capacity
Approx. 2.6 US quarts/2.5 liters.
With headlamp washer system:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts/4.5 liters.
Cruise control*
The concept
Cruise control is available at vehicle speeds of at
least approx. 20 mph or 30 km/h. The car then
stores and maintains the speed that you specify
using the button on the steering wheel.
Do not use cruise control when driving at
constant speed is prevented by adverse
conditions, e.g. winding roads, dense traffic or
poor road conditions due to, e.g., snow, rain, ice
or loose surfaces. Otherwise you could lose con-
trol of the vehicle and cause an accident as a
result.<
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Driving
46
Activating
1 Resuming cruise control
2 Activating/deactivating cruise control
3 Maintaining, storing and increasing speed
4 Maintaining, storing and decreasing speed
Indicator lamp in the speedometer lights up. The
cruise control system is ready and can be acti-
vated.
Activating/deactivating cruise control
Press button 2.
In addition, the system is automatically deacti-
vated:
> When the brakes are applied
> When the clutch is depressed
> When the automatic transmission is in selec-
tion lever position N
> When the driving stability control system is
active
Cruise control is not deactivated by depressing
the accelerator pedal. Once the accelerator
pedal is released, the stored speed is achieved
again and maintained.
The stored speed is cleared when the ignition is
switched off.
Maintaining current speed
Press button 3.
The system maintains and stores the current
vehicle speed.
If, on a downhill grade, the engine braking effect
is not sufficient, the controlled speed may be
exceeded. On uphill grades vehicle speed may
drop if the engine output is insufficient.
Increasing speed
Press button 3 repeatedly until the desired
speed is reached. Every time you press the but-
ton, the speed increases by approx. 1 mph or
2km/h.
Accelerating using the button
Press and hold button 3.
The vehicle accelerates without pressure on the
accelerator pedal. After the button is released,
the driving speed is maintained and stored.
Decreasing speed
Press button 4 repeatedly until the desired
speed is reached.
The functions here are the same as for increas-
ing the speed or accelerating, except that the
speed will be decreased.
Resuming a speed stored beforehand
Press button 1.
The last speed stored is achieved again and
maintained.
The stored speed is cleared when the ignition is
switched off.
Display in tachometer*
Selected speed is displayed briefly.
If --- mph or --- km/h is displayed briefly
in the tachometer, the conditions neces-
sary for operation may not be fulfilled.<
Malfunction
The warning lamp in the tachometer
lights up if the system fails.
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Everything under control
48
Everything under control
Odometer, outside
temperature display,
clock
1 Outside temperature display and clock or
current speed
2 Odometer and trip odometer
3 Resetting the trip odometer
Units of measure
Select the respective units of measure, miles or
km for the odometer as well as 7 or 6 for the
outside temperature, page 51.
Outside temperature display, time
Setting the time, refer to page 54.
Outside temperature warning
When the displayed temperature sinks to
approx. +377/+36, a signal sounds and a
warning lamp lights up. There is an increased
risk of black ice.
Black ice can also form at temperatures
above +377/+36. You should therefore
drive carefully on bridges and shaded roads, for
example, otherwise there is an increased risk of
an accident.<
Current vehicle speed
To have the current speed shown in the upper
display otherwise serving for the outside tem-
perature display and clock.
1. Press the button in the turn indicator lever
repeatedly until the current speed appears
in the lower display.
2. Wait for the speed display to automatically
move to the upper display.
The outside temperature then appears in the
lower display.
Odometer and trip odometer
Resetting the trip odometer
With the ignition switched on, press knob 3 in
the tachometer.
When the vehicle is parked
To display the time, outside temperature and
odometer briefly after the key is removed from
the ignition lock:
Press knob 3 in the tachometer.
Tachometer
Never operate the engine with the needle in the
red overspeed zone of the gauge. In this range,
the fuel supply is interrupted to protect the
engine.
Coolant temperature
A warning lamp will come on if the coolant, and
therefore the engine, becomes too hot.
Check coolant level, refer to page 107.
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Fuel gauge
Fuel tank capacity
You can find information on refueling on
page 94.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies for a longer period,
when you are driving in mountainous areas, for
example, the indicator may fluctuate slightly.
MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S
Approx. 13.2 US gallons/50 liters.
Reserve
Once the fuel level has fallen to the reserve zone
of approx. 2.1 gallons/8 liters, the remaining
indicator lamps change from orange to red,
arrow. The tachometer
displays the remaining
cruising range. An indicator lamp comes on
when the remaining range is less than approx.
30 miles/50 km.
If the range displayed is less than
30 miles/50 km, be sure to refuel; other-
wise engine functions are not guaranteed and
damage could occur.<
Computer*
Displays in tachometer
Press the button in the turn indicator lever
repeatedly to call up various items of informa-
tion.
The following items of information are displayed
in the order listed:
> Cruising range
> Average fuel consumption
> Current fuel consumption
> Average speed
> Current vehicle speed
To set the corresponding units of measure, refer
to Formats and units of measure on page 51.
Cruising range
Displays the estimated cruising range available
with the remaining fuel. The range is calculated
on the basis of the way the car has been driven
over the last 18 miles/30 km and the amount of
fuel currently in the tank.
If the range displayed is less than
30 miles/50 km, be sure to refuel; other-
wise engine functions are not guaranteed and
damage could occur.<
Average fuel consumption
Calculated for the time the engine has been run-
ning.
To reset average fuel consumption: press the
button in the turn indicator lever for approx.
2seconds.
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Everything under control
50
Current fuel consumption
Displays the current fuel consumption to allow
you to see whether your current driving style is
conducive to fuel economy with minimum
exhaust emissions.
Average speed
Periods with the vehicle parked and the engine
switched off are not included in the calculations
of average speed.
To reset average speed: press the button in the
turn indicator lever for approx. 2 seconds.
Current vehicle speed
To have the current speed shown in the upper
display otherwise serving for the outside tem-
perature display and clock.
1. Press the button in the turn indicator lever
repeatedly until the current speed appears
in the lower display.
2. Wait for the speed display to automatically
move to the upper display.
The outside temperature then appears in the
lower display of the computer.
Settings and information
Operating principle
Certain settings and information are only avail-
able when the ignition is switched on, the vehi-
cle is at a standstill and the doors are closed.
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1 Button for:
> Selecting display
> Setting values
> Confirming selected display or set values
> Calling up computer information 49
2 Calling up Check Control 55
3 Displaying vehicle check 56
4 Initializing the Flat Tire Monitor 60
Resetting the Tire Pressure Monitor 62
5 Setting formats and units of measure, reset-
ting to factory settings 52
6 Adjusting settings
> Confirmation signals when locking and
unlocking the vehicle 20
> Response during unlocking
procedure 19
> Automatic locking 22
> Pathway lighting 67
> Daytime running lamps 68
> Triple turn signal activation 42
7 Setting the time 54
8 Setting the date 55
9 Exiting the menu
Exiting displays
1. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "HOME" is displayed.
2. Press the button for a longer period.
The display again shows the outside tempera-
ture and the time.
Displays are also exited if no entries are made
for approx. 8 seconds.
Next setting or item of information
1. Within a setting or item of information,
briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "NEXT" is displayed.
2. Press the button for a longer period.
The display changes directly to the next setting
or item of information.
Formats and units of
measure
To set the formats and units of measure. The set-
tings are stored for the remote control currently
in use, refer also to Personal Profile on page 18.
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Everything under control
52
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 38.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is displayed.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
display shows the illustrated symbol, arrow.
> Fuel consumption: l/100 km, mpg,
km/l
*
> Distance covered: mls, km
> Time: 12h, 24h mode
> Date: day.month dd.mm,
month/day mm/dd
> Temperature: 7, 6
7. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
8. Press the button briefly to change the for-
mat or unit of measure.
9. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
The settings are stored.
Resetting to factory settings
The settings for formats and units of measure
can be reset to the factory settings. The settings
are stored for the remote control currently in
use, refer also to Personal Profile on page 18.
1. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
2. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
3. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
4. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
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5. Briefly press the button repeatedly until
"RESET" is displayed.
6. Press and hold the button until the display
changes to the first setting.
The settings are reset.
Service requirements
The remaining driving distance and the date of
the next scheduled service are briefly displayed
immediately after you start the engine or switch
on the ignition.
The extent of service work required can be
read out from the remote control by your
MINI Dealer.<
Displaying vehicle check
For certain maintenance operations, you can
view the respective distance remaining or due
date individually in the tachometer.
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 38.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
corresponding symbol and "SERVICE-INFO"
are displayed.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Briefly press the button to display the indi-
vidual service items, refer to the following
information.
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54
Possible displays
1 Button for selecting information
2 Engine oil
3 Front brakes
4 Rear brakes
5 Vehicle check
6 Roadworthiness test
7 Brake fluid
8 Exit display 51
9 Next setting or item of information 51
More information on the MINI Maintenance Sys-
tem can be found on page 109.
Clock
Setting the time
To set the 12h/24h mode, refer to Formats and
units of measure on page 51.
1. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is displayed.
2. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
3. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
4. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
5. Press the button to set the hours.
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6. Wait for the display to change to minutes.
7. Press the button to set the minutes.
8. Wait for the display to change.
The settings are stored.
Date
Setting the date
To set the dd/mm or mm/dd date format, refer
to Formats and units of measure on page 51.
1. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
2. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
3. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
4. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
5. Press the button to set the day of the month.
6. Wait for the display to change to month.
7. Set the month and year in the same way.
8. Wait for the display to change.
The settings are stored.
Check Control
The concept
The Check Control monitors vehicle functions
and alerts you to any malfunctions in the sys-
tems monitored. Check Control messages
involve indicator or warning lamps in the dis-
plays and, in some circumstances, an acoustic
signal. To adjust the volume of the signal, refer
to the Owner's Manual for Radio.
Indicator and warning lamps can light up in var-
ious combinations and colors in the indicator
areas 1 and 2.
What to do in case of a malfunction
The meaning of each lamp in the event of a mal-
function and tips on how to respond are listed
starting on page 129.
Hiding Check Control messages
Press the button in the turn indicator lever.
Some Check Control messages are displayed
until the malfunctions have been rectified. They
cannot be hidden. If several malfunctions occur
at the same time, they are displayed in succes-
sion.
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Everything under control
56
Other Check Control messages are automatically
hidden after approx. 20 seconds, but remain
stored.
This symbol indicates that Check Control
messages have been stored. Check Control mes-
sages can be viewed whenever it is convenient.
Viewing stored Check Control messages
Stored Check Control messages can only be dis-
played if the driver's door is closed.
1. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
2. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
3. Press the button repeatedly until the display
shows the corresponding symbol and
"CHECK INFO".
4. Hold the button down.
"CHECK OK" appears if there are no Check
Control messages.
If a Check Control message has been stored,
the corresponding message is displayed.
5. Briefly press the button to check for other
messages.
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57
Technology for driving comfort
and safety
Park Distance Control
PDC*
The concept
PDC assists you with parking backwards. Acous-
tic signals warn you of the presence of an object
behind the vehicle. To measure the distance,
there are four ultrasonic sensors in either
bumper.
However, an acoustic warning does not
sound until an object is approx. 24 in/
60 cm from the corner sensors, or approx. 5 ft/
1.50 m from the center sensors. PDC is a parking
aid that can indicate objects when they are
approached slowly, as is usually the case when
parking. Avoid approaching an object at high
speed, otherwise physical circumstances may
lead to the system warning being issued too
late.<
Automatic mode
With the engine running or the ignition switched
on, the system is activated automatically after
approx. 1 second when you engage reverse gear
or move the automatic transmission selector
lever to position R. Wait this short period before
driving.
Acoustic signals
As the distance between vehicle and object
decreases, the intervals between the tones
become shorter. If the distance to the nearest
object falls to below roughly 1 ft/30 cm, then a
continuous tone sounds.
If the distance remains constant, e.g. when driv-
ing parallel to a wall, the acoustic signal stops
after approx. 3 seconds.
Adjustments
The volume of the acoustic signals can be
adjusted, refer to the Owner's Manual for Radio.
Malfunction
Indicator lamp comes on: PDC is mal-
functioning. Have the system checked.
To avoid this problem, keep the sensors
clean and free of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they will continue to operate effectively.
When using a high-pressure cleaner, do not direct
the jet toward the sensors for lengthy periods and
only spray from a distance of at least 4 in/10 cm.
System limitations
Even with PDC, final responsibility for esti-
mating the distance between the vehicle
and any obstructions always remains with the
driver. Sensors, too, have blind spots in which
objects cannot be detected. Moreover, ultra-
sonic detection can reach its physical limits with
objects such as trailer tow bars and couplings,
thin and wedge-shaped objects, etc. Low
objects already indicated, such as curbs, may
enter the sensors' blind spots before or after a
continuous audible signal is given. Higher, pro-
truding objects, such as wall ledges, may not be
detectable. Therefore, always drive cautiously,
otherwise there is a risk of personal injury or
property damage. Loud sound sources outside
or inside the car can drown out the PDC signal.<
Driving stability control
systems
Your MINI has a number of systems that help to
maintain the vehicle's stability even in adverse
driving conditions.
The laws of physics cannot be repealed,
even with driving stability control systems.
An appropriate driving style always remains the
responsibility of the driver. Therefore do not
reduce the additional safety margin by engaging
in hazardous driving thereby running the risk of
an accident.<
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Technology for driving comfort and safety
58
Antilock Brake System ABS
ABS prevents locking of the wheels during brak-
ing. Safe steering response is maintained even
during full braking. Active safety is thus
increased.
Braking safely, refer to page 85.
Among others, ABS includes the following func-
tions:
> Cornering Brake Control CBC
> Electronic brake-force distribution EBV
> Brake Assist
Cornering Brake Control CBC
Driving stability and steering characteristics are
further enhanced while braking in turns or dur-
ing a lane change.
Electronic brake-force distribution EBV
The system controls the brake pressure in the
rear wheels to ensure stable braking behavior.
Brake Assist
Rapidly depressing the brake causes this system
to automatically develop maximum braking
force. Thus, the system helps keep braking dis-
tance to a minimum. At the same time, all the
benefits provided by ABS are exploited.
Do not reduce the pressure on the brake for the
duration of the full braking application.
Dynamic Stability Control DSC
DSC prevents the driving wheels from losing
traction when you pull away from rest or accel-
erate. The system also recognizes unstable driv-
ing conditions, for example if the rear of the car
is about to swerve or if momentum is acting at
an angle past the front wheels. In these cases,
DSC helps the vehicle maintain a safe course
within physical limits by reducing engine output
and through braking actions at the individual
wheels.
DSC also encompasses the following functions:
> Antilock Brake System ABS
> Electronic brake-force distribution EBV
> Brake Assist
> Cornering Brake Control CBC
> Hill Start Assist
Deactivating DSC
Press the button repeatedly until the DSC indica-
tor lamps come on. DSC is deactivated. Stabiliz-
ing and propulsion promoting actions are no
longer executed.
When driving with snow chains or to 'rock free'
in snow, it can be helpful to switch off DSC for a
brief period.
To increase vehicle stability, activate DSC again
as soon as possible.
Activating DSC
Press the button again: the DSC indicator lamps
go out.
For better control
If the indicator lamp flashes:
The DSC controls the driving and
breaking forces.
If the indicator lamps are on:
DSC is deactivated.
Dynamic Traction Control DTC*
DTC is a type of DSC that is propulsion optimized
for special road conditions such as uncleared
snowy roads. The system ensures maximum
propulsion though with restricted driving stabil-
ity. You therefore need to drive with suitable
caution.
In the following exceptional situations, it can be
useful to briefly activate DTC:
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
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> when driving on snow-covered inclines, in
slush, or on uncleared snowy roads
> when rocking the vehicle free, driving out of
deep snow or on loose surfaces
> when driving with snow chains
Activating DTC
Press the button: the DTC indicator lamps come
on.
For better control
If the indicator lamp flashes:
DTC controls the driving and breaking
forces.
If the indicator lamps are on:
DTC is activated.
Deactivating DTC
Press the button again: the DSC indicator lamps
go out.
Deactivating both DTC and DSC
Press the button for at least 3 seconds: the DSC
indicator lamps come on. The dynamic traction
control (DTC) and dynamic stability control (DSC)
are both deactivated. There will be no more sta-
bilizing interventions.
Interventions (differential lock) in braking occur
to improve propulsion when drive wheels are
rotating unevenly, even when the DSC is deacti-
vated.
Activating DSC
Press the button again: the indicator lamps go
out.
Hill Start Assist*
Hill Start Assist aids you in comfortably driving
off on inclines. It is not necessary to use the
parking brake for this.
1. Hold the MINI with the brake.
2. Release the brake and immediately drive
off.
Hill Start Assist holds the car in place for approx.
2 seconds after the brake is released.
Depending on the load and gradient, the
vehicle can roll backward slightly during
this period. After you release the brake, immedi-
ately start driving since the hill start assist only
holds the vehicle for about 2 seconds, and it will
start to roll backwards.<
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Technology for driving comfort and safety
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Sport button*
Pressing the button causes your MINI to respond
even more sportily.
> Engine responds more spontaneously to
movements of the accelerator.
> Steering response is more direct.
With automatic transmission:
> More rapid gear shifting in Sport program.
Activating the system
Press the SPORT button.
The LED lights up.
SPORT is briefly displayed in the tachometer.
Deactivating the system
> Press the SPORT button again.
> Switch off the engine.
Flat Tire Monitor FTM
The concept
The Flat Tire Monitor detects pressure loss in a
tire by comparing the rotating speeds of the
individual tires while moving.
If a tire loses pressure, its rolling circumference
changes, and this in turn alters the speed of
rotation. This change is detected and is reported
as a flat tire.
Functional requirement
In order to assure the reliable reporting of a flat
tire, the system must be initialized for the cor-
rect tire inflation pressure.
Each time you correct the pressure in a
tire, or change a wheel or tire, the system
must be reinitialized.<
System limitations
The Flat Tire Monitor is unable to warn the driver
of sudden, severe tire damage caused by exter-
nal factors, nor can it identify the gradual loss of
pressure that will inevitably occur in all four tires
over a lengthy period of time.
In the following situations, the system could be
delayed or malfunction:
> System has not been initialized
> Driving on snowy or slippery road surface
> Performance-oriented style of driving: slip in
the drive wheels, high lateral acceleration
> Snow chains are attached
When the vehicle is driven with a space-saver
spare tire
*
, page 122, the Flat Tire Monitor can-
not function.
Initializing the system
The initialization is completed during driv-
ing, which can be interrupted at any time.
When driving resumes, the initialization is con-
tinued automatically.
Do not initialize the system if you are driving
with snow chains or a space-saver spare tire
*
.<
1. Start the engine, but do not start driving.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
61
4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
corresponding symbol and "RESET" are dis-
played.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Start driving.
Initialization is completed while the car is on
the move, without any feedback.
Indication of a flat tire
The warning lamps come on in yellow
and red. An acoustic signal also sounds.
There is a flat tire or substantial loss of
tire pressure.
1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle with cau-
tion. Avoid sudden braking and steering
maneuvers.
2. Check whether your vehicle is equipped
with normal tires or Run-Flat Tires.
The symbol identifying Run-Flat Tires
is a circle with the letters RSC on the
sidewall, refer to Run-Flat Tires, page 103.<
Normal tires
1. Determine which tire is damaged.
If this cannot be determined, contact
your MINI Dealer.<
2. Repair the flat tire, refer to page 119, or
change the damaged tire, refer to page 121.
Run-Flat Tires*
1. Cautiously reduce speed to below 50 mph
or 80 km/h. Avoid sudden braking and
steering maneuvers. Do not exceed a speed
of 50 mph or 80 km/h.
Do not continue driving if the vehicle is
not equipped with Run-Flat Tires,
page 103, otherwise a serious accident
could result.<
2. At the next opportunity, check the air pres-
sure in all four tires.
If all four tires are inflated to the cor-
rect pressures, the Flat Tire Monitor
might not have been initialized. The system
must then be initialized.<
3. In the event of complete tire pressure loss,
0 psi/0 kPa, you can estimate the possible
distance for continued driving on the basis
of the following guidelines:
> With a light load:
1 to 2 persons without luggage:
approx. 155 miles/250 km
> With a medium load:
2 persons, cargo bay full, or 4 persons
without luggage:
approx. 90 miles/150 km
> With a full load:
4 persons, load compartment full:
approx. 30 miles/50 km
Drive cautiously and do not exceed a
speed of 50 mph or 80 km/h, otherwise an
accident may occur. In the event of pressure
loss, vehicle handling changes. This includes
reduced tracking stability in braking, extended
braking distance and altered natural steering
characteristics. If unusual vibration or loud
noises occur during the journey, this may be an
indication that the damaged tire has finally
failed. Reduce the vehicle speed and stop as
soon as possible. Otherwise, sections of the tire
may come loose and cause accidents. Do not
continue driving and contact your MINI Dealer.<
Malfunction
The warning lamps light up in yellow.
There is a malfunction in the Flat Tire
Monitor or the system has failed. Have
the system checked as soon as possible.
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Technology for driving comfort and safety
62
Tire Pressure Monitor
TPM*
The concept
TPM checks the inflation pressures of the four
mounted tires. The system notifies you if there is
a significant loss of pressure in one or more tires.
Functional requirement
In order to assure the reliable reporting of a flat
tire, the system must be reset while all tire infla-
tion pressures are correct.
Always use wheels with TPM electronics. Other-
wise, the system may malfunction.
Each time a tire inflation pressure has
been corrected or a wheel or tire has been
changed, reset the system.<
System limitations
TPM cannot warn you in advance of sud-
den severe tire damage caused by outside
influences.<
The system does not work correctly if it has not
been reset; for example, a flat tire may be indi-
cated even though the tire inflation pressures
are correct.
The system is inactive and cannot indicate a flat
tire if a wheel without TPM electronics, such as a
compact spare wheel
*
, has been mounted, or if
TPM is temporarily malfunctioning due to other
systems or devices using the same radio fre-
quency.
Resetting the system
Each time a tire inflation pressure has
been corrected or a wheel or tire has been
changed, reset the system.<
Using the button in the turn indicator lever
1. Start the engine, but do not start driving.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is displayed.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
4. Repeatedly press the button briefly until the
symbol for Tire Pressure Monitor and
"ACTIVE" are displayed.
The Tire Pressure Monitor can be reset using
"RESET".
5. Press and hold the button until "RESETTING"
appears.
6. Start driving.
After driving a few minutes, the set inflation
pressures in the tires are accepted as the tar-
get values to be monitored. The system
reset is completed during your drive, and
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
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can be interrupted at any time. When driving
resumes, the reset is continued automati-
cally. The indicator lamp goes out after the
system reset is completed.
Message for low tire inflation pressure
The warning lamps come on in yellow
and red. An acoustic signal also sounds.
There is a flat tire or substantial loss of
tire pressure.
1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle with cau-
tion. Avoid sudden braking and steering
maneuvers.
2. Check whether your vehicle is equipped
with normal tires or Run-Flat Tires.
The symbol identifying Run-Flat Tires
is a circle with the letters RSC on the
sidewall, refer to the Owner's Manual for Ve-
hicle.<
Normal tires
1. Determine which tire is damaged.
If this cannot be determined, contact
your MINI Dealer.<
2. Repair the flat tire or change the damaged
tire, refer to page 121.
Run-Flat Tires*
1. Cautiously reduce speed to below 50 mph/
80 km/h. Avoid sudden braking and steering
maneuvers. Do not exceed a speed of
50 mph/80 km/h.
Do not continue driving if the vehicle is
not equipped with Run-Flat Tires, oth-
erwise a serious accident could result.<
2. In the event of complete tire pressure loss,
0 psi/0 kPa, you can estimate the possible
distance for continued driving on the basis
of the following guidelines:
> With a light load:
1 to 2 persons without luggage:
approx. 155 miles/250 km
> With a medium load:
2 persons, cargo bay full, or 4 persons
without luggage:
approx. 90 miles/150 km
> With a full load:
4 persons, load compartment full:
approx. 30 miles/50 km
Drive cautiously and do not exceed a
speed of 50 mph/80 km/h, otherwise an
accident may occur. In the event of pressure
loss, vehicle handling changes. This includes
reduced tracking stability in braking, extended
braking distance and altered natural steering
characteristics. If unusual vibration or loud
noises occur during the journey, this may be an
indication that the damaged tire has finally
failed. Reduce the vehicle speed and stop as
soon as possible. Otherwise, sections of the tire
may come loose and cause accidents. Do not
continue driving and contact your MINI Dealer.<
Malfunction
The small warning lamp flashes in yel-
low and then lights up continuously; the
larger warning lamp comes on in yel-
low. No punctures can be detected.
This type of message is shown in the following
situations:
> If there is a malfunction
Have the system checked.
> If a wheel without TPM electronics has been
mounted
> If TPM is temporarily malfunctioning due to
other systems or devices using the same
radio frequency.
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Technology for driving comfort and safety
64
Message for unsuccessful system reset
Both warning lamps come on in yellow.
The system is not reset after a tire has
been changed, for example.
Check the tire inflation pressure and
reset the system, refer to the Owner's Manual
for Vehicle.
Declaration according to NHTSA/
FMVSS 138 Tire Pressure Monitoring
Systems
Each tire, including the spare, should be
checked monthly when cold and inflated to the
inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle
manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire infla-
tion pressure label. If your vehicle has tires of a
different size than the size indicated on the vehi-
cle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you
should determine the proper tire inflation pres-
sure for those tires. As an added safety feature,
your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pres-
sure monitoring system TPMS that illuminates a
low tire pressure telltale when one or more of
your tires are significantly under-inflated.
Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale
illuminates, you should stop and check your tires
as soon as possible, and inflate them to the
proper pressure. Driving on a significantly
under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat
and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation also
reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and
may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping
ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substi-
tute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the
driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire
pressure, even if underinflation has not reached
the level at which the TPMS low tire pressure tell-
tale illuminates.
The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined
with the low tire pressure telltale. When the sys-
tem detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash
for approximately one minute and then remain
continuously lit. This sequence will continue
upon subsequent vehicle startups as long as the
malfunction exists. When the malfunction indi-
cator is illuminated, the system may not be able
to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended.
TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of
reasons, including the installation of replace-
ment or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle
that prevent the TPMS from functioning prop-
erly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale
after replacing one or more tires or wheels on
your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or
alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to
continue to function properly.
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Airbags
The following airbags are located under the
marked covers:
1 Front airbags
2 Side airbags in backrests
3 Head airbags at the front and rear
Protective action
Observe the instructions on page 29 to
ensure the best possible personal protec-
tion.<
The front airbags help protect the driver and
front passenger by responding to frontal
impacts in which safety belts alone cannot pro-
vide adequate restraint. When needed, the head
and side airbags help provide protection in the
event of side impact. The relevant side airbag
supports the side upper body area. The head air
bag supports the head.
The airbags are designed to not be triggered in
every type of collision, e.g. not in minor acci-
dents, certain rollover situations or rear impacts.
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them or
modify them in any other way.
Keep the dashboard and window on the passen-
ger side free from obstruction, i.e. do not cover it
with adhesive film or coverings, and do not affix
any holders such as for a navigation device or a
mobile phone.
Do not attach seat covers, cushions or other
objects not specifically approved for seats with
integral side airbags to the front seats. Do not
hang items of clothing such as coats or jackets
over the backrests. Do not attempt to remove
the airbag retention system from the vehicle. Do
not modify the individual components of the
system or its wiring in any way. This includes the
upholstered covers on the steering wheel,
instrument panel, seats and roof posts, as well as
the sides of the roof lining. Do not attempt to
remove or dismantle the steering wheel.
Do not touch the individual components imme-
diately after the system has been triggered,
because there is a danger of burns.
In the event of malfunctions, deactivation, or
triggering of the airbag restraint system, have
the testing, repair, removal, and disposal of air-
bag generators executed only by a MINI Dealer
or a workshop that works according to repair
procedures of the manufacturer of your MINI
with correspondingly trained personnel and has
the required explosives licenses. Otherwise,
unprofessional attempts to service the system
could lead to failure in an emergency or undes-
ired airbag activation, either of which could
result in personal injury.<
Warning notices and information about the air-
bags can also be found on the sun visors.
Automatic deactivation of the front
passenger airbags
An analysis of the impression in the front pas-
senger seat cushion determines whether and
how the seat is occupied. The front and side air-
bags for the front passenger are activated or
deactivated by the system accordingly.
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The indicator lamp above the interior rear-
view mirror shows the current status of
the front passenger airbags, deactivated or acti-
vated, refer to Status of front passenger airbags
below.<
Before transporting a child on the front
passenger seat, read the safety precau-
tions and handling instructions under Transport-
ing children safely, page 35.
The front and side airbags can also be deacti-
vated by adolescents and adults sitting in certain
positions; the indicator lamp for the front pas-
senger airbags comes on. In such cases, the pas-
senger should change his or her sitting position
so that the front passenger airbags are activated
and the indicator lamp goes out. If the desired
airbag status cannot be achieved by changing
the sitting position, transport the relevant pas-
senger on a rear seat. Do not attach covers,
cushions, ball mats or other items to the front
passenger seat unless they are specifically rec-
ommended by the manufacturer of your MINI.
Do not place any items under the seat which
could press against the seat from below. Other-
wise a correct analysis of the seat cushion is not
ensured.<
Status of front passenger airbags
The indicator lamp for the front passenger air-
bags shows the functional status of the front
passenger's front and side airbags in accordance
with whether and how the front passenger seat
is occupied. The indicator lamp shows whether
the front passenger airbags are activated or
deactivated.
> The indicator lamp comes on as intended
when a child in a specially designated child-
restraint system is detected on the seat.
The front and side airbags for the front pas-
senger are not activated.
Most child seats are detected by the
system. This particularly applies to
child seats that were required by the NHTSA
at the time of manufacture of the vehicle.
After installing a child's seat, check that the
indicator lamp for the front passenger air-
bags comes on. It indicates that the child's
seat has been detected and that the front
passenger airbags are deactivated.<
> The indicator lamp does not come on as long
as a person of sufficient size and in a correct
sitting position is detected on the seat.
The front and side airbags for the front pas-
senger are activated.
> The indicator lamp does not come on if the
seat is empty.
The front and side airbags for the front pas-
senger are not activated.
Operational readiness of airbag system
As of radio readiness, page 38, the warning
lamp comes on briefly to indicate that the entire
airbag system and the belt tensioners are oper-
ational.
Airbag system malfunction
> The warning lamp does not come on when
radio readiness or the ignition is switched
on.
> The warning lamp stays lit continuously.
In the event of a fault in the airbag system,
have it checked without delay, otherwise
there is the risk that the system will not function
as intended even if a sufficiently severe accident
occurs.<
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Lamps
Parking lamps/low beams
0 Lamps off and daytime running lamps
1 Parking lamps and daytime running lamps
2 Low-beam headlamps and welcome lamps
3 Automatic headlamp control
*
, daytime run-
ning lamps and welcome lamps
When you open the driver's door with the igni-
tion switched off, the exterior lighting is auto-
matically switched off if the light switch is in
position 0, 2 or 3.
Switch on the parking lamps if necessary, switch
position 1.
Parking lamps
Turn the light switch to position 1.
The front, rear and side vehicle lighting is
switched on.
Activation of lights on one side of the vehicle for
parking, page 69.
The parking lamps will discharge the bat-
tery. Therefore, do not leave them on for
unduly long periods of time, otherwise the bat-
tery might not have enough power to start the
engine.<
Low beams
Turn the light switch to position 2.
The low beams come on when the ignition is on.
Automatic headlamp control*
When the switch is in position 3, the low beams
are switched on and off automatically depend-
ing on ambient light conditions, e.g. in a tunnel,
in twilight, or if there is precipitation.
The headlamps may also come on when the sun
is sitting low on a blue sky.
When driving into tunnels with bright overhead
lights, there may be a delay before the head-
lamps come on.
The low beams remain switched on indepen-
dent of the ambient lighting conditions when
you switch on the fog lamps
*
.
If the daytime running lamps are activated,
page 68, the low beams are always switched on
with the light switch in position 3 and the igni-
tion on. The exterior lamps are automatically
switched off after the vehicle is parked.
The automatic headlamp control cannot
serve as a substitute for your personal
judgment in determining when the lamps
should be switched on in response to ambient
lighting conditions. For example, the system
cannot detect fog or hazy weather. To avoid
safety risks, you should respond to these kinds
of low-visibility situations by switching the head-
lamps on manually.<
Welcome lamps
If you leave the light switch in the low beam or
automatic headlamp control position when you
switch off the ignition, the parking lamps and
interior lamps come on for a certain time as soon
as the vehicle is unlocked.
Pathway lighting
If you activate the headlamp flasher after park-
ing the car, with the lights switched off, the low
beams come on and remain on for a certain
time.
The setting is stored for the remote control in
use, refer to Personal Profile, page 18.
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Lamps
68
Setting the duration or deactivating the
function
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 38.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
display shows the illustrated symbol.
7. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
8. Briefly press the button to select:
>
The function is deactivated.
> ...
Select the corresponding duration, e.g.
40 seconds.
9. Press the button for a longer period.
The setting is stored.
Daytime running lamps*
The light switch can remain in the lamps off,
parking lamps or automatic headlamp control
*
position.
In the lamps off position, the exterior lighting is
automatically switched off after the vehicle is
parked. In the parking lamps position, the park-
ing lamps will stay on after the ignition is
switched off.
Switch on the parking lamps separately if
needed.
Activating/deactivating daytime
running lamps
The setting is stored for the remote control in
use, refer to Personal Profile, page 18.
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 38.
2. Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
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4. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
5. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
6. Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
display shows the illustrated symbol, arrow.
7. Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
8. Briefly press the button to select:
>
Daytime running lamps activated.
>
Daytime running lamps deactivated.
9. Press the button for a longer period.
The setting is stored.
High beams/roadside
parking lamps
1 Turn signal indicators/roadside parking
lamps
*
2 Switching on high beams
3 Switching off high beams/headlamp flasher
Roadside parking lamps, left or right*
The vehicle can be illuminated on one side for
parking. Comply with local regulations when
doing so.
Switching on
After parking the vehicle, press the lever up or
down, arrow 1.
The roadside parking lamps drain the bat-
tery. Therefore, do not leave them on for
unduly long periods of time, otherwise the bat-
tery might not have enough power to start the
engine.<
Switching off
Press the lever up or down to the pressure point.
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Lamps
70
Fog lamps*
1 Fog lamps
*
2 Rear fog lamp
*
Press the respective switch to turn the lamps on/off.
Fog lamps*
The parking lamps or low beams must be
switched on for the fog lamps to operate. The
green indicator lamp comes on when the fog
lamps are switched on.
Depending on your vehicle's equipment, the fog
lamps are switched off when you activate the
headlamp flasher or switch on the high beams.
If the automatic headlamp control is acti-
vated, the low beams will come on auto-
matically when you switch on the fog lamps.<
Rear fog lamp*
The low beams or parking lamps with fog lamps
must be switched on. The yellow indicator lamp
comes on when the rear fog lamp is switched on.
Instrument lighting
You can adjust the brightness of the instrument
lighting only when the parking lamps or the low
beams are on.
Increasing brightness
Press and hold the button until the desired
brightness is reached.
Reducing brightness
Press the button briefly.
The brightness decreases every time the button
is pressed briefly.
Interior lamps
The interior lamps, the footwell lamps
*
and the
cargo bay lamp are controlled automatically.
To avoid draining the battery, all lamps
inside the car are switched off about
8 minutes after the ignition is switched off, refer
to Start/stop button on page 38.<
Switching interior lamps on/off manually
To switch the interior lamps on/off.
Press the switch.
To switch off the interior lamps permanently,
press the button for about 3 seconds.
Reading lamps*
To switch the reading lamps on and off.
Press the switch.
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Ambient lighting*
The color of the ambient lighting can be
changed.
> Press the switch forward.
The color changes in stages, ultimately to
orange.
> Press the switch toward the rear.
The color changes in stages, ultimately to
blue.
Intermediate settings and colors are possible.
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Climate
72
Climate
Equipment versions
Depending on your vehicle's equipment, your
MINI contains an air conditioner
or an automatic
climate control
*
.
1 Air conditioner
2 Automatic climate control
*
Air vents
3 Airflow directed toward the windshield and
side windows
4 Air to the upper body area
5 Air to the footwell
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Air conditioner
1 Air flow rate
2 Cooling function
3 Recirculated-air mode
4 Temperature
5 Rear window defroster
6 Air distribution
7 Windshield heating
Air flow rate
Adjust the air flow rate. The higher the
rate, the more effective the heating or
cooling will be.
The air flow rate is lowered or switched off
entirely to save on battery power.
Switching the system on/off
Turn the air flow rate rotary switch to 0. Blower
and air conditioner are completely switched off
and the air supply is cut off.
Set any desired air flow rate to switch on the air
conditioner.
Cooling function
When the cooling function is on,
the air is cooled, dried, then
reheated according to the temper-
ature setting. The recirculated-air mode may be
switched on automatically. This function is only
available while the engine is running.
The cooling function helps prevent condensa-
tion on the windows or removes it quickly.
Depending on the weather, the windshield may
fog over briefly when the engine is started.
Recirculated-air mode
If the air outside the car has an
unpleasant odor or contains pollut-
ants, shut off the supply to the inte-
rior of the car temporarily. The system then
recirculates the air currently within the vehicle.
If condensation starts to form on the
inside window surfaces, switch off the
recirculated-air mode and, if necessary, switch
on the cooling function
or increase the air flow
rate.<
To prevent the air quality inside the vehi-
cle from deteriorating during extended
use of the recirculated-air mode, fresh air is
added briefly at regular intervals.<
Temperature
Turn upward, red, to increase the temper-
ature.
Turn downward, blue, to decrease the
temperature.
Rear window defroster
The defroster is switched off auto-
matically after a certain time.
Air distribution
Direct the flow of air to the win-
dows , to the upper body area
or to the footwell . Interme-
diate settings are possible.
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Climate
74
Windshield heating*
The windshield heating is switched
off automatically after a short time.
Defrosting windows and removing
condensation
1. Set air flow rate to the maximum level.
2. Set air distribution to position .
Condensation is removed from the windows
more quickly when the cooling function
*
is
also activated.
3. Set to the highest temperature, red.
4. Deactivate recirculated-air mode.
5. Turn on windshield heating if necessary.
6. Turn on rear window defroster if necessary.
Microfilter
The microfilter captures dust and pollen. The
microfilter is changed by your MINI Dealer dur-
ing routine maintenance work.
Automatic climate control*
1 Air flow rate, manual
2 AUTO program
3 Automatic recirculated-air control AUC/
Recirculated-air mode
4 Maximum cooling
5 Air distribution, manual
6 Temperature
7 Defrosting windows and removing conden-
sation
8 Cooling function
9 Rear window defroster
10 Windshield heating
*
Comfortable interior climate
AUTO program 2 offers the ideal air distribution
and air flow rate for almost all conditions, refer
to AUTO program below. All you need to do is
select an interior temperature which is comfort-
able for you.
The following sections inform you in detail about
how to adjust the settings.
Most settings are stored for the remote control
currently in use, refer also to Personal Profile set-
tings on page 18.
Air flow rate, manual
Press the – button to reduce air flow. Press
the + button to increase it.
You can reactivate the automatic mode
for the air flow rate with the AUTO button.
The air flow rate is lowered or switched off
entirely to save on battery power. The display
remains the same.
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Switching the system on/off
Reduce the air flow by pressing the – button
repeatedly until the system is switched off. All
indicators go out.
Press the AUTO button to switch the automatic
climate control back on.
AUTO program
The AUTO program adjusts the air
distribution to the windshield and
side windows, towards the upper body area and
into the footwell for you. The air flow rate and
your temperature specifications will be adapted
to outside influences in accordance with sea-
sonal changes, e.g. sunlight.
The cooling function is automatically switched
on along with the AUTO program.
Automatic recirculated-air control AUC/
Recirculated-air mode
Switch on the desired operating
mode by pressing the button
repeatedly.
Display of operating modes
No display: outside air flows in continuously.
AUC mode: a sensor detects pollutants in
the outside air. If necessary, the system
blocks the supply of outside air and recir-
culates the inside air. As soon as the concentra-
tion of pollutants in the outside air has
decreased sufficiently, the system automatically
switches back to outside air supply.
At outside temperatures below approx. 417/
+5 6, the AUC mode may be restricted due to
the increased risk of window condensation.
Recirculated-air mode: the supply of out-
side air is permanently shut off. The sys-
tem then recirculates the air currently
within the vehicle.
If condensation starts to form on the
inside window surfaces, press the AUTO
button or switch off the recirculated-air mode
and, if necessary, increase the air flow rate.
The recirculated-air mode should not be used
over an extended period of time, otherwise the
air quality inside the car will deteriorate contin-
uously.<
Maximum cooling
At outside temperatures above
32 7/0 6 and when the engine is
running, you obtain a maximum
cooling effect as soon as possible.
The automatic climate control goes into recircu-
lated-air mode at the lowest temperature. Air
flows at maximum rate from the vents for the
upper body area. You should therefore open
them for maximum cooling.
Air distribution, manual
The flow of air is directed to the
windows, to the upper body area or
to the footwell as selected.
You can switch the automatic air
distribution back on by pressing the AUTO but-
ton.
Temperature
Set the desired temperature individually.
The automatic climate control achieves
this temperature as quickly as possible
regardless of the season, using maximum
cooling or heating power if necessary, and then
maintains it.
If you switch between different tempera-
ture settings in quick succession, the auto-
matic climate control does not have enough
time to achieve the set temperature.<
Rear window defroster
The defroster is switched off auto-
matically after a certain time.
Depending on your vehicle's equip-
ment, the upper wires serve as an
antenna and are not part of the rear window
defroster.
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Climate
76
Defrosting windows and removing
condensation
Quickly removes ice and condensa-
tion from the windshield and front
side windows.
For this purpose, also switch on the
cooling function.
The windshield heating
*
is switched on auto-
matically.
Windshield heating*
The windshield heating is switched
off automatically after a certain
time.
Cooling function
When the cooling function is on,
the air is cooled, dried, then
reheated according to the temper-
ature setting. This function is only
available while the engine is running.
The cooling function helps prevent condensa-
tion on the windows or removes it quickly.
Depending on the weather, the windshield may
fog over briefly when the engine is started. The
recirculated-air mode may be switched on auto-
matically.
The cooling function is automatically switched
on along with the AUTO program. The passenger
compartment can only be cooled while the
engine is running.
Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter
The microfilter captures dust and pollen. The
activated-charcoal filter provides additional pro-
tection by filtering gaseous pollutants from the
outside air. Your MINI Dealer replaces this com-
bined filter as a standard part of your scheduled
maintenance.
You can call up further information in the service
requirements display, page 53.
Ventilation
1 Knob for continuous opening and closing
2 Jet for direction of air flow
Opening/closing
Turn the knob.
Direction of air flow
Swivel the entire jet.
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Practical interior accessories
Integrated universal
remote control*
The concept
The integrated universal remote control can
replace as many as three hand-held transmitters
for various remote-controlled devices, such as
garage and gate openers and lighting systems.
The integrated universal remote control regis-
ters and stores signals from the original hand-
held transmitters.
The signal of an original hand-held transmitter
can be programmed on one of the three mem-
ory buttons 1. The system in question can then
be operated by means of the programmed
memory button 1. The LED 2 flashes to confirm
transmission of the signal.
If you decide to sell your vehicle one day, in the
interest of your own security, remember to clear
the stored programs before the vehicle leaves
your possession, page 78.
To prevent possible damage or injury,
before programming or using the inte-
grated universal remote control, always inspect
the immediate area to make certain that no
people, animals or objects are within the pivot-
ing or travel range of the device being operated.
Comply also with the safety instructions supplied
with the original hand-held transmitter.<
Checking compatibility
If this symbol appears on the package
or in the instructions supplied with the
original hand-held transmitter, you can
assume that the radio remote control device will
be compatible with the integrated universal
remote control.
For additional information, please contact your
MINI Dealer or call: 1-800-355-3515.
You can also obtain information on the Internet at:
www.MINI.com or
www.homelink.com
HomeLink is a registered trademark of Johnson
Controls, Inc.
Programming
1 Memory buttons
2 LED
Fixed-code hand-held transmitters
1. Switch on the ignition, page 38.
2. When starting operation for the first time:
press both outer memory buttons 1 for
approx. 20 seconds until the LED 2 flashes
rapidly. All stored programs are cleared.
3. Hold the original hand-held transmitter at a
distance of approx. 2 to 12 in/5 to 30 cm
from the memory buttons 1.
The required distance between the
hand-held transmitter and the mem-
ory buttons 1 depends on the system of the
respective original hand-held transmitter
used.<
4. Simultaneously press the transmit key on
the original hand-held transmitter and the
desired memory button 1 on the integrated
universal remote control. The LED 2 flashes
slowly at first. As soon as the LED 2 flashes
rapidly, release both buttons. If the LED 2
does not flash rapidly after approx. 15 sec-
onds, alter the distance.
5. To program other original hand-held trans-
mitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.
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Practical interior accessories
78
The corresponding memory button 1 is now
programmed with the signal of the original
hand-held transmitter.
You can operate the system with the engine
running or with the ignition switched on.
If the system fails to function even after
repeated programming, check whether
the original hand-held transmitter uses an alter-
nating-code system. To do so, either read the
instructions for the original hand-held transmit-
ter or hold down the programmed memory
button 1 of the integrated universal remote con-
trol. If the LED 2 on the integrated universal
remote control flashes rapidly and then remains
lit for about two seconds, the original hand-held
transmitter uses an alternating-code system. If it
uses an alternating-code system, program the
memory buttons 1 as described under Alternat-
ing-code hand-held transmitters.<
Alternating-code hand-held
transmitters
To program the integrated universal remote
control, consult the operating instructions for
the device to be set. You will find information
there on the possibilities for synchronization or
programming of additional hand-held transmit-
ters.
When programming hand-held transmitters that
employ an alternating code, please observe the
following supplementary instructions:
Programming will be easier with the aid of
a second person.<
1. Park your vehicle within the range of the
remote-controlled device.
2. Program the integrated universal remote
control as described above in the section
Fixed-code hand-held transmitters.
3. Locate the button on the receiver of the
device to be set, e.g. on the drive unit.
4. Press the button on the receiver of the
device to be set. After step 4, you have
approx. 30 seconds for the next step 5.
5. Press the programmed memory button 1 of
the integrated universal remote control
three times.
The corresponding memory button 1 is now
programmed with the signal of the original
hand-held transmitter.
Clearing stored programs
Press both outer memory buttons 1 for approx.
20 seconds until the LED 2 flashes: All stored
programs are cleared.
It is not possible to clear individual programs.
Reassigning individual programs
1. Hold the original hand-held transmitter at a
distance of approx. 2 to 12 in/5 to 30 cm
from the memory buttons 1.
The required distance between the
hand-held transmitter and the mem-
ory buttons 1 depends on the system of the
respective original hand-held transmitter
used.<
2. Press the desired memory button 1 of the
integrated universal remote control.
3. If the LED 2 flashes slowly after approx.
20 seconds, press the transmit key of the
original hand-held transmitter and release
both buttons as soon as the LED 2 flashes
rapidly.
If the LED 2 does not flash rapidly after
approx. 15 seconds, alter the distance and
repeat this step.
Glove compartment
Opening
Press the button to open the cover.
The light in the glove compartment comes on.
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79
Closing
Fold cover up.
To prevent injury in the event of an acci-
dent, close the glove compartment after
use while the vehicle is being driven.<
Ventilation*
Depending on your vehicle's equipment, it may
be possible to ventilate the glove compartment.
Opening
Turn the switch to the horizontal position, arrow.
Closing
Turn the switch to the vertical position.
Depending on the temperature setting of the air
conditioning or the automatic climate control,
high temperatures may result in the glove com-
partment.
Center armrest*
Storage compartment
The center armrest between the front seats con-
tains either a compartment or the cover for the
mobile phone base plate
*
or the snap-in adapter
*
.
Opening
The cover slides along guide rails and can be
opened fully by pushing it back and lifting it.
Closing
Push the cover forwards.
Connection for external
audio device
> iPods/iPhones or USB devices such as MP3
players and USB memory sticks: Connect via
the USB audio interface
> iPhone/mobile phone music players: Con-
nect via the snap-in adapter
*
(see separate
owner's manual). Playback is only possible if
there is no device connected to the USB
audio interface.
Connecting via the USB audio interface
1 Connection for audio playback:
TRS connector 1/8 in/3.5 mm
2 USB interface
*
iPod/iPhone
To connect the iPod/iPhone, use the cable
adapter for the Apple iPod.
For additional information, contact your MINI
Dealer or visit the Internet at www.MINI.com
To play audio tracks over the vehicle's loud-
speaker system, connect the iPod to ports 1
and 2.
The iPod/iPhone's menu structure is supported
by the USB audio interface.
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80
USB device
To play audio tracks over the vehicle's loudspeaker
system, connect the USB device to port 2.
Notes
Do not expose the audio device to
extreme environmental conditions, e.g.
very high temperatures, refer to the operating
instructions of the audio device. Otherwise the
audio device may become damaged, which
could compromise safety while driving.<
> The USB-audio interface supplies the con-
nected audio devices with power, provided
that this is supported by the audio device.
Therefore, do not connect the USB audio
device to the power socket in the vehicle
during operation.
> Do not forcibly connect the plug to the USB
interface.
> Do not connect devices such as fans or
lamps to the USB-audio interface.
> Do not connect USB hard disks.
> Do not use the USB-audio interface to
charge external devices.
Storage compartments
In the vehicle interior
Depending on your vehicle's equipment, you
will find storage compartments in the doors,
next to the rear seats and in the center console
*
.
Nets
*
are located in the passenger footwell and
on the backs of the front seat backrests.
Storage compartment on the front
passenger side*
Opening
Briefly press the bottom edge of the cover.
Closing
Push the cover back into its original position.
To prevent injury in the event of an acci-
dent, close the storage compartment after
use while the vehicle is being driven.<
Clothes hooks
There are clothes hooks on the grab handles in
the rear passenger compartment.
Items of clothing hung from the hooks
must not obstruct the driver's view. Do not
hang heavy objects from the hooks, otherwise
they could endanger the car's occupants, e.g. in
case of heavy braking or sudden swerving.<
In the cargo bay
Depending on your vehicle's equipment, you
have the following storage options:
> Umbrella holder
*
under the loading sill in
front of the warning triangle.
> Hooks, e.g. for shopping bags or carrying
bags, on the left and right sides of the cargo
bay.
> Storage compartment under the level load
floor
*
> Removable box with lid
*
under the level
load floor, e.g. for wet or dirty items
> Storage compartment in the splitdoor
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Cup holders and ashtray*
Cup holders
Two cup holders are located in the front of the
center console, another is in the rear at the back
of the center console.
There are two additional cup holders in the arm
rests in the rear.
Do not place glass containers in the cup
holders, as this increases the risk of injury
in the event of an accident.<
Ashtray*
The ashtray is located in one of the cup holders
in the center console.
Emptying
Remove the entire ashtray.
Lighter
With the engine running or the ignition switched
on, press in the cigarette lighter.
The lighter can be pulled out as soon as it pops
back out.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette lighter by
the knob only. Holding or touching it in
other areas could result in burns.
When leaving the car, always remove the key so
that children cannot operate the cigarette
lighter and burn themselves.<
Connecting electrical
appliances
In your MINI, you can use electrical devices such
as a flashlight, car vacuum cleaner, etc., up to
approx. 200 watts at 12 volts, as long as one of
the following sockets is available. Avoid damag-
ing the sockets by attempting to insert plugs of
unsuitable shape or size.
Cigarette lighter socket
Remove the lighter
*
or cover from the socket.
Power socket in cargo bay
By way of example, the illustration shows the
cargo bay in the MINI.
Pull out the cover.
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AT A GLANCE
CONTROLS
DRIVING TIPS
MOBILITY
REFERENCE
DRIVING TIPS
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Things to remember when driving
84
Things to remember when driving
Break-in period
Moving parts need breaking-in time to adjust to
each other. Please follow the instructions below
in order to achieve the optimal service life and
economy of operation for your vehicle.
Engine and differential
Always obey all official speed limits.
Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do
not exceed the following:
> Gasoline engine
4,500 rpm or 100 mph/160 km/h
Avoid full-throttle operation and use of the
transmission's kick-down mode.
After driving 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Engine and vehicle speeds can be gradually
increased.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated with their
manufacture, tires do not achieve their full trac-
tion potential until after an initial break-in
period. Therefore, drive cautiously during the
first 200 miles/300 km.
Brake system
Brakes require an initial break-in period of
approx. 300 miles/500 km to achieve optimized
contact and wear patterns between brake pads
and rotors. Drive cautiously during this break-in
period.
Clutch
The function of the clutch reaches its optimal
level only after a distance driven of approx.
300 miles/500 km. During this break-in period,
engage the clutch gently.
Following part replacement
The same break-in procedures should be
observed if any of the components mentioned
above have to be renewed in the course of the
vehicle's operating life.
General driving notes
Close splitdoor
Drive the vehicle only when the splitdoor
is closed. Otherwise, exhaust fumes could
penetrate the interior of the vehicle.<
If special circumstances make it absolutely nec-
essary to drive with the splitdoor open:
1. Close all windows and the glass sunroof.
2. Switch off the recirculated-air mode and sig-
nificantly increase the air flow rate of the air
conditioner or automatic climate control,
page 73 or 74.
Hot exhaust system
In all vehicles, extremely high tempera-
tures are generated in the exhaust system.
Do not remove the heat shields installed adjacent
to various sections of the exhaust system, and
never apply undercoating to them. When driving,
standing at idle and while parking, take care to
avoid possible contact between the hot exhaust
system and any highly flammable materials such
as hay, leaves, grass, etc. Such contact could lead
to a fire, with the risk of serious personal injuries
and property damage. Do not touch hot exhaust
tail pipes. Otherwise there is a risk of burns.<
Hydroplaning
When driving on wet or slushy roads,
reduce road speed. If you do not, a wedge
of water can form between tires and road sur-
face. This situation, known as hydroplaning, can
cause partial or complete loss of tire contact
with the road surface, so that the car cannot be
steered or braked properly.<
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The risk of hydroplaning increases with declining
tread depth on the tires, refer also to Tread
depth on page 102.
Driving through water
Drive through water on the road only if it is
not deeper than 1 ft/30 cm, and then only
at walking speed at the most. Otherwise, the
vehicle's engine, the electrical systems and the
transmission may be damaged.<
Parking brake on inclines
On inclines, do not hold the vehicle with
the clutch; use the parking brake. Other-
wise greater clutch wear will result.<
For information on driving off using Hill Start
Assist
*
, refer to page 59.
Braking safely
Your MINI is equipped with ABS. If you are in a
situation which requires full braking, it is best to
brake using maximum brake pressure. Since the
vehicle maintains steering responsiveness, you
can still avoid possible obstacles with a mini-
mum of steering effort.
The pulsation of the brake pedal, together with
the sound of hydraulic regulation, indicates that
ABS is actively taking effect.
Driving in wet conditions
When roads are wet or there is heavy rain, briefly
exert gentle pressure on the brake pedal every
few miles. Monitor traffic conditions to ensure
that this maneuver does not endanger other
road users. The heat generated in this process
helps dry the pads and rotors to ensure that
Then full braking force will be immediately avail-
able when it is needed.
Hills
To prevent overheating and the resulting
reduced efficiency of the brake system,
drive long or steep downhill gradients in the
gear in which the least braking is required. Even
light but consistent brake pressure can lead to
high temperatures, brake wear and possibly
even brake failure.<
You can increase the engine's braking effect by
shifting down, all the way to first gear if necessary.
This strategy helps you avoid placing excessive
loads on the brake system. Downshifting in man-
ual mode of the automatic transmission, page 41.
Never drive with the clutch held down,
with the transmission in neutral or with
the engine switched off; otherwise, engine brak-
ing action will not be present or there will be no
power assistance to the brakes or steering.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or any other
objects to protrude into the area around the
pedals, otherwise pedal function could be
impaired.<
Corrosion on brake rotors
When the vehicle is driven only occasionally, dur-
ing extended periods when the vehicle is not
used at all, and in operating conditions where
brake applications are less frequent, there is an
increased tendency for corrosion to form on
rotors, while contaminants accumulate on the
brake pads. This occurs because the minimum
pressure which must be exerted by the pads dur-
ing brake applications to clean the rotors is not
reached.
Should corrosion form on the brake rotors, the
brakes will tend to respond with a pulsating effect
that even extended application will fail to cure.
When the vehicle is parked
Condensation forms while the automatic climate
control is in operation, and then exits under the
vehicle. Traces of condensed water under the
vehicle are therefore normal.
In the MINI Cooper S, the coolant pump may
continue to run for some time after the engine is
switched off. This will generate noise in the
engine compartment.
Before driving into a car wash
Avoid car washes with tracks higher than
4 in/10 cm, otherwise the chassis could be
damaged.<
For general information about vehicle care for
your MINI, refer to the chapter beginning on
page 111.
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Things to remember when driving
86
With convenient access and automatic
transmission
Insert the key into the ignition lock.
The engine can be switched off when the selec-
tor lever is in position N. Refer also to page 26.
Cargo loading
To avoid loading the tires beyond their
approved carrying capacity, never over-
load the vehicle. Overloading can lead to over-
heating and increases the rate at which damage
develops inside the tires. The ultimate result can
assume the form of a sudden blow-out.<
Avoid fluid spills in the cargo bay as they
could damage the vehicle.<
Cargo bay cover
Do not place any objects on the cover,
otherwise they could endanger the car's
occupants, e.g. in the case of braking or sudden
swerving.<
The luggage compartment cover can be locked
in intermediate positions 1 to 3.
To load bulky luggage, the cover can be
removed.
1. Pull on the handle, arrow 1, to detach the
cargo bay cover.
2. Lift the cargo bay cover up out of the hold-
ers, arrows 2.
Expanding the cargo bay
The rear set backrest is split. Both sides can be
folded separately to expand the cargo bay.
If necessary, remove the third head restraint
(see Head restraints, Removing on page 31).
By way of example, the illustration shows the
cargo compartment in the MINI.
1. Pull the lever.
2. Fold rear seat backrests forward.
When folding the backrest back up, make
sure that the seat's locking mechanisms
engage properly. Otherwise, cargo could be
thrown around in the event of sharp braking or
swerving and endanger the occupants.<
Adjusting rear seat backrest*
Expand the cargo bay by raising the split rear
seat backrests to a steeper angle.
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By way of example, the illustration shows the
cargo compartment in the MINI.
1. Pull the lever, arrow 1, and fold the rear seat
backrest forward.
2. Fold up the lever of the backrest lock until it
audibly engages, arrow 2.
3. Fold back the backrest until it engages.
If the rear seat backrests are positioned at
a steeper angle, do not install child-
restraint systems in the rear of the vehicle as
their protective features may be ineffective.<
Partition net*
Ensure that the partition net is firmly
attached, otherwise injuries may occur.<
The partition net can be mounted in the cargo
bay or behind the front seats.
In the cargo bay
1. Fold the rear seat backrest forward if neces-
sary, page 86.
2. Insert each partition net mounting pin all the
way into its respective rear mount in the
headliner, arrow 1, and push it forward.
3. Hang the hooks of the partition net into the
eyelets on the cargo bay floor, arrow 2.
Behind the front seats
1. Fold down the rear seat backrests, refer to
Expanding the cargo bay.
2. Insert each partition net mounting pin all the
way into its respective front mount in the
headliner, arrow 1, and push it forward.
3. Fold up the eyelets on the rear seat and
hook the partition net into them, arrow 2.
Level load floor*
The maximum load capacity of the level
load floor is 165 lb/75 kg. For the storage
compartment under the load floor, do not
exceed a maximum load of 55 lb/25 kg, other-
wise damage may occur.<
Raise the level load floor and fold it up toward
the front, arrow.
Removing
1. Fold up the level load floor.
2. Pull the load floor back slightly.
3. Then take it out toward the top.
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Things to remember when driving
88
Determining cargo limit
1. Locate the following statement on your
vehicle's placard
*
:
The combined weight of occupants
and cargo should never exceed
XXX kg or YYY lbs. Otherwise, overloading
can result in damage to the vehicle and un-
stable driving conditions.<
2. Determine the combined weight of the
driver and passengers that will be riding in
your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver
and passengers from XXX kilograms or YYY
pounds.
4. The resulting figure equals the available
amount of cargo and luggage load capacity.
For example, if the XXX amount equals
1,400 lbs. and there will be four 150-lb. pas-
sengers in your vehicle, the amount of avail-
able cargo and luggage load capacity is
650 lbs:
1,400 lbs. minus 750 lbs. = 650 lbs.
5. Determine the combined weight of luggage
and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That
weight may not safely exceed the available
cargo and luggage load capacity calculated
in step 4.
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, part of
the load from your trailer will be transferred
to your vehicle. Consult the manual for
transporting a trailer to determine how this
may reduce the available cargo and luggage
load capacity of your vehicle.
Load
The permissible load is the sum of the occu-
pants' weights and the weight of the cargo. The
greater the weight of the occupants, the less
cargo/luggage can be transported.
Stowing cargo
> Position heavy objects as low and as far for-
ward as possible, ideally directly behind the
rear seat backrests.
> Cover sharp edges and corners.
> For very heavy cargo when the rear seat is
not occupied, secure each safety belt in the
respective opposite buckle.
> Do not stack higher than the top edge of the
backrests.
> Use the partition net, refer to page 87.
Ensure that no objects can penetrate
through the net.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
89
Securing cargo
By way of example, the illustration shows the
cargo compartment in the MINI.
> Secure smaller and lighter items using
retaining or draw straps
*
.
> Heavy-duty cargo straps
*
for securing larger
and heavier objects are available at your
MINI Dealer. Four lashing eyes are provided
for attaching the cargo straps. Two of them
are located on the forward wall of the cargo
bay.
Comply with the information enclosed with
the load-securing devices.
Always position and secure the cargo as
described above, so that it cannot endan-
ger the car's occupants, for example if sudden
braking or swerves are necessary.
Do not exceed the approved gross weight and
axle loads (see page 144); otherwise the vehi-
cle's operating safety is no longer assured and it
will not be in compliance with the certification
regulations.
Heavy or hard objects should not be carried
loose inside the car, since they could be thrown
around, for example as a result of heavy braking,
sudden swerves, etc., and endanger the occu-
pants. Do not secure cargo using the fastening
points for the tether strap (page 36); they may
become damaged.<
Roof-mounted luggage
rack*
A special rack system is available as an option for
your MINI. Your MINI Dealer will be glad to
advise you. Comply with the installation instruc-
tions supplied with the rack system.
Mounting points
By way of example, the illustration shows the
roof of the MINI.
Remove the cover panel.
Loading roof-mounted luggage rack
Because roof racks raise the vehicle's center of
gravity when loaded, they have a major effect
on vehicle handling and steering response.
You should therefore always remember not to
exceed the approved roof load capacity, the
approved gross vehicle weight or the axle loads
when loading the rack.
You can find the applicable data under Weights
on page 144.
The roof load must be distributed uniformly and
should not be too large in area. Heavy items
should always be placed at the bottom.
When loading, make sure that there is sufficient
space for the movement of the glass sunroof.
Fasten roof-mounted cargo correctly and
securely to prevent it from shifting or falling off
during the trip.
Drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and
braking maneuvers, and take corners gently.
Saving fuel
Fuel consumption depends on a number of dif-
ferent factors. The implementation of certain
measures, your driving style and regular mainte-
nance can have an influence on fuel consump-
tion and on the environmental impact.
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Things to remember when driving
90
Remove unnecessary cargo
Additional weight increases fuel consumption.
Remove attached parts no longer in use
Remove auxiliary mirrors, roof- or rear-mounted
luggage racks whenever you are not using
them.
Attached parts on the vehicle affect its aerody-
namics and increase fuel consumption.
Check tire inflation pressure regularly
Check and, if necessary, correct tire inflation
pressure at least twice a month and before start-
ing on a long trip.
Low inflation pressure increases rolling resis-
tance and thus leads to greater fuel consump-
tion and tire wear.
Drive off immediately
Do not wait for the engine to warm up while the
vehicle remains stationary. Start driving right
away, but at moderate engine speeds. This is the
fastest way for the cold engine to reach its oper-
ating temperature.
Think ahead while driving
Avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking by
maintaining a suitable distance to the vehicle
driving ahead.
Driving smoothly and anticipating impending
traffic situations reduces fuel consumption.
Avoid high engine speeds
Use first gear only for driving off. In second and
higher gears, accelerate smoothly to a suitable
engine and road speed. In doing so, avoid high
engine speeds and shift up early.
When you reach your desired traveling speed,
shift to the highest suitable gear and drive at
constant speed.
As a rule: driving at low engine speeds lowers
fuel consumption and reduces wear.
Coasting
When approaching a red traffic light, take your
foot off the accelerator and let the vehicle coast
to a halt in the highest suitable gear.
On a downhill gradient, take your foot off the
accelerator and let the vehicle coast in a suitable
gear.
Fuel supply is shut off automatically when the
vehicle is coasting.
Switch off the engine during lengthy
stops
Switch off the engine when stopping for lengthy
periods, e.g. at traffic lights, railroad crossings or
in traffic congestions.
Have the vehicle serviced
Have your vehicle serviced regularly to achieve
good economy and a long vehicle life. The man-
ufacturer of your MINI recommends having the
vehicle serviced by a MINI Dealer. Also note the
MINI Maintenance System, page 109.
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Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 601 017 - © 08/08 BMW AG

MOBILITY
CONTROLS
DRIVING TIPS
AT A GLANCE
REFERENCE
MOBILITY
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Refueling
94
Refueling
Switch off the engine before refueling,
otherwise fuel cannot be added to the
tank and a message will be displayed.<
Take all precautionary measures and
observe all applicable regulations when
handling fuel. Do not carry any spare fuel con-
tainers in your vehicle. They can develop a leak
and cause an explosion or cause a fire in the
event of an accident.<
Fuel filler door
Opening
1. Open fuel filler door.
2. Turn the gas cap counterclockwise.
3. Place the gas cap in the bracket attached to
the fuel filler door.
Closing
Fit the cap and turn it clockwise until you clearly
hear a click.
Do not pinch the band attached to the
cap, otherwise the cap cannot be closed
properly and fuel vapors can escape. A message
will be displayed if the gas cap is loose or miss-
ing.<
Manually releasing the fuel filler door
Pull on the green knob with the fuel pump sym-
bol; the fuel filler door opens.
Observe the following when refueling
Take all precautionary measures and
observe all applicable regulations when
handling fuel, otherwise there is a danger of per-
sonal injury and property damage.<
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle completely
into the filler pipe. Avoid lifting the filler nozzle
while filling the tank, as that would lead to
> premature pump shutoff
> reduced efficiency of the fuel-vapor recov-
ery system.
The fuel tank is full when the filler nozzle clicks
off the first time.
Fuel tank capacity
If the range displayed is less than
30 miles/50 km, be sure to refuel; other-
wise engine functions are not guaranteed and
damage could occur.<
MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S
Approx. 13.2 US gallons/50 liters, including the
reserve capacity of 2.1 US gallons/8 liters.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
95
Fuel specifications
Do not fill the tank with leaded fuel, as this
would cause damage to the catalytic con-
verter.
Do not fill the tank with E85, i.e. fuel containing
85% ethanol, nor with FlexFuel. Otherwise the
engine and fuel supply system will be damaged.<
Required fuel
Super Premium gasoline/AKI 91
This gasoline is highly recommended.
However, you may also use gasoline with less
AKI. The minimum AKI Rating is 87.
If you use gasoline with this minimum AKI Rat-
ing, the engine may produce knocking sounds
when starting at high outside temperatures. This
has no effect on the engine life.
Do not use any gasoline below the speci-
fied minimum fuel grade. Otherwise the
engine could be damaged.<
Use high-quality brands
Field experience has indicated significant differ-
ences in fuel quality: volatility, composition,
additives, etc., among gasolines offered for sale
in the United States and Canada. Fuels contain-
ing up to and including 10% ethanol or other
oxygenates with up to 2.8% oxygen by weight,
that is, 15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an
equivalent amount of co-solvent, will not void
the applicable warranties with respect to defects
in materials or workmanship.
The use of poor-quality fuels may result in
driveability, starting and stalling problems
especially under certain environmental condi-
tions such as high ambient temperature and
high altitude.
Should you encounter driveability problems
which you suspect could be related to the fuel
you are using, we recommend that you respond
by switching to a recognized high-quality brand
such as gasoline that is advertised as Top Tier
Detergent Gasoline.
Failure to comply with these recommendations
may also result in unscheduled maintenance.<
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Wheels and tires
96
Wheels and tires
Tire inflation pressures
Information for your safety
It is not merely the tires' service life, but also
driving comfort and, to a great extent, driving
safety that depend on the condition of the tires
and the maintenance of the specified tire pres-
sure.
Checking pressure
Check the tire inflation pressure regularly
and correct it, if necessary: at least twice a
month and before starting long trips. If you fail
to observe this precaution you may be driving
on tires with incorrect tire pressures, a condition
that can not only compromise your vehicle's
driving stability, but also lead to tire damage and
the risk of an accident. Do not drive with
deflated, i.e. flat tires, except when using Run-
Flat Tires. A flat tire will seriously impair your
vehicle's handling and braking response.
Attempts to drive on a flat tire can lead to loss of
control over the vehicle.<
Check the tire inflation pressures only on cold
tires. This means after a maximum of 1.25 miles/
2 km driving or when the vehicle has been
parked for at least 2 hours. When tires are warm,
the tire inflation pressure is higher.
After adjusting the tire inflation pressure,
reinitialize the flat tire monitor (page 60),
or reset the tire pressure control (page 62).<
Checking the tire inflation pressure of
the compact tire*
To check the inflation pressure, fold up the level
load floor. Remove the onboard tool kit and the
space-saver spare tire, refer to page 121.
Inflation pressure specifications
The tables below provide all the correct inflation
pressures for the specified tire sizes at ambient
temperature.
The tire inflation pressures apply to the
tire sizes approved and the tire brands
recommended by the manufacturer of your
MINI. Your MINI Dealer will be glad to advise
you.<
For correct identification of the right tire infla-
tion pressures, observe the following:
> Tire sizes for your vehicle
> Load conditions
> Maximum allowable driving speed
Tire inflation pressures for driving up to
100 mph or 160 km/h
For normal driving speeds of up to 100 mph or
160 km/h and to achieve optimum driving com-
fort, adjust pressures to the respective tire infla-
tion pressures listed on the following pages in
the columns for traveling speeds up to a maxi-
mum of 100 mph or 160 km/h.
These tire inflation pressures can also be found
on the driver's-side door post when the driver's
door is open.
The maximum permissible speed for these
tire pressures is 100 mph or 160 km/h. Do
not exceed this speed, otherwise tire damage
and accidents could occur.<
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
97
Tire inflation pressures for driving above
100 mph or 160 km/h
In order to drive at maximum speeds in
excess of 100 mph or 160 km/h, adjust
pressures to the respective tire inflation pres-
sures listed on the following pages in the col-
umns for traveling speeds including those
exceeding 100 mph or 160 km/h. Otherwise tire
damage and accidents could occur.<
Observe all national and local maximum speed
limits, otherwise violations of the laws could
occur.
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Wheels and tires
98
MINI Cooper Clubman tire inflation pressures
Tire size Pressure specifications in psi/kPa
Speeds up to a
max. of 100 mph /
160 km/h
Speeds including those exceeding
100 mph / 160 km/h
All pressure specifications
in the table are indicated in
psi/kilopascal with cold
tires. Cold = ambient tem-
perature
195/55 R 16 87 V RSC
195/55 R 16 87 H M+S RSC
195/55 R 16 87 V M+S RSC
32/220 32/220 32/220 32/220 35/240 38/260
175/65 R 15 84 T M+S
175/65 R 15 84 H M+S
175/65 R 15 84 H
175/60 R 16 82 H M+S RSC
205/45 R 17 84 V RSC
205/45 R 17 84 V M+S RSC
205/40 R 18 82 W RSC
35/240 35/240 35/240 35/240 38/260 41/280
Emergency wheel:
115/70 R 15 90 M
60/420 60/420 – – 60/420 60/420
More details on the permissible load and weights can be found on page 144.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
99
MINI Cooper S Clubman tire inflation pressures
Tire size Pressure specifications in psi/kPa
Speeds up to a
max. of 100 mph /
160 km/h
Speeds including those exceeding
100 mph / 160 km/h
All pressure specifications
in the table are indicated in
psi/kilopascal with cold
tires. Cold = ambient tem-
perature
195/55 R 16 87 V RSC
195/55 R 16 87 H M+S RSC
195/55 R 16 87 V M+S RSC
35/240 35/240 35/240 35/240 38/260 41/280
205/45 R 17 84 V RSC
205/45 R 17 84 V M+S RSC
205/40 R 18 82 W RSC
175/60 R 16 82 H M+S RSC
38/260 38/260 38/260 38/260 41/280 44/300
More details on the permissible load and weights can be found on page 144.
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Wheels and tires
100
MINI John Cooper Works Clubman tire inflation pressures
Tire size Pressure specifications in psi/kPa
Speeds up to a
max. of 100 mph /
160 km/h
Speeds including those exceeding
100 mph / 160 km/h
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in
psi/kilopascal with cold tires.
Cold = ambient temperature
185/50 R 17 86 H M+S XL RSC
205/45 R 17 84 V M+S RSC
205/45 R 17 84 W RSC
38/260 38/260 38/260 38/260 39/270 45/310
205/40 R 18 82 W RSC 41/280 41/280 41/280 41/280 42/290 48/330
More details on the permissible load and weights can be found on page 144.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
101
Tire coding
Knowledge of the labeling on the side of the tire
makes it easier to identify and choose the right
tires.
Tire size
Speed code letter
Q = up to 100 mph or 160 km/h
T = up to 118 mph or 190 km/h
H = up to 131 mph or 210 km/h
V = up to 150 mph or 240 km/h
W = up to 167 mph or 270 km/h
Y = up to 186 mph or 300 km/h
Tire Identification Number
Tires with DOT codes meet the guidelines of the
US Department of Transportation.
DOT code:
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable
on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and
maximum section width. For example:
Tread wear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
DOT Quality Grades
Tread wear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger car tires must conform to
Federal Safety Requirements in addition
to these grades.<
Tread wear
The tread wear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified gov-
ernment test course. For example, a tire graded
150 would wear one and one-half (1γ) times as
well on the government course as a tire graded
100. The relative performance of tires depends
upon the actual conditions of their use, how-
ever, and may depart significantly from the
norm due to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road characteristics
and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are
AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop
on wet pavement as measured under controlled
conditions on specified government test sur-
faces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on straight-ahead braking traction
tests, and does not include acceleration, corner-
ing, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteris-
tics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A, the highest, B,
and C, representing the tire's resistance to the
generation of heat and its ability to dissipate
heat when tested under controlled conditions
on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sus-
tained high temperature can cause the material
of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire
failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of
performance which all passenger car tires must
meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent
higher levels of performance on the laboratory
test wheel than the minimum required by law.
The temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is properly
inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed,
underinflation, or excessive loading, either sep-
arately or in combination, can cause heat
buildup and possible tire failure.<
e.g.
Manufacturer's
code for tire make
Tire size and
tire design
Tire age
DOT xxxx xxx 3408
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Wheels and tires
102
RSC – Run-Flat Tires
You will recognize Run-Flat Tires by a circular
symbol containing the letters RSC on the side of
the tire, page 103.
M+S
Winter and all-season tires.
These have better winter properties than sum-
mer tires.
XL
Designation for specially reinforced tires.
Tire condition
Inspect your tires regularly for tread wear, signs
of damage and for foreign objects lodged in the
tread. Check the tread depth.
Tread depth
The tread depth should not drop below 1/8 in/
3 mm, although, for example, European legisla-
tion only specifies a minimum tread depth of
1/16 in/1.6 mm. At tread depths below 1/8 in/
3 mm there is an increased risk of high-speed
hydroplaning, even when only small amounts of
water are present on the road surface.
Winter tires
When winter tires wear down past a tread depth
of 1/6 in/4 mm, they become perceptibly less
suitable for winter conditions. In the interest of
safety, new tires should be installed.
Minimum tread depth
Wear indicators in the base of the tread groove
are distributed around the tire's circumference;
the letters TWI, for Tread Wear Indicator, on the
tire's sidewalls identify tires that incorporate
these wear indicators. When tire tread is worn
down to the level of the wear indicators, the
remaining tread depth is 1/16 in/1.6 mm.
Tire damage
Please note that low-profile tires cause wheels,
tires and suspension parts to be more suscepti-
ble to road hazard and consequential damages.
Unusual vibrations encountered during normal
vehicle operation can indicate tire failure or
some other vehicle defect. This can, for exam-
ple, be caused by driving over curbs. The same
applies to any other abnormal road behavior,
such as pulling severely to the right or left.
In these cases, reduce speed immediately
and have wheels and tires thoroughly
checked. To do so, drive carefully to the nearest
MINI Dealer or tire shop that works according to
MINI repair procedures with correspondingly
trained personnel. If necessary, have the vehicle
towed there.
Otherwise tire damage can be extremely dan-
gerous for vehicle occupants and other road
users.<
Tire age
The manufacturing date of tires is contained in
the tire coding:
DOT ... 3408 means that the tire was manufac-
tured in week 34 of 2008.
For various reasons, such as the development of
brittleness, the manufacturer of your MINI rec-
ommends tire replacement after no more than
6 years, regardless of the actual wear of the
tires.
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
103
Run-Flat Tires*
The symbol identifying Run-Flat Tires is a circle
with the letters RSC on the sidewall.
Run-Flat Tires comprise a conditionally self-sup-
porting tire and a special rim. The reinforcement
in the sidewalls ensures that the tire can con-
tinue to be used subject to certain restrictions,
even if depressurized.
For information on continuing to drive with a flat
tire, refer to Indication of a flat tire, page 61.
New wheels and tires
Have new wheels and tires mounted only
by your MINI Dealer or a specialized tire
shop that has specially trained personnel work-
ing in accordance with the specifications of the
MINI manufacturer. If this work is not carried out
properly, there is a danger of subsequent dam-
age and related safety hazards. Make sure that
the new wheels are balanced.<
Retreaded tires
The manufacturer of your MINI recom-
mends that you avoid using retreaded tires,
as this could impair driving safety. The causes for
this include potentially different tire casing struc-
tures and often wide variations in tire age, which
can result in a limited service life.<
Correct wheels and tires
The manufacturer of your MINI recom-
mends mounting only wheels and tires
that it has specifically approved for use on your
particular model. Although other wheels and
tires may theoretically have the same dimen-
sions, variations in factors such as manufactur-
ing tolerances can result in contact between tire
and bodywork, ultimately leading to serious
accidents. The manufacturer of your MINI can-
not evaluate non-approved wheels and tires to
determine if they are suited for use, and there-
fore cannot ensure the operating safety of the
vehicle if they are mounted.<
Your MINI Dealer will be glad to inform you
about the correct wheel and tire combination for
your vehicle.
The correct combination of wheels and tires is
also necessary to ensure reliable operation of
various vehicle systems such as ABS and DSC.
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single brand and
tread configuration. After a tire has been dam-
aged, mount the previous wheel and tire combi-
nation again as soon as possible.
Wheels with Tire Pressure Monitor TPM
electronics
When mounting new tires or changing over from
summer to winter tires, or vice versa, only use
wheels with TPM electronics; otherwise the Tire
Pressure Monitor may not be able to detect a
puncture, refer to page 63. Your MINI Dealer will
be glad to advise you.
Recommended tire brands
For each tire size, the manufacturer of your MINI
recommends certain tire brands. They are
marked with a clearly visible MINI designation
on the sidewall of the tire.
When properly used, these tires meet the high-
est standards in terms of safety and handling
characteristics.
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Wheels and tires
104
Run-Flat Tires*
When mounting new tires or changing over from
summer to winter tires and vice versa, mount
Run-Flat Tires for your own safety. Keep in mind
that no space-saver spare tire is available in the
event of a flat. Your MINI Dealer will be glad to
advise you.
Special characteristics of winter tires
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends
winter tires for driving in adverse winter road
conditions. Although all-season M+S tires pro-
vide better winter traction than summer tires,
they generally fail to provide the same levels of
cold-weather performance as winter tires.
Pay attention to speed
Always comply with the speed limit for the
winter tires mounted on your car; failure
to do so could result in tire damage and acci-
dents.<
If the car is capable of speeds higher than that
permitted for the winter tires, a label stating the
maximum permitted speed for the mounted
tires must be displayed in your field of view. Spe-
cialist tire dealers and your MINI Dealer can sup-
ply these labels.
Storage
Always store wheels and tires in a cool, dry place
with as little exposure to light as possible.
Always protect tires against all contact with oil,
grease and fuels.
Do not exceed the maximum tire inflation pres-
sure indicated on the sidewall of the tire.
Swapping wheels among the axles
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends
that you do not swap the front wheels with the
rear wheels as this may impair the handling of
your MINI.
Snow chains*
Only certain types of fine-link snow chains have
been tested by the manufacturer of your MINI,
classified as road-safe and recommended. Con-
tact your MINI Dealer for more details.
Only attach snow chains in pairs to the front
wheels with the following tires.
> 175/65 R 15 M+S
> 175/60 R 16 M+S
MINI John Cooper Works Clubman:
> 185/50 R 17 86 H M+S XL RSC
Observe the manufacturer's instructions when
mounting snow chains. Do not exceed a speed
of 30 mph or 50 km/h.
Do not initialize the Flat Tire Monitor if
snow chains are mounted, otherwise the
instrument might issue an incorrect reading.
When driving with snow chains, it can be useful
to briefly deactivate the DSC or activate the DTC
(see page 59).<
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
105
Under the bonnet
Do not work on the car unless you possess
the necessary technical knowledge. If you
are not familiar with the regulations to be
observed, have the necessary work on your
vehicle carried out only by a MINI Dealer or a
workshop that has specially trained personnel
working in accordance with the specifications of
the MINI manufacturer. If this work is not carried
out properly, there is a danger of subsequent
damage and related safety hazards.<
Bonnet
Releasing
Pull the lever.
Do not clean the windshield and head-
lamps if the bonnet is unlocked as this
may damage the headlamp washer system
*
.<
Opening
To avoid damage, make sure that the
wiper arms are against the windshield
before you open the bonnet.<
Press the release handle and open the bonnet.
Closing
Close the bonnet from a height of approx. 16 in/
40 cm with momentum. It must be clearly heard
to engage.
If you notice any signs while driving your
vehicle that the bonnet is not completely
closed, stop at once and close it securely.
Make sure that the closing path of the bonnet is
clear, otherwise injuries may result.<
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Under the bonnet
106
Important parts of the engine compartment
1 Battery, under the cover 125
2 Engine oil dipstick 106
3 Engine oil filler neck 107
4 Coolant expansion tank 107
5 Reservoir for washer fluid for the headlamp
and window washer system 45
6 Engine compartment fuse box 123
Engine oil
The engine oil consumption is dependent on
driving style and driving conditions.
Checking engine oil level
1. With the vehicle's engine at normal operat-
ing temperature, i.e. after uninterrupted
driving for at least 6 miles/10 km, park the
vehicle on a level surface.
2. Switch off the engine.
3. Pull the dipstick out after approx. 5 minutes
and wipe it off with a lint-free cloth, paper
towel or similar material.
4. Carefully push the dipstick all the way into
the guide tube and pull it out again.
The oil level should be between the two
marks on the dipstick.
The oil quantity corresponding to the difference
between the two marks on the dipstick is 1 US
quart/1 liter.
Do not fill beyond the upper mark on the
dipstick. Excess oil will damage the
engine.<
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REFERENCE AT A GLANCECONTROLSDRIVING TIPSMOBILITY
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Adding engine oil
Do not add the maximum quantity of 1 US
quart/1 liter of engine oil until the oil level has
dropped to just above the lower mark on the
dipstick, page 106.
Add oil within the next 30 miles/50 km,
otherwise the engine could be dam-
aged.<
Keep oils, greases, etc. out of the reach of
children and comply with the warnings on
the containers. Otherwise, health hazards may
result.<
Oil change
Have the oil changed only by a MINI Dealer or a
workshop that has specially trained personnel
working in accordance with the specifications of
the MINI manufacturer.
Approved engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected has critical
significance for the operation and service life of
an engine. Based on extensive testing, the man-
ufacturer of your MINI approves only certain
grades of engine oil on a regular basis.
Only use High Performance Synthetic Oil
approved by the manufacturer of your MINI.
If MINI High Performance Synthetic Oil is not
available, you can add small quantities of
another synthetic oil in between oil changes.
Only use oils with the API SM specification or
higher.
If you have any further questions regard-
ing MINI High Performance Synthetic Oil
or approved synthetic oils, your MINI Dealer will
be glad to advise you.<
You can also call MINI USA at
1-800-831-1117 or visit the website
www.miniusa.com to obtain this information.
Viscosity grades
Viscosity is a measure of an oil's flow rating and
is categorized in SAE classes.
The correct SAE grade for your MINI is deter-
mined by the climatic conditions of the region in
which you normally drive your MINI.
The approved oils are SAE 0W-40, 0W-30,
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These oils can be used for driving at all outside
temperatures.
Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling system
when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant
can cause burns.<
Coolant consists of half water and half additive.
Not all commercially available additives are suit-
able for your MINI. Your MINI Dealer knows
which additives are suitable and will be glad to
advise you.
Only use suitable additives, otherwise
engine damage may result. Because addi-
tives are harmful to your health, it is important
to follow the instructions on the containers.<
Comply with the appropriate environmen-
tal protection regulations when disposing
of coolant additives.<
Checking coolant level
1. Do not open the bonnet until the engine has
cooled down.
2. Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little
counterclockwise to allow any accumulated
pressure to escape, then continue turning to
open.
3. The coolant level is correct if it is between
the Min and Max markings.
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Under the bonnet
108
4. If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant up to
the specified level; do not overfill.
5. Turn the cap until there is an audible click.
6. Have the reason for the coolant loss elimi-
nated as soon as possible.
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109
Maintenance
MINI Maintenance System
The MINI Maintenance System supports the
preservation of the traffic and operating safety
of your MINI. The objective is to optimize efforts
with respect to minimal vehicle maintenance
costs.
If and when you come to sell your MINI, a com-
prehensive record of servicing will prove a signif-
icant benefit.
Condition Based Service CBS
Sensors and special algorithms take the different
driving conditions of your MINI into account.
Condition Based Service uses this to determine
the current and future service requirements. By
letting you define a service and maintenance
regimen that reflects your own individual
requirements, the system builds the basis for
trouble-free driving.
In the tachometer, you can have the remaining
times or distances for selected maintenance
tasks and any legally prescribed dates displayed,
page 53.
Service data in the remote control
Your vehicle continuously stores service-
requirement information in the remote control
while you are driving. Your MINI Dealer can read
out this data from the remote control unit, and
propose an optimized maintenance approach.
Whenever you take your car in for servicing you
should therefore hand your MINI Dealer the
remote control unit that you last used.
Make sure that the date in the tachometer
is always set correctly, page 55; otherwise
the effectiveness of Condition Based Service CBS
is not assured.<
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models and Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian
models
Please consult your Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet for US models and Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models for
additional information on service requirements.
The manufacturer of the MINI recom-
mends that you have service and repair
operations performed at your MINI Dealer.
Take the time to ensure that these service pro-
cedures are confirmed by entries in your vehi-
cle's Service and Warranty Information Booklet
for US models and Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models. These entries ver-
ify that your vehicle has received the specified
regular maintenance.<
Socket for Onboard
Diagnosis OBD
Primary components that make up exhaust
emissions can be checked by a device via the
OBD socket.
This socket is located to the left of the driver's
side, on the bottom of the instrument panel.
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110
Exhaust emission values
The warning lamps come on. The
exhaust emission values have turned
poor and there is a danger of engine
damage. You can continue your jour-
ney, but moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the car checked as soon as possi-
ble.
Under certain circumstances, one of the lamps
will flash or light up continuously. This indicates
excessive misfiring or a malfunction in the
engine. If this happens, reduce your speed and
visit the nearest MINI Dealer as soon as possible.
Severe misfiring can quickly lead to serious dam-
age of emissions-related components, espe-
cially the catalytic converter. In addition,
mechanical engine components can become
damaged.
If the fuel filler cap is not properly tightened, the
OBD system may conclude that fuel vapors are
escaping, causing an indicator to light up. If the
filler cap is then tightened, the indicator should
go out within a few days.
Event data recorders
Your vehicle may be equipped with one or sev-
eral measuring or diagnostic modules or a
device for recording or sending certain vehicle
data or information.
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111
Care
Car-care products
Regular cleaning and care helps to maintain the
value of your MINI.
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends
using manufacturer-approved products to clean
and care for your vehicle.
MINI Service would be pleased to advise you on
cleaning and care products and services for your
MINI.
The ingredients of original MINI CareProd-
ucts have been tested, and the products
have been tested in the laboratory and in prac-
tice. They offer optimum care and protection for
your vehicle.<
Do not use any cleansers containing alco-
hol or solvents as these may cause dam-
age.<
Cleaning agents may contain hazardous
or health-damaging substances. Follow
the warning and hazard instructions on the
packaging. For interior cleaning, always open
the doors or windows of the vehicle.
Do not use any products that are not intended
for cleaning the vehicle.<
External care
Washing your vehicle
Especially during the winter months the
vehicle should be frequently washed. Dirt
and road salt can damage the vehicle.<
After washing the vehicle, apply the
brakes briefly to dry them, otherwise
water can reduce braking efficiency over the
short term and the brake rotors can corrode.<
Car washes
Preference should be given to cloth car washes.
Do not use high-pressure car washes
because drops of water can penetrate
around the windows.<
Before driving into the car wash, check if the sys-
tem is suitable for your MINI. Observe the fol-
lowing points:
> Dimensions of the vehicle, page 143
> If necessary: Fold in the outside mirrors
(page 33)
> Maximum permissible tire width
Preparations for driving into the car wash:
> Unscrew the rod antenna.
> Deactivate the rain sensor
*
to prevent unin-
tentional wiping.
> Deactivate the rear windshield wiper and
protect it from damage. Ask the car wash
operator about measures that can be taken
to protect the wipers.
> Remove additional detachable body com-
ponents such as spoilers or telephone
antennas that could be damaged.
Automatic transmission
Before driving into the car wash, make sure that
the vehicle can roll:
1. Place the remote control, even with conve-
nient access, in the ignition lock.
2. Move the selector lever to position N.
3. Release the parking brake.
4. Switch off the engine.
5. Insert the remote control in the ignition lock
so that the vehicle can roll.
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112
Steam jets/high-pressure washers
When using steam jets or high-pressure
washers, ensure that you maintain a suffi-
cient distance to the vehicle and do not exceed a
maximum temperature of 1407/606.
If the distance is too close, the pressure too high,
or the temperature too high, parts of the vehicle
can be damaged, or water can penetrate.
Observe the operating instructions for high-
pressure washers.<
Do not spray sensors such as Park Dis-
tance Control with high-pressure washers
for a long time or at a distance of less than
1ft/30cm.<
Manual washing
Use a great deal of water and, if necessary, car
shampoo when washing your car by hand. Clean
the vehicle with a sponge or a washing brush
applying a slight amount of pressure.
Before cleaning the windshield, deacti-
vate the rain sensor or turn off the ignition
to prevent unintentional wiping.<
Observe local regulations regarding wash-
ing vehicles by hand.<
Headlamps
Do not wipe dry and do not use abrasive or cor-
rosive cleaning agents. Remove dirt and con-
tamination, such as insects, by soaking with
shampoo and then washing with plenty of
water.
Do not remove accumulated ice and snow with
an ice scraper; use window de-icers instead.
Windows
Clean the outside and inside of the windows and
mirrors with a window cleaner.
Do not clean the mirrors with cleaners
containing quartz.<
Wiper blades
Clean with soapy water and change regularly to
prevent the formation of streaks
Wax, preservatives and dirt on the windows
cause streaks when the windshield wipers
are on, and can cause premature wear of the
wiper blades and interfere with the rain sensor.<
Paintwork, care
Regular care contributes greatly to driving safety
and value retention.
In some regions, environmental factors can
affect the vehicle paintwork and damage it. It is
therefore important to adjust the frequency and
extent of vehicle care correspondingly.
Immediately remove aggressive materials such as
spilled fuel, oil, grease, brake fluid, tree sap or bird
droppings to prevent damage to the paintwork.
Removing paintwork damage
Depending on the severity of the damage,
immediately repair stone damage or
scratches to prevent rusting.<
The manufacturer of the MINI recommends
repairing paint damage professionally according
to factory specifications with original MINI
paints.
Preservation
Preservation is necessary when water no longer
beads on the clean paint surface. To preserve
the paint, only use preservatives that contain
carnauba or synthetic waxes.
Rubber seals
Only treat with water or rubber care products.
Do not use silicon sprays or other silicon-
containing care products on rubber seals,
otherwise noise and damage could occur.<
Chrome parts*
Carefully clean vehicle parts such as the radiator
grill and door handles with copious quantities of
water and, if necessary, a shampoo additive,
especially when contaminated with road salt.
For additional treatment, use chrome polish.
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Light-alloy wheels*
The system produces brake dust that collects on
the light alloy wheels. Clean them regularly with
acid-free wheel cleaner.
Do not use aggressive, acid-containing
highly alkaline or abrasive cleansers or
steam jets above 1407/606 as they may
cause damage.<
External sensors
Keep the outside sensors on the vehicle
such as the Park Distance Control clean
and ice-free to ensure that they function prop-
erly.<
Internal care
Upholstery/Fabrics
Regularly use a vacuum cleaner to remove sur-
face dirt.
In case of serious spots such as liquid stains, use
a soft sponge or lint-free microfiber cloth and
suitable interior cleaners. Observe the instruc-
tions on the packaging.
Clean upholstery up to the seams. Do not
rub forcefully.<
Velcro fasteners on pants or other items of
clothing can damage seat covers. Make
sure that all Velcro fasteners are closed.<
Leather/leather coverings*
The leather
processed by the manufac-
turer of your MINI is a high-quality natural
product. Light variations in the grain is one of
the typical properties of natural leather.<
Dust and road grit in the pores and folds of the
leather have an abrasive effect, leading to
increased wear and causing the leather surface
to become brittle prematurely. The leather
should therefore be regularly cleaned with a
cloth or a vacuum cleaner.
Especially when the leather has a light color, it
should be cleaned regularly since it tends to get
heavily soiled.
Treat the leather twice a year using a leather
lotion since dirt and grease will gradually attack
the leather's protective layer.
Carpets/floor mats*
You can use a vacuum cleaner on carpets and
floor mats, or clean them with interior cleaners
when they are very dirty.
Floor mats can be removed to be cleaned. When
putting the floor mats, back in, make sure that
the seat rails do not extend over the floor mats
as this may damage them.
Lint on floor mats arises from manufacturing
and can be removed by repeated vacuuming.
Interior plastic parts
These include:
> Plastic surfaces
> Lamp glass
> Display panes
> Matte parts
Only clean with water and, if necessary, solvent-
free plastic cleaners.
Do not use solvents such as alcohol, lac-
quer thinner, cold cleaners, fuel, or similar,
as these will damage the surfaces.<
Decorative strips*
Only clean decorative strips with moist cloths.
Wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Safety belts
Do not use cleansers since they can
destroy the fabric.<
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Care
114
Displays
To clean displays such as radios or display ele-
ments, use a display cleaning cloth or a soft,
non-scratching, lint-free cloth.
Avoid pressing too hard when cleaning
the display as this can cause damage.<
Do not use chemical or abrasive house-
hold cleaning agents. Keep fluids of any
kind away from the device. Surfaces or electrical
components may otherwise become corroded
or damaged.<
CD/DVD drives
Do not use cleaning CDs as this could
damage parts of the drive.<
Vehicle storage
If you are not going to drive your car for more
than three months, please ask for advice from
your MINI dealer or a workshop that works
according to MINI manufacturer specifications.
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115
Replacing components
Onboard tool kit
Your vehicle comes with an onboard tool kit that
varies with the equipment version; it is stored
underneath the level load floor.
> Mobility System with onboard tool kit and
tire change set
*
119
> Tire change set with onboard tool kit for
space-saver spare tire 121
Wiper blades
Changing the front wiper blades
1. Fold up the wiper arm.
2. Position the wiper blade horizontally.
3. Press the securing spring, arrow.
4. Unhook the wiper blade toward the wind-
shield.
5. Pull the wiper blade past the wiper arm
toward the top.
6. Insert the new wiper blade.
7. Press into position until you hear it engage.
To avoid damage, make sure that the
wiper arms are against the windshield
before you open the bonnet.<
Changing the rear wiper blade
1. Fold out the wiper arm and hold it.
2. Press together the locking spring, arrow 1,
and fold out the wiper blade.
3. Pull the wiper blade away from and out of
the catch mechanism, arrow 2.
4. Press the new wiper blade into the fixture
until it engages audibly.
Lamps and bulbs
Lamps and bulbs make an essential contribution
to vehicle safety. They should, therefore, be
handled carefully. The manufacturer of your
MINI recommends having your MINI Dealer per-
form any work that you do not feel competent to
perform yourself or that is not described here.
Never touch the glass of new bulbs with
your bare fingers, as even minute
amounts of contamination will burn into the
bulb's surface and reduce its service life. Use a
clean tissue, cloth or something similar, or hold
the bulb by its base.<
You can obtain a selection of replacement bulbs
at your MINI Dealer.
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116
When working on electrical systems,
always begin by switching off the con-
sumer in question, otherwise short circuits could
result. To avoid possible injury or equipment
damage when replacing bulbs, observe any
instructions provided by the bulb manufac-
turer.<
Caring for headlamps, refer to page 112.
For any bulb replacement not described
below, contact a MINI Dealer or a work-
shop that has specially trained personnel work-
ing in accordance with the specifications of the
MINI manufacturer.<
For checking and adjusting headlamp aim,
please contact your MINI Dealer.<
Light-emitting diodes LEDs
Light-emitting diodes installed behind translu-
cent lenses serve as the light sources for many of
the controls and displays in your vehicle. These
light-emitting diodes are related to conven-
tional laser diodes, and legislation defines them
as Class 1 light-emitting diodes.
Do not remove the covers or expose the
eyes directly to the unfiltered light source
for several hours, otherwise this could cause irri-
tation to the retina.<
Bi-Xenon lamps*
The service life of these bulbs is very long and
the probability of failure very low, provided that
they are not switched on and off an excessive
number of times. If a xenon lamp fails neverthe-
less, switch on the fog lamps and continue the
journey with great care, provided that local leg-
islation does not prohibit this.
Have any work on the xenon lamp system,
including bulb replacement, carried out
only by a MINI Dealer or a workshop that has
specially trained personnel working in accor-
dance with the specifications of the MINI manu-
facturer. Due to high voltage, there is a risk of
fatal injury if work on the xenon lamps is carried
out improperly.<
Halogen low beams and high beams
H13 bulb, 60/55 watts
The H13 bulb is pressurized. Therefore,
wear safety glasses and protective gloves.
Otherwise there is a risk of injury if the bulb is
damaged.<
Be careful when installing the cover, oth-
erwise leaks could occur and cause dam-
age to the headlamp system.<
Accessing the lamp from the engine
compartment
The low-beam/high-beam bulb can be changed
from the engine compartment.
Removing the cover:
1. Press the tab.
2. Flip open the cover and take it out of the
holder.
Follow the same steps in reverse order to reat-
tach the cover.
Be careful when installing the cover, oth-
erwise leaks could occur and cause dam-
age to the headlamp system.<
Replacing the bulb
1. Turn the lamp counterclockwise, arrow 1,
and remove it, arrow 2.
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117
2. Push on the catch, arrow 1, and unplug the
connector, arrow 2.
3. To insert the new bulb and replace the
cover, proceed in reverse order.
Turn signal indicators, parking lamps,
roadside parking lamps and fog lamps
Accessing the lamps via the wheel well
1 Turn signal
2 Parking/roadside parking/fog lamps
Replacing a turn signal bulb
21 watt bulb, PY 21 W
1. Turn in the wheel.
2. Remove cover 1.
To do so, turn the cover counterclockwise.
3. Remove the inside cover.
To do so, turn the cover counterclockwise.
4. Screw out the bulb counterclockwise.
5. To insert the new bulb and replace the cov-
ers, proceed in reverse order.
Replacing a parking/roadside parking
lamp bulb
5watt bulb, W5W
1. Turn in the wheel.
2. Remove cover 2.
To do so, turn the cover counterclockwise.
3. Screw out the upper bulb counterclockwise.
4. To insert the new bulb and replace the
cover, proceed in reverse order.
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118
Replacing a fog lamp bulb
H8 bulb, 35 watts
1. Turn in the wheel.
2. Remove cover 2.
To do so, turn the cover counterclockwise.
3. Screw out the lower bulb counterclockwise.
4. To insert the new bulb and replace the
cover, proceed in reverse order.
Side turn signal indicators
5 watt bulb, W 5 W
1. Push the lamp with the ventilation grate for-
ward and remove.
2. Screw out the bulb holder counterclockwise.
3. Pull out and replace the bulb.
4. To insert the new bulb and replace the
cover, proceed in reverse order.
Tail lamps
1 Brake lamp/tail lamp
21 watt/5 watt bulb, W 5 W
2 Turn signal lamp
21 watt bulb, P 21 W
3 Rear fog lamp
*
P 21 W
4 Backup lamp
21 watt bulb, P 21 W
Changing
1. Using the screwdriver from the onboard tool
kit, remove the screw at the top.
2. Swing out the tail lamp and remove it
toward the top.
3. Pull off the cable connector 1, unlock the
bulb holder, arrow 2, and remove it,
arrow 3.
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119
4. Screw out the respective bulb counterclock-
wise.
5. To insert the new bulb and reinstall the tail
lamp, proceed in reverse order.
Rear fog lamp*
21 watt bulb, P 21 W
The rear fog lamp is located in the left tail
lamp (see Tail lamps page 118.<
License plate lamps
5 watt bulb, C 5 W
1. Using a screwdriver, push the lamp to the
left in the tab of the lamp housing, arrow 1.
2. Remove the lamp, arrow 2.
3. Replace the bulb.
4. Insert the lamp.
Center brake lamp
This lamp uses LED technology for operation. In
the event of a malfunction, contact your MINI
Dealer or a workshop that has specially trained
personnel working in accordance with the spec-
ifications of your MINI manufacturer.
Repairing a flat tire
Safety measures in the event of a break-
down:
Park the vehicle as far as possible from moving
traffic and switch on the hazard warning flash-
ers.
Turn the steering wheel until the front wheels
are in the straight-ahead position and engage
the steering wheel lock. Engage the parking
brake and shift into 1st or reverse gear or place
the selector lever in position P.
All passengers should be outside the vehicle and
in a safe place, e.g. behind a guardrail.
Erect a warning triangle or warning flasher at the
appropriate distance if necessary. Comply with
all safety guidelines and regulations.<
In the event of a flat tire, different procedures
should be followed depending on the equip-
ment included in your vehicle:
> MINI Mobility System, refer to the following
section
> Run-Flat Tires, page 103
> Tire change with space-saver spare tire,
page 121
MINI Mobility System with onboard tool
kit and tire change set*
The MINI Mobility System with tire change set
and onboard tool kit is located under the floor
mat or the level load floor in the cargo bay.
1 Compressor, hose with manometer and plug
for cigarette lighter socket
2 Filling hose
3 Wheel stud wrench
*
4 Vehicle jack
*
5 Torx insert bit for screwdriver
6 Flat screwdriver/Phillips screwdriver, towing
eyelet
7 Hub cover remover
8 Filling canister
Use of the MINI Mobility System may be
ineffective if the tire puncture measures
approx. 1/8 in/4 mm or more. Contact the near-
est MINI Dealer if the tire cannot be made driv-
able with the MINI Mobility System.<
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Replacing components
120
Liquid sealant
1 Filling hose
2 Filling canister
Filling
1. Shake the filling canister.
2. Screw the filling hose onto the filling canis-
ter.
3. Unscrew the dust cap from the valve of the
defective tire.
4. Screw out the valve core with the valve
remover. The valve remover is located in a
package with the filling hose.
5. Remove the cap from the filling hose.
6. Push the filling hose onto the tire valve.
7. Hold the filling canister with the cap down
and squeeze.
8. Squeeze the entire contents of the canister
into the tire.
9. Remove the filling hose.
10. Screw the valve core into the tire valve with
the valve remover.
In the event of a lost or dirty valve core
you will find another valve core in the
package with the filling hose.
Remember that the liquid canister must be
replaced every four years if the equipment has
not been used.<
Compressor
1 Hose with manometer
2 Compressor
3 Connector for power supply
Reinflating the tire
1. Screw hose 1 with manometer onto the tire
valve.
2. Insert connector 3 into the lighter socket in
the interior of the vehicle, page 81.
3. Switch on compressor 2.
4. Inflate the tire to at least 26 psi/180 kPa and
at most 36 psi/250 kPa.
To check the air pressure, shut off the device
for a short time.
Do not run the compressor for longer
than 6 minutes, otherwise the device
will overheat and possibly be damaged.<
If an air pressure of 26 psi/180 kPa is not
reached:
1. Unscrew hose 1 and drive the vehicle for-
ward and backward about 33 ft/10 m to dis-
tribute the liquid sealant in the tires evenly.
2. Repeat the procedure.
If an air pressure of 26 psi/180 kPa still can-
not be reached, the tire is too severely dam-
aged. Please contact the nearest MINI Dealer.<
Distributing liquid sealant
Immediately drive for approx. 10 minutes, so
that the liquid sealant is uniformly distributed.
Do not exceed speeds of 40 mph/
60 km/h.
If possible, do not drop below 10 mph/
20 km/h.<
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Checking tire inflation pressure
1. After driving for approx. 10 minutes, pull
over at a suitable location.
2. Screw the hose with manometer back onto
the tire valve.
3. Check the tire inflation pressure.
The tire pressure must be at least
18 psi/130 kPa. If it is not, do not con-
tinue driving.<
If a tire pressure of at least 18 psi/130 kPa is dis-
played:
1. Switch on the compressor. Correct the tire
inflation pressure to the specified value,
page 96.
2. Replace the tire as soon as possible.
Driving on
Do not exceed the permitted maximum
speed of 50 mph/80 km/h; doing so may
result in an accident.<
Replace the defective tire as soon as possible
and have the new wheel/tire assembly bal-
anced.
Have the MINI Mobility System refilled.
Tire change set
When changing a tire, always observe the safety
measures and the procedure for changing tires
described below.
In case of a flat tire the tire change set is
not needed due to the availability of the
MINI Mobility System.<
Changing wheels
Space-saver spare tire*
To change a space-saver spare tire, proceed as
follows:
> Remove space-saver spare tire, page 121
> Prepare for tire change, page 122
> Jack up vehicle, page 122
> Mount space-saver spare tire, page 122
> Tighten lug bolts, page 123
> Drive with space-saver spare tire, page 122
Tire change set for a space-saver spare
tire*
In vehicles with the space-saver spare tire, the
tire change set with the onboard tool kit is
located beneath the floor mat or level load floor
in the cargo bay.
1 Folding chock and cover for defective wheel
2 Vehicle jack
3 Wheel stud wrench
4 Hub cover remover
5 Flat screwdriver/Phillips screwdriver
6 Torx insert bit for screwdriver
7 Towing eye
The onboard tool kit includes a pouch with a
plastic bag in which you can place the damaged
wheel.
Removing the space-saver spare tire
The space-saver spare tire is located under the
tire change set in the cargo bay.
1. Fold up the floor mat.
2. Unscrew the nut, arrow, and remove the
space-saver spare tire.
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Driving with the space-saver spare tire
Drive cautiously and do not exceed a
speed of 50 mph/80 km/h. Changes may
occur in vehicle handling such as lower track sta-
bility during braking, longer braking distances
and changes in self-steering properties when
close to the handling limit. These properties are
more noticeable with winter tires.<
Only one space-saver spare tire may be
mounted at one time. Mount a wheel and
tire of the original size as soon as possible, to
avoid any safety risks.<
Check the tire inflation pressure at the ear-
liest opportunity and correct it if neces-
sary. Replace the defective tire as soon as possi-
ble and have the new wheel/tire assembly
balanced.<
Preparing for a tire change
Observe the safety precautions regarding
flat tires on page 119.<
Additional safety measures when chang-
ing tires:
Only change the tire when parked on a surface
that is level, firm and not slippery.
The vehicle or the jack could slip sideways on
soft or slippery support surfaces, such as snow,
ice, flagstones, etc.
Do not use a wooden block or similar object as a
support base for the jack, as this would prevent
it from extending to its full support height and
reduce its load-carrying capacity.
Do not lie under the vehicle or start the engine
when the vehicle is supported by the jack; other-
wise there is a risk of fatal injury.<
1. Place the foldable chock
*
behind the front
wheel on the other side of the vehicle or in
front of the wheel if the vehicle is on an
incline. If the wheel is changed on a surface
with a more severe slope, take additional
precautions to secure the vehicle from rolling.
2. Uncover the lug bolts if necessary.
If the wheel is equipped with a hub cover,
pry it off using the screwdriver from the tire
change kit.
3. Loosen the lug bolts by a half turn.
Jacking up the vehicle
The vehicle jack is designed for changing
wheels only. Do not attempt to raise
another vehicle model with it or to raise any load
of any kind. To do so could cause accidents and
personal injury.<
1. Place the jack at the jacking point closest to
the wheel.
The jack base must be perpendicular to the
surface beneath the jacking point.
2. During jacking up, insert the jack head in the
square recess of the jacking point.
3. Jack the vehicle up until the wheel you are
changing is raised off the ground.
Mounting the space-saver spare tire
1. Unscrew the lug bolts and remove the wheel.
2. Remove accumulations of mud or dirt from
the mounting surfaces of the wheel and
hub. Clean the lug bolts.
3. Lift the new wheel into place.
4. Screw at least two lug bolts finger-tight into
opposite bolt holes.
5. Screw in the remaining bolts.
6. Tighten all the lug bolts firmly in a diagonal
pattern.
7. Lower the vehicle.
8. Remove the jack.
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Tightening the lug bolts
Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal pattern.
Immediately have the wheels checked
with a calibrated torque wrench to ensure
that the lug bolts are firmly seated. Otherwise,
incorrectly tightened lug bolts can present a
safety hazard.<
Tightening torque: 103.3 lb ft or 140 Nm.
Replace the defective tire as soon as possible
and have the new wheel/tire assembly bal-
anced.
Vehicle battery
Have any work on the battery, including
battery replacement, carried out only by a
MINI Dealer or a workshop that has specially
trained personnel working in accordance with
the specifications of the MINI manufacturer.<
Battery care
The battery is 100% maintenance-free, the
electrolyte will last for the life of the battery
when the vehicle is operated in a temperate cli-
mate.
Charging the battery
Only charge the battery in the vehicle when the
engine is off. Connections, refer to Jump starting
on page 125.
Disposal
After replacing old batteries, return the
used batteries to your MINI Dealer or to a
recycling point. Maintain the battery in an
upright position for transport and storage.
Always secure the battery against tipping over
during transport.<
Power failure
After a temporary power loss, some equipment
may not be fully functional and may require ini-
tialization. Individual settings are also lost and
must be reprogrammed:
> Time and date
These values must be updated, page 54.
> Radio
Stations must be stored again, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual for Radio.
> Glass sunroof, electric
It may only be possible to raise the sunroof,
if applicable. The system must be initialized.
Contact your nearest MINI Dealer.
Fuses
Do not attempt to repair a blown fuse or
replace it with a fuse of a different color or
Ampere rating. To do this could cause a fire in
the vehicle resulting from a circuit overload.
Have the fuse changed only by a MINI Dealer or
a workshop that has specially trained personnel
working in accordance with the specifications of
the MINI manufacturer.<
A fuse allocation diagram is located on the inside
of the fuse box cover panels.
In the engine compartment
Opening the cover
Press the latch.
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Replacing components
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In the vehicle interior
On the right side of the footwell.
Opening the cover
Press out at the recess.
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Giving and receiving assistance
Roadside Assistance
The Roadside Assistance service is there to assist
you around the clock in the event of a breakdown,
including on weekends and public holidays.
The phone numbers of the Roadside Assistance
in your home country can be found in the Con-
tact brochure.
First aid pouch*
Some of the articles contained in the first aid pouch
have a limited service life. Therefore, check the
expiration dates of the contents regularly and
replace any items in good time, if necessary.
The first aid pouch is located on the cargo bay
floor by the left side trim panel or under the level
load floor.
Warning triangle*
In the cargo bay under the loading sill.
Open the center lock to take it out.
Jump starting
If the car's own battery is flat, your MINI's engine
can be started by connecting two jumper cables
to another vehicle's battery. You can also use
the same method to help start another vehicle.
Only use jumper cables with fully-insulated
clamp handles.
Do not touch any electrically live parts
when the engine is running, or a fatal acci-
dent may occur. Carefully adhere to the follow-
ing sequence, both to prevent damage to one or
both vehicles, and to guard against possible per-
sonal injuries.<
Preparation
1. Check whether the battery of the other vehi-
cle has a voltage of 12 volts and approxi-
mately the same capacitance in Ah. This
information can be found on the battery.
2. Switch off the engine of the support vehicle.
3. Switch off any consumers in both vehicles.
There must not be any contact between
the bodies of the two vehicles, otherwise
there is a danger of shorting.<
Connecting jumper cables
Connect the jumper cables in the correct
order, so that no sparks which could cause
injury occur.<
1. Open the battery cover in the engine com-
partment to access the positive terminal of
your MINI.
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126
2. Attach one terminal clamp of the plus/+
jumper cable to the positive terminal of the
battery or to a starting-aid terminal of the
vehicle providing assistance.
3. Attach the second terminal clamp of the
plus/+ jumper cable to the positive terminal
of the battery or a starting-aid terminal of
the vehicle to be started.
4. Attach one terminal clamp of the minus/–
jumper cable to the negative terminal of the
battery or to an engine or body ground of
the assisting vehicle.
Body ground in MINI:
5. Attach the second terminal clamp of the
minus/– jumper cable to the negative termi-
nal of the battery or to the engine or body
ground of the vehicle to be started.
Starting the engine
1. Start the engine of the donor vehicle and
allow it to run for a few minutes at slightly
increased idle speed.
2. Start the engine of the other vehicle in the
usual manner.
If the first start attempt is not successful,
wait a few minutes before another attempt
in order to allow the discharged battery to
recharge.
3. Let the engines run for a few minutes.
4. Disconnect the jumper cables by reversing
the above connecting sequence.
If necessary, have the battery checked and
recharged.
Never use spray fluids to start the
engine.<
Tow-starting, towing
away
Observe the applicable laws and regula-
tions for tow-starting and towing vehi-
cles.<
Do not transport any passengers other
than the driver in a vehicle that is being
towed.<
Using a tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting must always be carried
in the car. It can be screwed in at the front or
rear of the MINI.
It is stored in the onboard tool kit in the cargo
bay underneath the cover on the right-hand
side, page 115.
Use only the tow fitting provided with the
vehicle and screw it all the way in. Use the
tow fitting for towing on paved roads only. Avoid
lateral loading of the tow fitting, e.g. do not lift
the vehicle by the tow fitting. Otherwise the tow
fitting and the vehicle could be damaged.<
Access to screw thread
Push out the cover of the towing eye out of the
recess in the bumper.
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Front
Rear
Being towed
Make sure that the ignition is switched on,
refer to page 38, otherwise the low
beams, tail lamps, turn signal indicators and
windshield wipers may be unavailable. Do not
tow the vehicle with just the rear axle raised, as
this would allow the steering to turn. <
There is no power assist while the engine is off.
Thus, braking and steering will require increased
effort.
Switch on the hazard warning flashers, depend-
ing on local regulations.
Manual transmission
Gearshift lever in neutral position.
Automatic transmission
Tow vehicles with automatic transmission
only with a tow truck or with the front
wheels lifted; otherwise the transmission can be
damaged.<
Towing with a tow bar
The towing vehicle must not be lighter
than the towed vehicle, otherwise it may
be impossible to maintain control.<
The tow fittings used should be on the same side
on both vehicles. Should it prove impossible to
avoid mounting the tow bar at an angle, please
observe the following:
> Clearance and maneuvering capability will
be sharply limited during cornering.
> The tow bar will generate lateral forces if it is
attached offset.
Attach the tow bar to the tow fittings only,
as attaching it to other parts of the vehicle
could result in damage.<
Towing with a tow rope
When starting off in the towing vehicle, make
sure that the tow rope is taut.
To avoid jerking and the associated
stresses on vehicle components when
towing, always use nylon ropes or nylon straps.
Attach the tow rope to the tow fittings only, as
attaching it to other parts of the vehicle could
result in damage.<
Towing with a tow truck
Have the MINI transported with a tow truck with
a so-called lift bar or on a flat bed.
Do not lift the vehicle by a tow fitting or
body and chassis parts, otherwise damage
may result.<
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128
Tow-starting
Avoid tow-starting the vehicle whenever possi-
ble; instead, jump-start the engine, page 125.
Vehicles with a catalytic converter should only
be tow-started when the engine is cold, vehicles
with an automatic transmission cannot be tow-
started at all.
1. Switch on hazard warning flashers, comply
with local regulations.
2. Switch on the ignition, page 38.
3. Shift into 3rd gear.
4. Have the vehicle tow-started with the clutch
completely depressed and then slowly
release the clutch. After the engine starts,
immediately depress the clutch completely
again.
5. Stop at a suitable location, remove the tow
bar or rope and switch off the hazard warn-
ing flashers.
6. Have the vehicle checked.
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Indicator and warning lamps
Indicator and warning lamps can light up in var-
ious combinations and colors in indicator area 1
or 2. See the table for information on causes and
how to react. Note whether a lamp comes on
alone or in combination with another. Some
lamps can light up in different colors. Corre-
sponding distinctions are made in the text.
1 2 Cause What to do
Turn signals
High beams/headlamp flasher
switched on
Fog lamps switched on
Rear fog lamp switched on
Fasten safety belts Fasten your safety belt, refer also to
page 32.
Indication in US models
Parking brake applied Release the parking brake.
Indication in Canadian models
Parking brake applied Release the parking brake.
Danger of icy roads Drive cautiously, refer also to page 48.
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Indicator and warning lamps
130
Lights up briefly:
Approx. 2.1 US gallons/8 l of fuel
remain in the tank
Remains on:
Cruising range is no more than 50 km,
page 49
Engine refuses to start Depress the brake or clutch in order to
start the engine, page 38.
Ignition switched on and driver's door
open
Switch off the ignition, page 38, or close
the driver's door.
Lamps still on
Roadside parking lamps on
Door open
Clubdoor open
Splitdoor open
Bonnet open
Gas cap missing or loose Make sure that the gas cap is correctly
positioned and close it until it audibly
clicks. Do not jam the strap between the
gas cap and the vehicle.
Window washer fluid level too low Add washer fluid as soon as possible,
page 45.
1 2 Cause What to do
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Lights up in yellow:
The engine will start the next time the
start/stop button is touched, possibly
without the brake or clutch being
depressed
Remote control malfunctioning or, in
cars with convenient access, not
detected
The engine cannot be started. Have the
remote control checked, if necessary.
Battery in remote control discharged Use the remote control for a longer
journey or, in cars with convenient
access, replace the battery.
Belt tensioners and/or airbag system
failed
Have the system checked immediately.
Fasten the safety belts anyway.
Power steering failed You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Steering response will be
markedly different. Have the system
checked without delay.
Lights up:
Emergency calling system failed or
malfunctioning
Have the system checked as soon as
possible.
Lights up in red:
Engine malfunction Stop the car and switch off the
engine. You cannot continue your
journey. Contact your MINI Dealer.
Lights up in yellow:
Full engine power no longer available You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the engine checked as
soon as possible.
Indicator lamp 1 flashes:
Engine malfunction under high load.
High engine load will result in damage
to the catalytic converter
You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the vehicle checked with-
out delay.
1 2 Cause What to do
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Indicator and warning lamps
132
Indicator lamp 1 comes on:
Engine malfunction with adverse effect
on exhaust emissions
You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the car checked as soon
as possible.
Lights up in red:
Engine overheating Carefully bring the car to a stop, switch
off the engine and allow it to cool down.
Do not open the bonnet, otherwise
there would be a risk of injury by scald-
ing. Contact your MINI Dealer.
Lights up in yellow:
Engine too hot Continue driving at more moderate
speed so that the engine can cool
down. Have the engine checked with-
out delay if the situation reoccurs.
Lights up in red:
Battery is no longer being charged.
Alternator malfunction
Switch off all unnecessary electrical con-
sumers. Have the battery checked with-
out delay.
Lights up in yellow:
Battery charge level very low, battery
aged or not securely connected
Have the battery checked as soon as
possible.
Indication in US models
Parking brake applied
Indication in Canadian models
Parking brake applied
1 2 Cause What to do
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Indication in US models
Lights up in red:
Brake fluid level too low Brake pedal travel may be markedly
longer. Stop immediately. Contact the
nearest MINI Dealer.
Lights up in yellow:
Hill Start Assist failed. The car will not be
held in place after the brake is released
Have the system checked as soon as
possible.
Indication in Canadian models
Lights up in red:
Brake fluid level too low Brake pedal travel may be markedly
longer. Stop immediately. Contact the
nearest MINI Dealer.
Lights up in yellow:
Hill Start Assist failed. The car will not be
held in place after the brake is released
Have the system checked as soon as
possible.
Indication in US models
Brake pads worn Have the condition of the brake pads
checked without delay.
Indication in Canadian models
Brake pads worn Have the condition of the brake pads
checked without delay.
Indication in US models
Vehicle electronics failed You cannot continue your journey. Con-
tact your MINI Dealer.
1 2 Cause What to do
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Indicator and warning lamps
134
Indication
*
in Canadian models
Vehicle electronics failed You cannot continue your journey. Con-
tact your MINI Dealer.
Indication
*
in Canadian models
Vehicle electronics failed You cannot continue your journey. Con-
tact your MINI Dealer.
Lights up in red: Have the system in question checked
without delay.
> Starter failed or
> ignition malfunctioning. Engine
restart only possible when brake
is depressed or
> lighting system failed. Low
beams/tail lamps and brake
lamps still operational. All other
lamps failed
The engine cannot be restarted.
Lights up in yellow:
> Control of the brake lamps failed
or
> fuel supply malfunctioning
You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the system in question
checked without delay.
Flashing:
Dynamic Stability Control DSC or
Dynamic Traction Control DTC is con-
trolling drive and braking forces, refer
also to page 57
Dynamic Traction Control activated
(see page 58)
The dynamic stability control (DSC) and
dynamic traction control (DTC) are
deactivated (see page 57)
Driving stability limited during accelera-
tion and cornering.
Driving style must be adjusted.
1 2 Cause What to do
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135
The Dynamic Stability Control DSC and
Dynamic Traction Control DTC have
failed.
Driving stability limited during accelera-
tion and cornering.
You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the system checked as
soon as possible.
Indication in US models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS and the Tire Pressure
Monitor, have failed, refer also to
page 57
Reduced braking and driving stability.
Drive cautiously and think well ahead.
Avoid braking with full force, driving on
rough tracks, and depressing the accel-
erator pedal to full throttle or kick-down
position. Have the system checked
immediately.
Indication
*
in Canadian models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS and the Flat Tire Monitor
or the Tire Pressure Monitor
*
, have
failed, refer also to page 57
Reduced braking and driving stability.
Drive cautiously and think well ahead.
Avoid braking with full force, driving on
rough tracks, and depressing the accel-
erator pedal to full throttle or kick-down
position. Have the system checked
immediately.
Indication
*
in Canadian models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS and the Flat Tire Monitor
or the Tire Pressure Monitor
*
, have
failed, refer also to page 57
Drive cautiously and think well ahead.
Avoid braking with full force, driving on
rough tracks, and depressing the accel-
erator pedal to full throttle or kick-down
position. Have the system checked
immediately.
1 2 Cause What to do
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Indicator and warning lamps
136
Vehicles with Flat Tire Monitor
*
Light up in yellow and red:
> Tire damage
Carefully bring the car to a stop.
Observe the information starting on
page 60.
> Flat Tire Monitor not initialized
Initialize Flat Tire Monitor, page 60.
Light up in yellow:
Flat Tire Monitor failed. Punctures are
not indicated
Have the system checked.
Vehicles with Tire Pressure Monitor
*
Light up in yellow and red:
There is a flat tire or substantial loss
in tire pressure
Carefully bring the car to a stop.
Observe the information starting on
page 62.
Vehicles with Tire Pressure Monitor
*
Light up in yellow:
Tire Pressure Monitor not initialized
Initialize the Tire Pressure Monitor,
page 63.
The small lamp flashes yellow and
then stays on, the large lamp lights
up in yellow:
Tire Pressure Monitor failed. Punctures
are not indicated
Have the system checked. Observe the
information starting on page 63.
1 2 Cause What to do
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137
Lights up in red:
> Transmission limp-home pro-
gram active with restricted range
of gears, possibly with reduced
acceleration
You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the system checked with-
out delay.
> Gears can be engaged without
depressing the brake
Always depress the brake to engage a
gear.
> Automatic selector lever locked Overriding the selector lever lock,
page 42.
Lights up in yellow: Have the system checked as soon as
possible.
> Automatic selector lever locked:
Selector lever locked in position P
with engine running and brake
depressed or
Overriding the selector lever lock,
page 42.
> brake signal malfunctioning: gear
can be engaged without depress-
ing the brake
To engage a gear while the vehicle is at
a standstill, always depress the brake.
Before leaving the vehicle, move the
selector lever to position P and switch
off the engine.
Lights up in red:
Transmission overheating Bring the car to a stop and move the
selector lever to position P. Allow the
transmission to cool down. You can
continue your journey, but moderate
your speed and exercise due caution.
Have the system checked if the situa-
tion reoccurs.
Lights up in yellow:
Transmission too hot Avoid high engine loads. You can con-
tinue your journey, but moderate your
speed and exercise due caution.
Selector lever position P not engaged.
Vehicle not prevented from rolling
1 2 Cause What to do
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Indicator and warning lamps
138
Selector lever position P not engaged.
Ignition cannot be switched off
Engage selector lever position P when
you wish to switch off the ignition,
page 38.
Lights up in red:
Electric steering wheel lock malfunc-
tioning
The engine can no longer be started. If
applicable, do not switch off the engine.
Contact your MINI Dealer.
Lights up in yellow:
Electric steering wheel lock engaged Move the steering wheel before starting
the engine.
Cruise control system failed Have the system checked.
Park Distance Control failed Have the system checked.
Bulb of exterior lighting system failed Have the exterior lighting checked as
soon as possible.
Low-beam headlamp or fog lamp
failed
Have the lamps checked as soon as
possible.
High-beam headlamp failed Have the high-beam headlamps
checked.
Rear fog lamp failed Have the rear fog lamp checked.
Headlamp beam throw adjustment
system failed
Have the headlamp beam throw
adjustment system checked.
Coolant level too low Add coolant immediately, page 107.
Engine oil pressure too low Stop immediately and switch off the
engine. You cannot continue your jour-
ney. Contact your MINI Dealer.
1 2 Cause What to do
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Lights up in red:
Service appointment overdue Arrange a service appointment.
Check service requirements, page 53.
Lights up in yellow:
Service due Arrange a service appointment.
Check service requirements, page 53.
No service due
Set speed limit exceeded
Time and date no longer correct Set the time and date, page 54.
1 2 Cause What to do
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REFERENCE
CONTROLS
DRIVING TIPS
MOBILITY
AT A GLANCE
REFERENCE
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Technical data
142
Technical data
Engine data
In the technical data, only the values that differ from the MINI Cooper S Clubman are shown for
the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman.
Cooper Cooper S John Cooper Works
Displacement cu in/
cmμ
97.5/
1,598
97.5/
1,598
97.5/
1,598
Number of cylinders 444
Maximum power
output
hp 118 172 208
At engine speed rpm 6,000 5,500 6,000
Maximum torque
with overboost
lb ft/
Nm
114/155
–
177/240
192/260
192/260
207/280
At engine speed
with overboost
rpm 4,250
–
1,600-5,000
1,700-4,500
1,850-5,600
2,000-5,100
Overboost briefly raises the maximum torque at high rates of acceleration, e.g. when passing.
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Technical data
144
Weights
Never exceed either the approved axle loads or
the gross vehicle weight.
Capacities
MINI COOPER MINI COOPER S
Curb weight, ready for travel, with all optional extras
> Manual transmission lbs/kg 2,723/1,235 2,855/1,295
> Automatic transmission lbs/kg 2,800/1,270 2,900/1,315
Approved gross weight
> Manual transmission lbs/kg 3,539/1,605 3,671/1,665
> Automatic transmission lbs/kg 3,616/1,640 3,715/1,685
Approved front axle load
> Manual transmission lbs/kg 1,830/830 1,918/870
> Automatic transmission lbs/kg 1,907/865 1,962/890
Approved rear axle load lbs/kg 1,830/830 1,841/835
Approved roof load capacity lbs/kg 165/75 165/75
Cargo bay capacity cu ft/l 9.2/260 - 32.8/930 9.2/260 - 32.8/930
US gal/US quarts Liters Notes
Fuel tank 13.2/– approx. 50 Fuel grade: page 95
including reserve of 2.1/– approx. 8
Window washer system incl. head-
lamp washer system –/4.8 approx. 4.5 For more details: page 45
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From A to Z
146
From A to Z
INDEX
A
Accessories, refer to Your
individual vehicle 4
Activated-charcoal filter for
automatic climate control 76
Additives
– coolant 107
– engine oil 107
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Air
conditioner 73
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Automatic
climate control 74
Air conditioner 72
Air conditioning mode
– air conditioner 73
– automatic climate control 74
– ventilation 76
Air distribution
– automatic 75
– individual 73
– manual 73
Air flow rate 73, 74
– air conditioning system 73
– automatic climate control 74
– heating, ventilation 73
Air outlets, refer to Air vents 72
Air pressure, checking, refer to
Tire inflation pressure 96
Air recirculation, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode 73, 75
Air supply
– air conditioner 73
– automatic climate control 74
– ventilation 76
Air vents 72
Airbags 65
– sitting safely 29
– warning lamp 66
Airing, refer to Ventilation 76
AKI, refer to Fuel
specifications 95
Alarm system 24
All-season tires, refer to Winter
tires 104
Ambient air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode 73, 75
Ambient lighting 71
Antenna, care 111
Antifreeze
– coolant 107
– washer fluid 45
Antilock Brake System ABS 58
Anti-theft alarm system, refer
to Alarm system 24
Anti-theft system 19
Approved axle loads, refer to
Weights 144
Approved engine oils 107
Approved gross vehicle
weight, refer to Weights 144
Armrest, refer to Center
armrest 79
Arrival time
– computer 50
Ashtray 81
Assistant systems, refer to
– Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 58
AUC Automatic recirculated-
air control 75
Audio device, external 79
AUTO program for automatic
climate control 75
Automatic
– air distribution 75
– air flow rate 75
– cruise control 45
– headlamp control 67
Automatic climate control 72
– automatic air distribution 75
Automatic recirculated-air
control AUC 75
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
– interlock 41
– overriding selector lever
lock 42
– shiftlock 41
– sport program 41
AUX-In, refer to External audio
device 79
Average fuel consumption 49
– setting the units 51
Average speed 50
Axle loads, refer to
Weights 144
B
Background lighting, refer to
Ambient lighting 71
Backrests, refer to Seats 29
Backup lamps
– replacing bulb 118
– replacing bulbs in MINI
Clubman 118
Band-aids, refer to First aid
pouch 125
Bar, refer to Tow-starting,
towing away 127
Battery 123
– charging 123
– disposal 27, 123
– jump starting 125
– temporary power failure 123
Battery renewal
– remote control 27
Being towed 127
Belt tensioner, refer to Safety
belts 32
Belts, refer to Safety belts 32
Beverage holders, refer to Cup
holders 81
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Blower, refer to Air flow
rate 73, 74
Bonnet 105
Bottle holders, refer to Cup
holders 81
Brake Assist 58
Brake fluid, refer to Service
requirements 53
Brake lamps
– replacing bulbs 118
Brake pads, breaking in 84
Brake rotors 85
– brakes 84
– breaking in 84
Brake system 84
– breaking in 84
– disc brakes 85
– MINI Maintenance
System 109
Brakes
– ABS 58
– breaking in 84
– MINI Maintenance
System 109
– parking brake 40
– service requirements 53
Brakes, refer to Braking
safely 85
Breakdown service, refer to
Roadside Assistance 125
Break-in period 84
Breaking in the clutch 84
Bulb changing, refer to Lamps
and bulbs 115
Button for starting the
engine 38
Buttons on the steering
wheel 11
C
California Proposition 65
warning 5
Can holders, refer to Cup
holders 81
Capacities 144
Car battery, refer to Vehicle
battery 123
Car care 111
Car key, refer to Keys/remote
controls 18
Car phone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest 79
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual
Car wash 85
Car wash, care 111
Car washes 111
Care 111
– Car washes 111
– Car-care products 111
– CD/DVD drives 114
– High-pressure washers 112
– internal 113
– Leather 113
– Manual washing 112
– Upholstery and fabrics 113
– Windows 112
– Wiper blades 112
Cargo area
– capacity 144
Cargo area partition net, refer
to Partition net in MINI
Clubman 87
Cargo bay 86
– convenient access 26
– cover 86
– doors, refer to Splitdoor 23
– lamp 70
– opening from outside 23
– trunk lid, refer to Splitdoor 23
Cargo bay doors, refer to
Splitdoor 23
Cargo bay, expanding 86
Cargo bay lamp 70
Cargo bay partition net, refer
to Partition net in MINI
Clubman 87
Cargo loading 88
– securing cargo 89
– stowing cargo 88
– vehicle 86
Cargo, securing 89
Carpets, care 113
Catalytic converter, refer to
Hot exhaust system 84
Center armrest 79
Center brake lamp 119
Center console, refer to
Around the center
console 14
Central locking system 19
– convenient access 25
– from inside 22
– from outside 19
Changing bulbs 115
Changing wheels 121
Chassis number, refer to
Engine compartment 106
Check Control 55
Child's seats 35
Child-restraint fixing system
LATCH 36
Child-restraint systems 35
Chrome parts, care 112
Chrome parts, refer to
Care 111
Cigarette lighter 81
Cleaning headlamps 44
– washer fluid 45
Clock 48
– 12h/24h mode 51
– setting time 54
Closing
– from inside 22
– from outside 19
Clothes hooks 80
Clubdoor 23
Cockpit 10
Cold start, refer to Starting the
engine 39
Comfort access
– what to observe before
entering a car wash 26
Comfort access, refer to
Convenient access 25
Comfort area, refer to Around
the center console 14
Compartment for remote
control, refer to Ignition
lock 38
Computer 49
Condensation, refer to When
the vehicle is parked 85
Condition Based Service
CBS 109
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Configuring settings, refer to
Personal Profile 18
Confirmation signals for
vehicle locking/unlocking 20
Connecting vacuum cleaner,
refer to Connecting electrical
appliances 81
Consumption indicator
– average fuel consumption 49
Consumption, refer to Average
fuel consumption 49
Control Display
– settings 50
Controls and displays 10
Convenience start, refer to
Starting the engine 39
Convenient access 25
– replacing the battery 27
Convenient operation
– windows 20
Coolant 107
– checking level 107
– filling 107
Coolant temperature 48
Cooling fluid, refer to
Coolant 107
Cooling, maximum 75
Copyright 2
Cruising range 49
Cup holders 81
Curb weight, refer to
Weights 144
Current fuel consumption 50
D
Dashboard instruments, refer
to Displays 12
Dashboard lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting 70
Dashboard, refer to Cockpit 10
Data 142
– capacities 144
– dimensions 143
– engine 142
– weights 144
Date
– setting 55
Daytime running lamps 68
DBC Dynamic Brake Control,
refer to Brake assist 58
Deactivating front passenger
airbags 65
Deadlocking, refer to
Locking 20
Defect
– door lock 22
– fuel filler door 94
Defogging windows 74, 76
Defrost position, refer to
Defrosting windows 74, 76
Defrosting windows 74, 76
Defrosting windows and
removing condensation
– air conditioner 74
– automatic climate control 76
Differential, breaking in 84
Digital clock 48
Dimensions 143
Dipstick, engine oil 106
Directional indicators, refer to
Turn signals 42
Displacement, refer to Engine
data 142
Display lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting 70
Displays 12
– instrument combination 12
Displays and controls 10
Displays, care 114
Disposal
– of coolant 107
– remote control battery 27
– vehicle battery 123
Distance remaining to service,
refer to Service
requirements 53
Distance warning, refer to Park
Distance Control PDC 57
Diving stability control
systems 57
Door
– rear, refer to Clubdoor 23
Door key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control
18
Door lock 22
Door lock, confirmation
signals 20
Doors, manual operation 22
DOT Quality Grades 101
Double doors, refer to
Splitdoor 23
Drinks holders, refer to Cup
holders 81
Drive-off assistant, refer to Hill
Start Assist 59
Driving dynamics control, refer
to Sport button 60
Driving lamps, refer to Parking
lamps/low beams 67
Driving notes 84
Driving off on inclines, refer to
Hill Start Assist 59
Driving through water 85
Driving tips, refer to Driving
notes 84
Dry air, refer to Cooling
function 76
DTC Dynamic Traction Control
DTC 58
Dynamic Brake Control DBC,
refer to Brake assist 58
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 58
Dynamic Traction Control 58
E
Electrical malfunction
– door lock 22
– fuel filler door 94
Electronic brake-force
distribution 58
Electronic Stability Program
ESP, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC 58
Emergency operation, refer to
Manual operation
– door lock 22
– fuel filler door 94
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission 42
Emergency services, refer to
Roadside Assistance 125
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Engine
– breaking in 84
– data 142
– overheated, refer to Coolant
temperature 48
– speed 142
– starting 39
– starting, convenient
access 25
– switching off 39
Engine compartment 106
Engine coolant, refer to
Coolant 107
Engine oil
– adding 107
– additives, refer to Approved
engine oils 107
– approved engine oils 107
– capacity 107
– checking level 106
– dipstick 106
– intervals between changes,
refer to Service
requirements 53
– MINI Maintenance
System 109
Engine oil level, checking 106
Engine output, refer to Engine
data 142
Engine starting, refer to
Starting the engine 39
Error messages, refer to Check
Control 55
ESP Electronic Stability
Program, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC 58
Event data recorders 110
Exhaust system, refer to Hot
exhaust system 84
Exterior mirrors 33
– adjusting 33
– automatic heating 33
– folding in and out 33
External audio device 79
External care
– 111
Eyes
– for tow-starting and towing
away 126
– for tying down loads 89
F
Failure messages, refer to
Check Control 55
Failure of an electrical
consumer 123
Fasten safety belts reminder,
refer to Seat belt
reminder 32
Fastening safety belts, refer to
Safety belts 32
Filter
– microfilter for air
conditioner 74
– microfilter/activated-
charcoal filter for automatic
climate control 76
Fine wood, care 113
First aid pouch 125
Fixture for remote control,
refer to Ignition lock 38
Flash when locking/
unlocking 20
Flat tire
– Run-Flat Tires 103
– Tire Pressure Monitor TPM 62
Flat Tire Monitor FTM 60
– indicating a flat tire 61
– initializing the system 60
– malfunction 61
– snow chains 60
– system limits 60
Flat tires, refer to Tire
condition 102
Floor mats, care 113
Floor plate, see Level load
floor 87
Fog lamps
– replacing bulb 117, 119
Folding rear seat backrest 86
Footbrake, refer to Braking
safely 85
Footwell lamps 70
For your own safety 4
Front airbags 65
Front fog lamps 70
– indicator lamp 129
– replacing bulb 117
Front seat adjustment 29
Frost on windows, refer to
Defrosting windows 74, 76
FTM, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor 60
Fuel 95
– gauge 49
– high-quality brands 95
– quality 95
– specifications 95
– tank capacity 144
Fuel clock, refer to Fuel
gauge 49
Fuel display, refer to Fuel
gauge 49
Fuel filler door 94
– releasing in the event of
electrical malfunction 94
Fuses 123
G
Garage door opener, refer to
Integrated universal remote
control 77
Gasoline
– refer to Average
consumption 49
Gasoline display, refer to Fuel
gauge 49
Gasoline, refer to Required
fuel 95
Gear indicator
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
Gear shifting
– automatic transmission 41
– manual transmission 40
Gearshift lever
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
– manual transmission 40
General driving notes 84
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Glass sunroof, electric 27
– convenient operation 20, 22
– opening, closing 27
– raising 27
– remote control 20
Glove compartment 78
Grills, refer to Air vents 72
Gross vehicle weight, refer to
Weights 144
H
Halogen lamps
– replacing bulb 116
Handbrake, refer to Parking
brake 40
Hands-free system 14
Hazard warning flashers 14
Head airbags 65
Head restraints 31
– sitting safely 29
Headlamp control,
automatic 67
Headlamp flasher 42
– indicator lamp 11, 129
Headlamps
– replacing bulb 116
Headlamps, care 112
Heated
– mirrors 33
– rear window 73, 75
– seats 32
Heating 72
– mirrors 33
– rear window 73, 75
– seats 32
Heavy loads, refer to Stowing
cargo 88
Height adjustment
– seats 30
– steering wheel 34
Height, refer to
Dimensions 143
High beams 69
– headlamp flasher 69
– indicator lamp 129
– replacing bulb 116
High water, refer to Driving
through water 85
Hill Start Assist 59
Hills 85
Holders for cups 81
Homepage 4
Horn 10
Hot exhaust system 84
Hydroplaning 84
I
Ice warning 48
Icy roads, refer to Outside
temperature warning 48
Ignition 38
– switched off 39
– switched on 38
Ignition key position 1, refer to
Radio readiness 38
Ignition key position 2, refer to
Ignition on 38
Ignition key, refer to
Integrated key/remote
control 18
Ignition lock 38
Imprint 2
Indicator and warning
lamps 13, 129
– Tire Pressure Monitor TPM 63
Indicator lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting 70
Individual air distribution 73
Individual settings, refer to
Personal Profile 18
Inflation pressure monitoring,
refer to Tire Pressure Monitor
TPM 62
Initializing
– Flat Tire Monitor FTM 60
– glass sunroof, electric 28
Instrument cluster, refer to
Displays 12
Instrument lighting 70
Instrument panel, refer to
Cockpit 10
Instrument panel, refer to
Displays 12
Integrated key 18
Integrated universal remove
control 77
Interior lamps 70
– remote control 21
Interior rearview mirror 33
– automatic dimming
feature 33
Interlock 41
Intermittent mode of the
wipers 43
Internet page 4
J
Jacking points 122
Jets, refer to Window washer
nozzles 45
Jump starting 125
Jumpering, refer to Jump
starting 125
K
Key Memory, refer to Personal
Profile 18
Key, refer to Keys/remote
controls 18
Keyless go, refer to Convenient
access 25
Keyless opening and closing,
refer to Convenient
access 25
Kick-down 41
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
Knock control 95
L
Lamps and bulbs, replacing
bulbs 115
Lamps, refer to Parking lamps/
Low beams 67
Lashing eyes, refer to Securing
cargo 89
LATCH child-restraint fixing
system 36
Leather care 113
LEDs light-emitting diodes 116
Length, refer to
Dimensions 143
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Level load floor 87
License plate lamp
– replacing bulbs in MINI
Clubman 119
Light switch 67
Light-alloy wheels, care 113
Light-emitting diodes
LEDs 116
Lighter 81
– socket 81
Lighting
– lamps and bulbs 115
– of the instruments 70
– of vehicle, refer to Lamps 67
Limit 139
Load 88
Load securing equipment,
refer to Securing cargo 89
Lock buttons of doors, refer to
Locking 22
Locking
– adjusting confirmation
signal 20
– from inside 22
– from outside 20
– without remote control, refer
to Convenient access 25
Locking and unlocking doors
– confirmation signals 20
– from inside 22
– from outside 19
Low beams 67
– automatic 67
– replacing bulb 116
Lower back support, refer to
Lumbar support 30
Luggage compartment doors,
refer to Splitdoor 23
Luggage rack, refer to Roof-
mounted luggage rack 89
Lumbar support 30
M
M+S tires, refer to Winter
tires 104
Maintenance, refer to Service
Booklet
Maintenance system 109
Malfunction warnings, refer to
Check Control 55
Manual air distribution 73
Manual mode
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
Manual operation
– door lock 22
– fuel filler door 94
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission 42
Manual transmission 40
Manual washing 112
Master key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control 18
Maximum cooling 75
Maximum speed
– with winter tires 104
Medical assistance, refer to
First aid pouch 125
Microfilter
– for air conditioner 74
– for automatic climate
control 76
– MINI Maintenance
System 109
Microfilter/activated-charcoal
filter
– MINI Maintenance
System 109
Microphone for telephone 14
MINI Internet page 4
MINI Maintenance System 109
Mirror dimming feature 33
Mirrors 33
– exterior mirrors 33
– heating 33
– interior rearview mirror 33
Mobile phone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest 79
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual
Mobile phone, installation
location, refer to Center
armrest 79
Mobile phone, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Mobility System 119
Modifications, technical, refer
to For your own safety 4
Monitoring system for tire
pressures, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor 60
Multifunction switch
– refer to Turn signals/
headlamp flasher 42
– refer to Wiper system 43
Multifunctional steering
wheel, refer to Buttons on
the steering wheel 11
N
Neck support, refer to Head
restraints 31
Nets, refer to Storage
compartments 80
New tires 103
Number of cylinders, refer to
Engine data 142
Nylon rope, refer to Tow
rope 127
O
OBD socket, refer to Socket for
Onboard Diagnosis 109
Octane ratings, refer to Fuel
specifications 95
Odometer 48
Oil consumption 106
Oil level 106
Oil, refer to Engine oil 106
Old batteries, refer to
Disposal 123
Onboard tool kit 115
Opening and closing
– convenient access 25
– from inside 22
– from outside 19
– using the door lock 22
– via the remote control 19
Opening and unlocking
– from inside 22
Opening/closing the splitdoor
– 23
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152
Outlets
– refer to Ventilation 76
Outlets, refer to Air vents 72
Output, refer to Engine
data 142
Outside temperature
display 48
– changing unit of measure 51
– on onboard computer 51
Outside-air mode
– automatic climate control 75
Overheated engine, refer to
Coolant temperature 48
P
Paintwork, care 112
Park Distance Control PDC 57
Parking
– vehicle 39
Parking aid, refer to Park
Distance Control PDC 57
Parking brake 40
Parking lamps, replacing
bulb 117
Parking lamps/low beams 67
Partition net in MINI
Clubman 87
Parts and accessories, refer to
Your individual vehicle 4
Pathway lighting 67
Personal Profile 18
Pinch protection system
– windows 28
Plastic parts, care 113
Pollen
– refer to Microfilter for air
conditioner 74
– refer to Microfilter/activated-
charcoal filter for automatic
climate control 76
Power failure 123
Power windows 28
Power windows, refer to
Windows 28
Pressure monitoring of tires,
refer to Tire Pressure Monitor
TPM 62
Pressure monitoring, tires 60
– Flat Tire Monitor 60
Pressure, tires 96
Protective function, refer to
Pinch protection system
– windows 28
Puncture
– Flat Tire Monitor 60
R
Radio key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control 18
Radio position, refer to Radio
readiness 38
Radio readiness 38
– switched off 39
– switched on 38
Rain sensor 43
Range, refer to Cruising
range 49
Reading lamps 70
Rear door, refer to
Clubdoor 23
Rear doors, refer to
Splitdoor 23
Rear double doors, refer to
Splitdoor 23
Rear fog lamp 70
– indicator lamp 129
– replacing bulb 119
Rear lamps, refer to Tail
lamps 118
Rear seat backrest, folding 86
Rear seats
– folding the backrests 86
Rear window heating 73, 75
Rearview mirror, refer to
Mirrors 33
Recirculated-air mode 73, 75
Recirculation of air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode 73, 75
Reclining seat, refer to
Backrest 30
Refueling 94
Releasing
– bonnet 105
Remote control 18
– battery renewal 27
– convenient access 25
– garage door opener 77
– malfunctions 21, 27
– service data 109
– Splitdoor 21
Replacement remote
control 18
Replacing bulbs, refer to
Lamps and bulbs 115
Replacing tires, refer to New
wheels and tires 103
Reporting safety defects 6
Reserve warning, refer to Fuel
gauge 49
Reservoir for washer
systems 45
Restraint systems
– for children 35
– refer to Safety belts 32
Reverse gear
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
– manual transmission 40
Roadside Assistance 125
Roadside parking lamps 69
– replacing bulb 117
Roadworthiness test, refer to
Service requirements 53
Roof load capacity 144
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 89
Rope, refer to Tow-starting,
towing away 127
RSC Runflat System
Component, refer to Run-
Flat Tires 103
Rubber parts, care 112
Runflat System Component
RSC, refer to Run-Flat
Tires 103
Run-Flat Tires 103
– flat tire 61
– new tires 103
– tire inflation pressure 96
– winter tires 104
Runflat Tyres, refer to Run-Flat
Tires 103
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S
Safety belts 32
– damage 32
– indicator lamp 32
– reminder 32
– sitting safely 29
Safety belts, care 113
Safety systems
– airbags 65
– Antilock Brake System
ABS 58
– Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 58
– safety belts 32
Safety tires, refer to Run-Flat
Tires 103
Screw thread for tow
fitting 126
Seat adjustment
– mechanical 30
Seats 29
– adjusting the seats 30
– heating 32
– sitting safely 29
Securing the vehicle
– from inside 22
– from outside 19
Selector lever
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
Selector lever lock
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic, refer to
Shiftlock 41
– overriding manually 42
Selector lever positions
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
Service car, refer to Roadside
Assistance 125
Service data in the remote
control 109
Service Interval Display, refer
to Condition Based Service
CBS 109
Service, refer to Roadside
Assistance 125
Service requirement display,
refer to Condition Based
Service CBS 109
Service requirements 53
Settings
– clock, 12h/24h mode 51
Shifting gears
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
– manual transmission 40
Shiftlock
– automatic transmission, refer
to Changing selector lever
positions 41
Side airbags 65
Side door, rear, refer to
Clubdoor 23
Side turn signal indicator
– replacing bulb 118
Side windows, refer to
Windows 28
Signal horn, refer to Horn 10
Sitting safely 29
– airbags 29
– safety belts 29
– with head restraint 29
Size, refer to Dimensions 143
Sliding/tilt sunroof
– refer to Glass sunroof,
electric 27
Slot for remote control 38
Smokers' package, refer to
Ashtray 81
Snap-in adapter, refer to
Center armrest storage
compartment 79
Snow chains 104
Socket for Onboard Diagnosis
OBD 109
Socket, refer to Connecting
electrical appliances 81
Space-saver spare tire
– changing tires 121
– inflation pressure 96
Spare wheel, refer to Space-
saver spare tire 121
Special oils, refer to Approved
engine oils 107
Speed 142
– with winter tires 104
Speed control, refer to Cruise
control 45
Speedometer 12
Split rear seat backrest, refer to
Expanding the cargo bay 86
Splitdoor 23
– opening from outside 23
– unlocking with remote
control 21
Sport button 60
Stability control, refer to
Driving stability control
systems 57
Start/stop button 38
– starting the engine 39
– switching off the engine 39
Starting assistance, refer to
Jump starting 125
Starting, refer to Starting the
engine 39
Starting the engine
– start/stop button 38
Start-off assistance, refer to
– DSC 58
– Hill Start Assist 59
Status of this Owner's Manual
at time of printing 4
Steering wheel 34
– adjustment 34
– buttons on steering wheel 11
– lock 38
– shift paddles 41
Steptronic, refer to Automatic
transmission with
Steptronic 40
Storage area
– cargo bay 86
Storage compartment, front
passenger side 80
Storage compartments 80
Storage space
– storage compartments 80
Storing the vehicle 114
Storing tires 104
Stowage, refer to Storage
compartments 80
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Summer tires, refer to Wheels
and tires 96
Switches, refer to Cockpit 10
Switching off
– engine 39
Switching off the engine
– start/stop button 38
Switching the cooling function
on and off 76
Symbols 4
T
Tachometer 48
Tail lamp, refer to Tail
lamps 118
– replacing bulb 118
Tail lamps 118
– replacing bulbs in MINI
Clubman 118
Tailgate
– convenient access 26
Tailgate, see splitdoor 21
Tank volume, refer to
Capacities 144
Technical data 142
Technical modifications 4
Telephone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest 79
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual
Telephone call, refer to the
Owner's Manual for the
telephone
Temperature display
– ice warning 48
– outside temperature 48
– setting the units 51
Temperature of coolant, refer
to Coolant temperature 48
Temperature setting
– air conditioner 73
– automatic climate control 75
Tensioning straps, refer to
Securing cargo 89
The individual vehicle 4
Third brake lamp, refer to
Center brake lamp 119
Three-point safety belt 32
Tightening the lug bolts
– keys 121
– torque 123
Tightening torque, refer to
Tightening the lug bolts 123
Tire change set
– MINI Mobility System 121
– space-saver spare tire 121
Tire failure
– Flat Tire Monitor 61
– indicator/warning lamp 61
– MINI Mobility System 119
– Run-Flat Tires 61
– space-saver spare tire 121
– Tire Pressure Monitor 62
Tire inflation pressure 96
– loss 61
– space-saver spare tire 96
Tire Pressure Monitor TPM 62
– limitations of system 62
– resetting system 62
– warning lamp 63
Tire pressure monitoring, refer
to Flat Tire Monitor 60
Tire Quality Grading
101
Tires
– age 102
– breaking in 84
– changing, refer to Changing
wheels 121
– condition 102
– damage 102
– inflation pressure 96
– inflation pressure loss 63
– minimum tread depth 102
– new tires 103
– pressure monitoring, refer to
Flat Tire Monitor 60
– pressure monitoring, refer to
Tire Pressure Monitor
TPM 62
– puncture 61
– Run-Flat Tires 103
– size 101
– wear indicators, refer to
Minimum tread depth 102
– winter tires 104
Tires with safety features, refer
to Run-Flat Tires 103
Tools, refer to Onboard tool
kit 115
Torque 142
– lug bolts 123
Tow bar 127
Tow fitting 126
– screw thread 126
Tow fittings for tow-starting
and towing away 126
Tow rope 127
Towing 126
– car with automatic
transmission 127
– methods 127
Tow-starting 126
TPM, refer to Tire Pressure
Monitor 62
Track width, refer to
Dimension 143
Traction control, refer to
– Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 58
Transmission
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
– manual transmission 40
– overriding selector lever lock
for automatic transmission
with Steptronic 42
Transport securing devices,
refer to Securing cargo 89
Transporting children safely 35
Tread depth, refer to Minimum
tire tread 102
Trip odometer 48
Trip-distance counter, refer to
Trip odometer 48
Triple turn signal activation 42
Turn signal indicator 42
– front, replacing bulb 117
– indicator lamp 12
– rear, replacing bulb 118
– side, replacing bulb 118
Turning circle, refer to
Dimensions 143
Tying down loads, refer to
Cargo loading 89
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U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
UTQR 101
Units
– average fuel consumption 51
– temperature 51
Universal garage door opener,
refer to Integrated universal
remote control 77
Universal remove control 77
Unlatching, refer to
Unlocking 26
Unlocking
– from inside 22
– from outside 19
– tailgate 26
– without remote control, refer
to Convenient access 25
Upholstery, care 113
USB-audio interface 79
V
Vehicle
– battery 123
– breaking in 84
– cargo loading 86
– dimensions 143
– Identification Number, refer
to Engine compartment 106
– parking 39
– storage 114
– weight 144
Vehicle jack 121
– jacking points 122
Ventilation
– air conditioner 76
Vents, refer to Air vents 72
Vents, refer to Ventilation 76
Volume of cargo area 144
W
Warning and indicator
lamps 13, 129
Warning messages, refer to
Check Control 55
Warning triangle 125
Washer fluid 45
– capacity of reservoir 45
Washer fluid reservoir 45
Waste tray, refer to Ashtray 81
Water on roads, refer to
Driving through water 85
Waterfall lighting, refer to
Ambient lighting 71
Wear indicators in tires, refer to
Minimum tread depth 102
Weights 144
Welcome lamps 67
Wheel stud wrench
– space-saver spare tire 121
Wheelbase, refer to
Dimensions 143
Wheels and tires 96
Wheels, new 103
Width, refer to
Dimensions 143
Window washer, refer to
Washer fluid 45
Window washer reservoir,
refer to Washer fluid
– volume, refer to
Capacities 144
Windows 28
– closing 28
– convenient operation 20
– opening 28
– pinch protection system 28
Windshield
– cleaning 44
– defrosting and removing
condensation 74, 76
Windshield, defrosting, refer to
Defrosting windows 74, 76
Windshield washer system 43
– washer fluid 45
– washer nozzles 45
Windshield wiper blades,
changing 115
Windshield wipers, refer to
Wiper system 43
Winter tires 104
– storage 104
Wiper blade replacement 115
Wiper system 43
Work in the engine
compartment 105
Wrench/screwdriver, refer to
Onboard tool kit 115
X
Xenon lamps
– replacing bulb 116
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Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 601 017 - © 08/08 BMW AG

01 41 2 601 017 ue Basis
*BL260101700H*
DRIVE ME.
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