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 maintenance
information.
About this Owner's Manual 6
Symbols used 6
Your individual vehicle 6
Editorial notice 7
For your own safety 7
Symbol on vehicle parts 8
Service and warranty 8
Reporting safety defects 9
Cockpit 12
Display elements 13
Display elements with navigation
system 14
Indicator and warning lamps 15
Multifunction steering wheels 18
CONTROLS
Opening and closing:
Keys 22
Central locking system 23
Opening and closing: from outside 23
Opening and closing: from inside 26
Tailgate 27
Electric power windows 28
Glass sunroof, electric 29
Roller sun blind 30
Adjustments:
Safe seating position 31
Seat adjustment 32
Head restraints 33
Entry to the rear 34
Safety belts 35
Seat heating 35
Steering wheel 36
Mirrors 36
Vehicle Memory 37
Transporting children safely 38
Ignition lock 41
Starting the engine 41
Switching off the engine 43
Parking brake 43
Manual transmission 44
Continuously Variable automatic
Transmission (CVT) 45
Parking lamps/Low beams 48
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 49
Instrument lighting 49
Fog lamps 49
Interior lamps 50
Washer/wiper system 50
Cruise control 52
Everything under control:
Odometer 54
Tachometer 54
Fuel gauge 54
Coolant temperature gauge 55
Service interval display 56
Clock 56
Onboard computer 57
Technology for safety and driving
convenience:
All Season traction Control (ASC) 59
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) 60
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 61
Flat Tire Monitor 62
Park Distance Control (PDC) 64
Airbags 65
Controlling the climate for pleasant
driving:
Air conditioning system 67
Automatic climate control 70
Interior conveniences:
Glove compartment 73
Ashtray, beverage holders 74
Cigarette lighter, 12 V power supply 74
Loading and transporting cargo:
Cargo area 75
Loading cargo 76
Roof-mounted luggage rack 78
OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 82
General driving notes 83
Refueling 84
Fuel specifications 85
Brake system 86
In compiling this Owner's Manual we have
made every effort to furnish you with a
convenient reference source affording
quick access to all the essentials. The fastest way to find detailed information on any
specific subject is to turn to the comprehensive 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, please remember to
hand over this Owner's Manual to the new
owner; it is an important part of the vehicle.
If you have any additional questions, your
MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you.
Symbols used
Indicates precautions that must be
followed precisely in order to avoid
the possibility of personal injury and serious damage to the vehicle.
Contains 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 infor-
mation.
*
Indicates special equipment, countryspecific equipment and optional extras
when available.
Vehicle Memory, refer to page 37.
Identifies functions that can be specifically adapted for a particular vehicle.
These adjustments can be performed either
by yourself or by your MINI Dealer.
Your individual vehicle
The manufacturer of your MINI is the Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft,
BMW AG.
On purchasing your MINI, you have decided
in favor of a model with individualized
equipment and features. This Owner's
Manual describes the entire array of
options and equipment that the manufacturer of your MINI makes available with a
specific model range.
We hope you will understand that equipment and features are included that you
might not have chosen for your vehicle. To
assist you in identifying possible variations
between your own vehicle and the manual's contents, the passages describing
optional accessories and special equipment
are marked with an asterisk
If your MINI features equipment that is not
described in this Owner's Manual – a car
radio, for instance – we have enclosed additional operating instructions. We ask you to
read these manuals as well.
The manufacturer pursues a policy of continuous, ongoing development that is conceived to ensure that the MINI continues to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced, stateof-the-art technology. For this reason, the
features described in this Owner's Manual
could differ from those on your vehicle. Nor
can errors and omissions be entirely ruled
out.
You are therefore asked to appreciate that
no claims can be entertained on the basis
of the data, illustrations or descriptions in
this Owner's Manual.
For your own safety
Fuels
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels
containing up to and including 10%
ethanol or other oxygenates with up to
2.8% oxygen by weight, i.e. 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. Field experience has indicated significant differences in fuel quality,
i.e. volatility, composition, additives, etc.,
among gasolines offered for sale in the
United States and Canada. The use of poorquality fuels may result in driveability,
starting and stalling problems, especially
under certain environmental conditions
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.
Failure to comply with these recommendations may result in unscheduled maintenance.
Obey pertinent safety rules when you are
handling gasoline.
<
Maintenance and repair
Advanced technology, e.g. the use of
modern materials and high-performance electronics, requires specially
adapted maintenance and repair methods.
Therefore, only have corresponding work
on your MINI carried out by a MINI Dealer
or a workshop that works according to
MINI repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel. If work is carried
out improperly there is a danger of consequential damage and the related safety
risks.
parts and accessories approved by
the manufacturer 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 thoroughly 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 damages resulting
from installation of parts and accessories
not approved by the manufacturer
of the MINI.
The manufacturer of the MINI cannot test
every product from other manufacturers to
verify if it can be used on a MINI safely and
without risk to either the vehicle, its operation, or its occupants.
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 portable cellular phone from within
the vehicle without using an externally
mounted antenna, or transceiver equipment, e.g. CB, walkie-talkie, ham radio or
similar, may cause extensive damage to the
vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere
with the vehicle's electrical system or affect
the validity of the MINI Limited Warranty.
See your MINI Dealer for additional information.
systems must be performed by an authorized MINI Dealership or individual using
certified MINI parts.
<
Maintenance, replacement, or repair
of the emission control devices and
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult the
relevant section of this Owner's Manual for information on a particular part or
assembly.
Service and warranty
This manual is supplemented by a Service
and Warranty Information Booklet for US
models or a Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models.
We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.
Your MINI is covered by the following warranties:
>
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.
The following only applies 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 the MINI Division of BMW of North
America, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood,
New Jersey 07675-1227, telephone tollfree 1-866-275-6464.
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 BMW of North
America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may either
call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free
at 1-800-424-9393 or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area, or write to:
NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation,
Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also
obtain other information about motor
vehicle safety from the Hotline.
The system runs a check on the indicator
and warning lamps marked by
you switch on the ignition. They each light
up once for different periods of time.
If a malfunction should occur in one of
these systems, the corresponding lamp
does not go out after the engine is started
or it lights up while the vehicle is moving.
You will see below the correct way to react
to this.
+
each time
Red: stop immediately
Battery charge current
The battery is no longer being
charged. Indicates a defective alternator drive belt or a problem with the
charge circuit. Please contact the nearest
MINI Dealer.
If this lamp lights up, the power-assist for
steering can be deactivated.
If the drive belt is defective, do not
continue driving. The engine could be
damaged due to overheating. When the
power-assist is deactivated, increased
steering effort is required.
Engine oil pressure
Stop immediately. Switch off
engine. Check the engine oil and fill
as needed. Please contact the nearest MINI
Dealer.
Do not continue driving; otherwise,
the engine could be damaged
because of inadequate lubrication.
+
<
+
<
Brake warning lamp
+
Lights up although parking brake is
released: check the brake fluid
level. Before driving further, be sure to
comply with the information on pages 86
and 101.
Brake warning lamp for Canadian
models.
With navigation system option:
Coolant temperature warning
lamp in the speedometer
+
Lights up while driving:
Engine is too hot. Switch off the engine
immediately and allow to cool down, also
refer to page 55.
Flat Tire Monitor
Flashes: tire failure.
Reduce speed immediately and
stop the vehicle.
With Run Flat tires:
Carefully reduce the driving speed to below
50 mph / 80 km/h and continue to a safe
location.
In both cases, avoid hard brake applications
and steering maneuvers. Check the tire
inflation pressures.
Conduct in the event of a flat tire, refer to
pages 93, 116, 117, 121.
General information on the system, refer to
page 62.
+
Red and yellow: continue driving
cautiously
Brake warning light together with
yellow indicator lamp for ABS, CBC,
EBD and ASC/DSC:
The control system ABS, CBC, EBD
and ASC/DSC has failed. Drive cautiously and defensively. Avoid full
brake applications.
Please have the system checked by
your MINI Dealer as soon as possible.
More information on pages 59, 60.
Brake warning lamp together with
the yellow indicator warning lamps
ABS, CBC, EBV and ASC/DSC for
Canadian models.
Red: an important reminder
Brake warning lamp
with parking brake applied.
More information on the parking
brake on page 43.
Brake warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Fasten safety belts
Lights up for several seconds or, de-
pending on the version, until after
the safety belts are fastened. A signal* also
sounds depending on the version.
More information on page 35.
Depending on the level of equipment,
the indicator lamp is in the vicinity of
the navigation system.
+
<
Airbags
+
Please have the system inspected
at your MINI Dealer.
More information on page 65.
Depending on the level of equipment,
the indicator lamp is in the vicinity of
the navigation system.
<
Bonnet/Tailgate
Lights up when the bonnet and/or
tailgate are open.
More information on pages 27, 95.
Brake pads
Have the condition of the brake
pads checked.
More information on page 86.
Depending on the level of equipment,
the indicator lamp is in the vicinity of
Flat Tire Monitor
Stays lit: the system is defective.
Please have the system inspected
at your MINI Dealer.
More information on page 62.
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
ABS has been deactivated in
response to system malfunction.
Conventional braking efficiency is available. Please have the system inspected at
your MINI Dealer.
More information on page 61.
ABS indicator lamp for Canadian
models.
All Season traction Control (ASC)/
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Indicator lamp flashes:
System active: drive and braking forces are
regulated.
The indicator lamp stays lit: ASC/DSC
switched off with button or defective. In
the event of a defect: please have the system inspected at your MINI Dealer.
More information on pages 59, 60.
+
+
+
Service Engine Soon
+
If the warning lamp comes on
either continuously or intermittently, this indicates a malfunction in the
emissions-related electronic systems.
Although the vehicle remains operational,
you should have the systems checked by
your MINI Dealer at the earliest possible
opportunity.
Service Engine Soon warning lamp
for Canadian models.
Engine electronics
*
+
Malfunction in the engine electron-
ics. You can continue to drive with
reduced engine output or engine speed.
Please have the system inspected at your
MINI Dealer.
Check Gas Cap
*
+
This indicator lamp comes on
when the fuel gas cap is loose or
missing. Close the gas cap tightly:
Refer to page 85.
Depending on the level of equipment,
the indicator lamp is in the vicinity of
the navigation system.
<
Green: for your information
Turn signal indicators
Flashes when turn signal indicator
is on.
Rapid flashing: the system is defective.
More information on page 49.
Cruise control
Lights up when the cruise control is
activated: operation via the multifunction steering wheel or multifunction
sports steering wheel.
More information on page 52.
Blue: for your information
High beams
Comes on when the high beams
are on or the headlamp flasher is
actuated.
More information on page 49.
The control buttons integrated within the
multifunction steering wheel and the multifunction sports steering wheel have been
designed to allow you to operate a number
of accessories both quickly and safely, without taking your eyes from the road:
>
Some audio source functions
>
Cruise control.
*
18
Steering wheel
1 Call up and continue cruise control
2 Activate/interrupt/deactivate cruise
control
3 Store and accelerate cruise control
4 Store and decelerate cruise control
Right:
5 Volume
6 Changing between radio, CD and cas-
sette
Left:
5 Operation of:
>
Radio
Press briefly: next/previous station
stored in memory
Extended pressure: station scan
>
CD
Press briefly: jump to next track
Extended pressure: search within current title
>Cassette
Press briefly: jump to next track or
stop fast forward
Extended pressure: fast forward/
rewind
If the Wave radio is installed, the
above options for cassette
The central locking system is ready for
operation whenever the driver's door is
closed. The doors, the tailgate and the fuel
filler door are unlocked or locked.
The central locking system secures your
MINI:
>When operated from the outside via the
remote control as well as via the door
lock
>When operated from the inside via a
switch.
If operated from outside, the anti-theft system is activated at the same time. This prevents the doors from being unlocked via
safety lock buttons or door handles.
In the event of an accident, the central locking system unlocks automatically. The hazard warning system and interior lamps are
also switched on.
Via remote control
The remote control gives you an exceptionally convenient method for unlocking and
locking your vehicle. It also offers additional functions:
>To open the power windows and the
glass sunroof, refer to page 24.
Locking/unlocking the vehicle automatically activates/deactivates the anti-theft
system and switches the interior lamps off/
on.
If the vehicle has been properly locked
using the remote control, the hazard warning system flashes once.
When the vehicle is unlocked, the hazard
warning system does not react.
Children might be able to lock the
doors from the inside. Always take
the vehicle keys with you so that the vehicle can be opened again from the outside at
any time.<
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:LX8765S
LX8765E
LX8CAS
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
>This device may not cause harmful inter-
ference, 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
1 Unlocking and convenience opening
2 Locking and securing
If the remote control does not react,
the battery is discharged.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your MINI Dealer. You can
also obtain replacement keys and batteries
there.
Battery changing, refer to page 22.<
Unlocking
1. Press button once to unlock the
driver's door only.
The interior lamps are switched on and
the hazard warning flashers flash twice
2. Press button a second time to
unlock the other door as well as the tailgate and the fuel filler door.
You can have this function activated/
deactivated by your MINI Dealer.<
If none of the vehicle doors are
opened within 2 minutes, the central
locking system locks the vehicle automatically. The anti-theft system is not activated.
To deadlock the vehicle, refer to the next
column.<
You can have the vehicle's automatic
locking feature activated/deactivated.<
Convenience opening mode
Press and hold button .
The power windows and glass sunroof are
opened.
*
You can have the opening of the windows and glass sunroof with the
remote control activated/deactivated.<
Convenience closing is not possible
by means of the remote control.<
Locking and securing
Press button .
The hazard warning system flashes once.
With this switch, you operate the central
locking system when the doors are closed.
The doors and tailgate are unlocked or
locked only. The anti-theft system is not
activated.
If the remote control has been used
to unlock only the driver's door, refer
to page 24, and you touch the switch when
the driver's door is open, the other door, the
tailgate, and the fuel filler door are
unlocked.
If the driver's door is closed, touching the
switch locks it.<
To lock
Briefly press the switch downward
or
push down the safety lock buttons on the
doors.
After you have driven off, the central
locking system automatically locks
your MINI once a certain speed has been
reached.<
You can have this function activated/
deactivated by your MINI Dealer.<
Do not lock the safety lock buttons
while driving, since these doors will
not unlock automatically in the event of an
accident. Children might be able to lock the
doors from the inside. Always take the
vehicle's keys with you so that you can
open the vehicle again from the outside at
any time.<
To unlock and open the doors
1. Briefly press the switch upward
2. Pull the door handle above the armrest
or
pull the door handle for each door twice:
Push the button in the strip handle and
open the tailgate.
For information on unlocking via the central locking system, refer to page 26.
To unlock manually
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can also unlock the tailgate manually.
1. Fold the rear seat bench upwards
2. Pull the ring.
The tailgate is unlocked.
To close
The handle recesses in the interior trim
panel of the tailgate make it easier to pull
the lid down.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the tailgate is clear
when it is closed, as with all closing procedures.
Operate the vehicle only when the tailgate
is closed. Otherwise, exhaust fumes could
penetrate the interior of the vehicle.<
Should it be absolutely necessary to operate the vehicle with the tailgate open:
1. Close all windows and the glass sunroof
2. Sharply increase the air supply for the air
conditioning or automatic climate control, refer to page 67 or 70.
From ignition key position 1:
To open:
Press the switch downwards.
The window opens until you release the
switch
or
briefly press the switch downwards.
The window opens automatically.
Pressing the switch again stops the operation.
To close:
Press the switch upwards.
The window closes until you release the
switch
or
with the engine running:
Briefly press the switch upwards.
The window closes automatically.
Pressing the switch again stops the operation.
The window on the front passenger's
side cannot be closed automati-
cally.<
Watch during the closing process to
be sure that no one is injured.<
After the ignition has been switched off:
You can continue using the electric power
windows for a limited period as long as no
one opens any of the doors.
If a door is opened during operation, the
opening/closing process stops immediately.
When leaving the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key from the lock
and remember to close the doors, e.g. to
prevent children from operating the power
windows and injuring themselves.<
Convenience operation
For convenience operation using the
remote control refer to page 24, for operation via the door lock refer to page 25.
To initialize power windows
If the battery is disconnected, e.g. for
changing batteries or vehicle storage,
re-initialize the power windows. Otherwise the windows will not be lowered
when the door is opened.<
when closing the glass sunroof and
keep it in your field of vision until it is shut.
Make sure that the closing path of the sunroof is clear.
When leaving the vehicle, always remove
the ignition key from the lock and remember to close the doors, e.g. to prevent children from operating the sunroof and injuring themselves.
Be sure that adequate clearance is maintained for the opening path of the glass
sunroof; otherwise damage can occur.<
Convenience operation
For convenience operation using the
remote control refer to page 24, for operation via the door lock refer to page 25.
To raise
From ignition key position 1:
Press the switch
or
push the switch backwards to the resis-
tance point.
To open and close
From ignition key position 1:
1. Push the switch in the desired direction
until you feel resistance, and hold in this
position
2. Release the switch when the desired
sunroof position has been reached.
Do not use force to close the glass
sunroof in its raised position, as dam-
age to the mechanism could result.<
After the ignition has been switched off:
You can continue using the electric power
windows for a limited period as long as no
one opens any of the doors.
If a door is opened during operation, the
opening/closing process stops immediately.
Automatic opening and closing
From ignition key position 2:
To open:
Push the switch back past the point of
resistance:
The sunroof opens completely.
To close:
1. Press the switch past the pressure point:
The sunroof closes to the raised position
2. Press the switch again and keep it
depressed:
The sunroof closes completely.
Touching the switch briefly during opening
and closing stops the movement immediately.
If, while closing, the glass sunroof encounters resistance within roughly the last 8 in /
20 cm, the closing procedure is interrupted
and the roof reopens.
Despite the pinch protection, be
extremely careful that the travel path
of the sunroof is not obstructed whenever
it is closed. Otherwise, it is not guaranteed
that the closing procedure will be interrupted, for instance if the obstructions
offer very little resistance.
You can disable the pinch protection by
pressing the switch past the pressure point
and holding it.<
When closing the sunroof from the
raised position, ensure that the travel
path of the sunroof is not obstructed since
the pinch protection is not active in this
position.<
Manual opening and closing
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can also open and close the glass sunroof manually:
1. Push the clock towards the interior and
remove
2. Use an Allen key to turn the glass sunroof in the direction required.
1 Opening
1. Press the button in the handle, arrow 1
The cap is unlocked
2. Guide the roller sun blind towards the
back.
2 Closing
1. Use the handle to pull the roller sun
blind forwards
The ideal seating position can make a vital
contribution to relaxed, relatively fatiguefree driving. Together with the safety belts
and airbags, the seating position also plays
an important role in providing occupants
with maximum levels of passive safety in
an accident. To ensure that the safety systems operate with optimal efficiency, we
strongly urge you to observe the instructions contained in the following section.
For additional information about transporting children safely, refer to page 38.
Sitting safely with airbags
Always maintain an adequate dis-
tance between yourself and all of the
airbags. Always hold the steering wheel by
the rim with the hands at the 9 and
3 o'clock positions to keep any chance of
injury to hands or arms to an absolute minimum, should the airbag be deployed.
No one and nothing is to come between
the airbags and the seat occupant. Do not
use the front passenger airbag cover as a
storage surface for objects of any kind.
Ensure that the front passenger is correctly
seated, i.e. that no feet or legs are propped
against the dashboad. Otherwise, leg injury
could result if the front passenger airbag
suddenly deployed. Never let an occupant's
head rest near or on a side airbag because
the inflating airbag could cause a serious or
fatal injury.<
Even if all these instructions are followed, it
cannot entirely be ruled out that in some
circumstances injury may result from contact with the airbags. In sensitive individuals, the ignition and inflation noise may
induce a mild hearing loss that is usually
temporary.
For airbag locations and additional information on airbags, refer to page 65.
Safe seating position with safety belt
Fasten your safety belt before each drive.
Airbags are an additional safety device and
work in conjunction with the safety belts,
but do not replace them.
Your vehicle is equipped with four seats,
each of which is provided with a safety belt.
At all times, occupants should sit
upright and be properly restrained –
infants and small children in appropriate
child-restraint systems; larger children and
adults using the safety belts.
Expectant mothers should always wear
their safety belts, taking care to position
the lap belt against the lower hips, where it
will not exert pressure against the abdominal area.
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.
Do not route the belt across your neck, or
run it across sharp edges. Be sure that the
belt does not become caught or jammed.
Avoid twisting the belt while routing it
firmly across the hips and shoulder; wear it
as snugly against your body as possible and
do not allow it to rest against sharp or fragile objects. Otherwise, the belt could slide
over your hips in the event of a frontal
impact and cause abdominal injury. Avoid
wearing bulky clothing and pull on the lap
belt periodically to retension it over your
shoulder. Otherwise, the safety belt's
restraint effectiveness could be reduced.<
For information on using the safety belts,
refer to page 35.
operating the vehicle. The seat could
respond with an unexpected movement,
and the ensuing loss of vehicle control
could lead to an accident.
While driving, do not recline the backrest
too far toward the rear. This especially
applies to the front passenger side. If you
do so, there is a risk that you will slide
under the safety belt in an accident, thus
reducing the protection provided by the
safety belt.<
Longitudinal adjustment
1. Lift the handle
2. Push the seat into the desired position
3. After releasing the handle, apply pressure to the seat to ensure that the latch
engages securely.
Height adjustment
1. To raise:
Pull the handle up repeatedly, continuing until the seat reaches the desired
height
2. To lower:
Push the handle repeatedly, continuing
until the seat reaches the desired height.
You can adjust the contour of the backrest
for additional support in the curvature of
your spine's lumbar region. The upper hips
and spinal column receive supplementary
support to help you maintain a relaxed,
upright posture.
Turn the wheel.
The contour is strengthened or weakened.
Backrest tilt
1. Pull up the lever at the inside of the seat
2. Apply weight to or remove weight from
the backrest as required
3. Release the lever so that the backrest
locks into place.
Adjusting
To raise: pull the head restraint upward.
To lower: press the button and push the
head restraint downward.
You can reduce the risk of spinal
injury and whiplash by adjusting the
head restraint to a height at which it is centered roughly at ear level.<
1. Pull up the head restraint, continuing
until it is at maximum extension
2. Press the button and remove the head
restraint at the same time.
Installation
1. Press the button and at the same time
insert the head restraint in the reception
points
2. Adjust the head restraint.
To avoid possible violation of traffic
laws, never retract the head
restraints unless the rear seats are empty.
Always ensure that the head restraints are
raised before transporting passengers in
the rear seat.<
Easy entry
The Easy entry function includes a memory
for the longitudinal seat and the backrest
positions.
1. Push down the lever at the outside of
the seat, arrow 1.
The backrest folds forward automatically
2. Push the seat forward, arrow 2.
Original position
Slide the seat back to its home posi-
tion before folding back the backrest,
otherwise the seat is latched in at its current position. In this case, adjust the longitudinal position manually, refer to
page 32.<
1. Push the seat back into its home posi-
tion
2. Fold the backrest back to the home posi-
tion to lock the seat.
When returning the seat to the rear
position, ensure that no one is
injured and that no objects are damaged.
Engage and lock both seats and backrests
into position prior to driving; otherwise
unexpected movement could increase the
risk of accident.<
Make sure you hear the lock engage in the
belt buckle.
Fasten safety belts: the warning
lamp lights up until after the safety
belt is fastened. An acoustic signal
sounds for several seconds.
To release
1. Press the red button in the belt buckle
2. Hold the belt
3. Guide the belt back into its reel.
Safety belt height adjustment
Use the height adjustment mechanism to
adapt the safety belt to the ideal position
for your own body:
Press the button and at the same time push
the entire unit upwards or downwards.
Also observe the instructions on adjusting
the seats on page 31.
Damaged safety belts
If the safety belts are damaged or
stretched in an accident: have the
safety belt system replaced by your MINI
Dealer and the belt anchors checked, otherwise the safety function can no longer be
guaranteed. If a child-restraint system was
in the vehicle during an accident, consult
the manufacturer's instructions regarding
replacement.<
The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated with the ignition key in position 2.
Select the temperature setting:
Press each button briefly.
Direct deactivation from the second temperature setting:
This mirror dims automatically as required.
The mirror becomes clear again when you
engage reverse gear or select position R on
the selector lever.
Keep the photocells free and clean to
ensure that the mirror functions perfectly.
There is one photocell in the mirror frame;
the other is on the back of the mirror.
Do not cover the area between the
inside rearview mirror and the wind-
shield, and do not place stickers or toll tags
on the windshield in front of the mirror.<
How the system functions
No doubt you have often reflected on how
great it would be if you could configure
your vehicle's various adjustment settings
to meet your own personal requirements.
In developing this vehicle, the manufacturer of the MINI has incorporated a number of options that you or your MINI Dealer
can program to suit your individual preferences.
What the system can do
Your MINI Dealer can provide you with
details on the capabilities of the Vehicle
Memory system.
Examples for Vehicle Memory:
>Automatic locking if none of the vehicle
doors are opened, refer to page 24
>Automatic locking after starting to drive,
refer to page 26
>Selective central locking system, refer to
pages 24, 25
>Convenience operation, refer to
pages 24, 25
>'Follow-me-home' lamps, refer to
page 48
>Daytime driving lamps, refer to page 49
>Speed-dependent windshield wipers,
refer to page 51
>Setting units for outside temperature
and fuel consumption display, refer to
page 57
>Setting units for display of temperatures
specified for automatic climate control
system, refer to page 71
>Volume control PDC, refer to page 64
>Acoustic alarm for starting PDC activa-
tion, refer to page 64.
This symbol alerts you to Vehicle
Memory functions in the Owner's
Manual.<
After memory functions have been
reconfigured, your vehicle may operate slightly differently from the descriptions used in this Owner's Manual. If you
decide to sell your MINI one day, please
remember to have the memory functions
reset to their default configuration.<
Children should always sit in the rear:
Accident research shows that the safest
place for children in a vehicle is in the rear
seat.
Older children should be tightly secured
with a safety belt, after they have outgrown a booster seat that is appropriate for
their age, height and weight.
A child sitting in the rear seat and not
properly restrained may place his or
her head on or near the airbag, if so
equipped. For example, a child – even
though belted – may fall asleep with his or
her head against the side airbag. It may be
difficult for a driver to ensure that children
in the rear seat will remain properly positioned at all times and do not place their
heads on or near the side airbag. Therefore,
we recommend that the rear side airbags, if
provided, be deactivated if you plan to
transport children in the rear seat.<
Child-restraint system in the rear
Children under 13 years of age and
children less than 5 ft / 150 cm tall
should always ride in the rear and the
restraint systems should be secured with
the vehicle's safety belts.<
Younger children should be secured in an
appropriate forward-facing child-restraint
system that has first been properly
restrained. We strongly urge you to carefully read and comply with the instructions
for installation and use provided by the
child-restraint's manufacturer whenever
you use such a device.
All rear seating positions in your vehicle
meet the recommendations of SAE J1819,
an industry-recommended practice for
securing child-restraint systems in motor
vehicles.
Exception for the front passenger seat
Never install a rearward-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger seat of this vehicle if the passenger's
airbag is not deactivated. If you do so, the
child could be severely injured or killed
when the airbag is triggered. Your vehicle is
equipped with an airbag supplemental
restraint system for the front passenger.
Because the backrest on any rearward-facing child-restraint system – of the kind
designed for infants under 1 year and
20 Ibs / 9 kg – would be within the airbag's
deployment range, you should never
mount such a system in the front passenger seat, since the impact of the airbag
against the child restraint's backrest could
lead to serious or fatal injuries.<
Before installing any child-restraint system
or child seat, read the following:
Always follow the manufacturer's
instructions concerning installation
and use; otherwise the system's protective
function could be impaired.
After an accident, have all parts of the
affected safety belt system inspected and/
or replaced by your MINI Dealer.<
Commercially available child-restraint systems are designed to be secured with a lap
belt or with the lap belt portion of a combination lap/shoulder belt. Improperly or
inadequately installed restraint systems
can increase the risk of injury to children.
Always read and follow the instructions
that come with the system.
Child seat security
All of the rear belt retractors and the front
passenger's safety belt can be locked for
mounting and securing child-restraint systems.
Information regarding this is located near
the buckle latch of each safety belt.
To lock the belt
Pull the entire length of the belt from the
belt retractor. Allow the reel to retract the
belt somewhat and engage the buckle,
then tighten the belt against the childrestraint system.
The retraction mechanism is now locked.
To unlock the belt
Release the buckle, remove the childrestraint system and allow the belt retractor to reel the belt completely in.
If you use a child-restraint system with a
tether strap:
Depending on the location selected for
seating in the rear passenger area, attach
the tether strap to the corresponding
anchorage point to secure the childrestraint system.
Both seating positions are fitted with a
head restraint.
Lift the head restraint and pass the tether
strap between the head restraint and the
seat back. It is recommended to readjust
the head restraint into the lowest possible
position.
Adjust the tether strap according to the
child-restraint manufacturer's instructions.
LATCH child-restraint mounting
system
Open the cover.
The illustration is an example showing the
mounts for the LATCH, Lower Anchors and
Tethers for CHildren, child-restraint mounting system at the right rear.
The system is also available at the left rear
position.
Canadian models only:
The LATCH anchorage points are identified
by buttons, see illustration.
Always follow all manufacturer's
instructions and observe all safety
precautions when installing the LATCH
child-restraint system.<
The key can be inserted or removed in this
position only.
To lock the steering:
1. Remove the key
2. Turn the steering wheel slightly to the
left or right until the lock engages.
A sound alarm goes off if the key remains in
the ignition after opening the driver's door.
Vehicles with Continuously Variable automatic Transmission (CVT):
Do not move the selector lever from
position P until the engine is running.
The ignition key cannot be turned to
position 0 and removed until the selector
lever is in position P, interlock.
1 Steering unlocked
Individual electrical accessories are ready
for operation.
You will find that it is often easier to turn
the ignition key from position 0 to
position 1 when you move the steering
wheel slightly to help disengage the lock.
2 Ignition switched on
All electrical accessories are ready for operation.
3 Starting the engine
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Step on the clutch when starting the
vehicle. A lockout prevents the engine from
starting if the clutch is not depressed.<
Do not let the engine warm up with
the vehicle at a standstill. Move off
immediately at a moderate engine speed.<
Do not allow the engine to run in
enclosed spaces. Breathing the noxious exhaust gases can lead to unconsciousness and death. The exhaust gases
contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and
colorless, but highly toxic gas.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended with
the engine running. This is a safety hazard.
When driving, standing at idle, and parking
the vehicle, take care to avoid contact
between the hot exhaust system and flammable materials, e.g. hay, grass, leaves, etc.
Such contact could lead to a fire resulting in
serious personal injury and property damage.<
When starting the engine, do not press the
accelerator pedal.
Do not actuate the starter for too
short a time. Do not turn it for more
than approx. 20 seconds. Release the ignition key immediately when the engine
starts.
Extended starting attempts, characterized
by excessively frequent or long periods
with the starter engaged, can lead to damage in the catalytic converter.<
If the engine does not start on the first
attempt, for instance if the engine is very
hot or cold:
When starting the engine, press the gas
pedal down halfway.
When first starting the engine at very low
temperatures, from +57 / –15 6:
When starting the engine, press the gas
pedal down halfway. For the initial start
attempt, allow the starter to remain
engaged somewhat longer, approx.
10 seconds.
Manual transmission
1. Engage the parking brake
2. Put the manual gearshift lever in neutral
3. Press the clutch pedal
4. Start the engine.
Move the gearshift lever to neutral
position and engage the parking
brake before leaving your vehicle with the
engine running.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended with
the engine running. This is a safety hazard.<
and engage the parking brake before
leaving your vehicle with the engine running.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended with
the engine running. This is a safety hazard.<
key when the vehicle is in motion, as
the steering lock could engage.
When you leave the vehicle, always remove
the ignition key and engage the steering
lock.
When you park on downward slopes,
engage the parking brake.<
Engage selector lever position P, turn the
ignition key to position 1 or 0.
The parking brake is designed primarily to
prevent the vehicle from rolling when it is
parked. It operates against the rear wheels.
To engage
Lever automatically locks in position.
The indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up from ignition key position 2,
refer to page 16.
To release
1. Pull up slightly
2. Press the button
3. Push the lever downwards.
If, in exceptional circumstances, it
should be necessary to engage the
parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, do not pull the lever with excessive
pressure. Keep your thumb pressed against
the release button while carefully pulling
the lever up to apply moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to overbraking
and loss of traction, i.e. fishtailing, at the
rear axle. The brake lamps do not come on
when the parking brake is engaged.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always engage the parking brake when
parking on hills and inclined surfaces, as
first gear or reverse may not provide adequate resistance to rolling.
Vehicles with CVT:
Place the selector lever in P.<
To avoid corrosion and one-sided
braking, apply the parking brake
lightly from time to time when coasting to
a standstill, for instance at a traffic light,
provided that it is safe to do so.<
When changing gear in the 5th/6th
gear plane, press the gearshift lever
to the right to prevent inadvertently shifting to a gear of the 3rd/4th gear plane.<
Reverse gear
Before selecting reverse gear, ensure the
vehicle is stationary; then, fully depress the
clutch pedal and pause briefly before moving the gearshift lever into position.
5-speed transmission:
Press the gearshift lever to the right and to
the back.
6-speed transmission:
Press the gearshift lever towards the left.
Thereby overcome the slight resistance and
press forward.
As you do this, the backup lamps will turn
on automatically when the ignition key is
in position 2.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or 'riding' the
clutch. Use the parking brake instead.
Riding the clutch causes the clutch assembly to wear out sooner.<
You can drive with a continuously variable
shifting CVT. In addition, you can also shift
manually.
When in manual selection mode, you have
the option of changing gears by using
either the selector lever or the shift paddles
on the steering wheel.
Under normal operating conditions, fuel
consumption is lowest when driving in
position D.
Selector lever positions
P R N D M/S + –
Range selection
Inadvertent engaging of certain selector
lever positions is prevented by a lock.
Press the button on the front side of the
selector lever knob. The lock is released.
While the vehicle is stationary, and
before shifting out of P or N, press the
brake pedal in order to disengage the selector lever lock mechanism, shiftlock.
If the engine speed is too high when the
vehicle is at a standstill, the selector lever is
also blocked to protect the transmission.
Hold the brake pedal down until starting
off. Otherwise the vehicle will 'creep' when
a drive position is engaged.<
To prevent the vehicle from starting
off on its own, always move the
selector lever to position P and engage the
parking brake before getting out of your
vehicle with the engine running.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended with
the engine running. This is a safety hazard.<
If the selector lever is not placed in
position P when the vehicle is parked,
the position display of the selector lever
stays on. This can lead to battery discharge.<
Select P only when the vehicle is completely
stopped. The transmission locks to prevent
the rear wheels from turning.
R Reverse
Select P only when the vehicle is completely
stopped.
N Neutral: idle
Select N only if your journey is interrupted
for a long period.
D Drive: CVT driving position
This position is designed for driving under
all normal operating conditions.
Kickdown
In 'kickdown' mode, you achieve maximum
acceleration and maximum speed in
position D.
Press the accelerator pedal past the
increased resistance point at the full-throttle position.
M/S + – Manual mode and Sport
program
Switch from D into M/S + –:
Activates the Sport program and displays
SD in the gear indicator in the speedometer.
Press selector lever once:
Shifts from the Sport program to the man-
ual mode.
Shifting with the selector lever
>Press selector lever briefly towards +:
Transmission shifts upwards
>Press selector lever briefly towards –:
Transmission shifts back.
1 to 6 appear in the gear indicator.
Shifting on the steering wheel*
The shift paddles allow the gears to be
changed rapidly and, above all, safely, since
both hands can remain on the steering
wheel.
Use one of the two shift paddles to shift
upwards or downwards:
>Pull shift paddle toward body:
Transmission shifts upwards
>Push shift paddle away from body:
Transmission shifts back.
1 to 6 appear in the gear indicator.
The transmission will only execute upshifts
or downshifts that will result in a plausible
combination of vehicle speed and engine
rpm, e.g. downshifts that would result in
excessive engine speed are not executed.
In order to accelerate rapidly in the
M/S + – Manual mode and in the
Sport program, e.g. when passing, shift
downwards manually or by kickdown.<
Whenever you want to return to automatic
shifting, just move the selector lever
toward the left to position D.
Switching from M/S + – Manual mode into
the selector lever positions P, R and N is
only possible via D.
Available displays
P R N D SD 1 2 3 4 5 6 EP
Electronic transmission control module
If there is a malfunction in the transmission
system, EP appears in the display.
All selector lever positions can still be
selected. In positions for driving forward:
the vehicle can now only be driven with a
limited gear selection.
Avoid high engine loads. Please proceed to the nearest MINI Dealer.<
Do not work in the engine compartment when a drive gear – forward or
reverse – is engaged. If you do this, the
vehicle could move.<
Jump-starting and towing, refer to
pages 126, 128.<
Turn to the first position. The front, rear
and side vehicle lighting is switched on.
Parking light on one side, refer to following
column.
Switching on the low beams
Turn to the second position. With the low
beams on and with the ignition switched
off, only the parking lamps will remain on.
'Follow me home' lamps
If you activate the headlamp flasher after
having switched off the engine and the
lights, the low beams will stay lit for a preset period of time.
You can have this function set by
your MINI Dealer.<
Standing lamps, left or right
For parking, you can activate lights on one
side of the vehicle. Observe local laws.
1. Turn the ignition key to position 0 or
remove the key
2. Switch on the low beams
3. Move the lever to the adequate turn signal indicator position.
'Lights on' warning
If the lights have not been switched off and
the ignition key is in position 0, an acoustic
signal sounds for a few seconds when you
open the driver's door to remind you that
the lights have not been switched off.
Daytime driving lamps*
If you desire, the light switch can be left in
position 2.
When the ignition is switched off, the car's
exterior lights go out.
The automatic headlamp range control for xenon lamps only operates
with the light switch in position 1 or 2.<
You can have the daytime driving
lamp function activated/deactivated
by your MINI Dealer.<
48
SIGNAL/HEADLAMP FLASHER INSTRUMENT LIGHTING FOG LAMPS
windshield wipers are automatically controlled depending on the amount of moisture, including snow, on the windshield.
To activate the rain sensor:
From ignition key position 1:
Lever in position 1.
The wipers move over the windshield once.
To deactivate the rain sensor:
Put lever in position 0.
Switch the rain sensor off when passing through an automatic car wash.
Failure to do so could result in damage
caused by undesired wiper activation.<
Normal wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the wipers
switch automatically to intermittent wiping.
You can have this function activated/
deactivated by your MINI Dealer.<
Fast wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the wipers
switch automatically to normal wiper
speed.
You can have this function activated/
deactivated by your MINI Dealer.<
Cleaning windshield and headlamps*
The system sprays washer fluid against the
windshield. The wipers are automatically
activated for a brief period.
When the vehicle lighting is on, the headlamps are also cleaned at appropriate intervals.
Do not use the washers if there is any
danger that the fluid will freeze on
the windshield. For this reason, use an antifreeze agent, refer to page 98
Do not use the washers when the reservoir
is empty, since this could cause damage to
the washing pump.<
Heated windshield washer jets*
The windshield washer jets are heated
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.
OVERVIEWREPAIRSOPERATIONCONTROLSDATAINDEX
Rear window wiper
6 Intermittent operation:
Turn the cap to position 6.
The rear window wiper moves across the
window a number of times before
switching to intermittent operation
On the multifunction steering wheel
and sports steering wheel
The vehicle maintains and stores any
desired speed when driving above approx.
20 mph / 30 km/h. Vehicles with manual
transmission must be driving in 3rd gear or
higher.
Do not use cruise control on twisting
roads, when high traffic density prevents driving at a constant speed, or when
the road surface does not permit driving at
a constant speed, e.g. due to snow, rain, ice,
loose surfaces.<
To activate via the multifunction
steering wheel
From ignition key position 1:
Press button 2.
The indicator lamp in the instrument clus-
ter lights up.
Cruise control is active.
To activate via the sports steering
wheel
1. Start the engine
2. Press button 2.
The indicator lamp in the instrument clus-
ter lights up.
Cruise control is active.
To deactivate
Press button 2 repeatedly until the indicator lamp goes out.
The cruise control is deactivated when the
ignition key is turned to position 0.
To set to zero:
With ignition key in position 1, press but-
ton 3 until the trip odometer is at zero.
2 Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in the
illustration, with the ignition key in
position 0, by pressing button 3 in the display elements.
Do not operate the engine with the needle
in the red overspeed zone of the gauge.
To protect the engine, the power is reduced
when you approach a certain engine speed
in this sector.
In the speedometer
If the indicator light 1 begins to be lit continuously, there are approx. 2.1 gallons /
8 liters of fuel in the tank.
Fuel tank capacity:
approx. 13.2 gallons / 50 liters.
When you switch on the ignition, the indicator lamp lights up briefly to confirm that
the system is operational.
If the angle of the vehicle varies, for example when you are driving in mountainous
areas, the needle may fluctuate slightly.
Refill the gas tank early. If you drive
to the last drop of fuel, engine func-
The onboard computer bases its calculations of the remaining distance on your
driving style in the period immediately preceding your data request. The remaining
distance display counts backwards in steps
of 35 miles / 50 km to the next service. A
flashing message and a minus sign in front
of the display that again begins counting
forwards mean that the service interval has
been exceeded.
Please contact your MINI Dealer for an
Remaining distance for service
The distance remaining before the next
scheduled service is displayed in miles /
kilometers with the ignition key in position
1 or higher. The display also indicates
whether an engine oil service and/or an
inspection is due.
appointment.
The remaining-distance display disappears
after approx. 5 seconds and changes to the
odometer and trip odometer display.
For more information on the service interval display, refer to page 102.
Settings
From ignition key position 1:
Left button: hours
Right button: minutes.
Move forward in increments:
Press the button
or
fast forward:
Press and hold the button.
Changeover from 24-hour to 12-hour
mode:
Press both buttons at the same time for
approx. 5 seconds.
With the ignition key in position 1 and higher,
you can use the button in the turn signal indicator lever to retrieve information from the
onboard computer for display in the tachometer. By pressing the button briefly, you can
call up a new function for display.
The displays appear in the following order:
Outside temperature, range, average consumption and current consumption, average speed and current speed.
Starting with ignition key position 1, the
last active setting is displayed.
If the vehicle is equipped with a navigation system, you will find more
information on the onboard computer in
the navigation system Owner's Manual.<
Outside temperature
If the vehicle is equipped with a tachometer, but not with an onboard computer, the
outside temperature is displayed.
You can have the units 6 or 7 set
by your MINI Dealer.<
Ice warning
If the outside temperature falls below
approx. 37 7 / +36, the onboard computer automatically switches to the outside
temperature display.
In addition, an acoustic signal can be heard
and the display flashes for a short time.
The ice warning does not exclude the
possibility that surface ice can form
at temperatures above 37 7 / +36, e.g.
on bridges and shaded roads.<
With navigation system option:
The temperature is displayed in the status
line of the navigation system, refer to the
Owner's Manual for the navigation system.
Current vehicle speed
If the vehicle is equipped with a tachometer, but not with an onboard computer, the
current vehicle speed is displayed.
With the ignition key in position 1 and
higher, you can use the button in the turn
signal indicator lever to call this up in the
tachometer display. Briefly press the button to switch the display from the outside
temperature to the current vehicle speed.
This system optimizes driving stability and
traction, especially when just starting off,
when accelerating or when cornering.
ASC recognizes the danger present in traction loss and will increase driving stability
and traction by reducing the engine's output and, if necessary, by applying the
brakes to the front wheels.
ASC is operational each time you start the
engine. It contains the following functions:
>Antilock Brake System (ABS)
>Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
>Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with ASC. An appropriate driving style always remains the
responsibility of the driver. Avoid using the
additional safety margin provided by the
system as an excuse for taking unnecessary
risks.
Do not make any modifications to the ASC
system. Allow only authorized technicians
to perform service procedures on the
ASC.<
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the display
elements will go out shortly after
the ignition has been switched on,
refer to pages 16, 17.
If the indicator lamp flashes:
ASC controls the drive and braking forces.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on during normal driving and stays on:
The system is defective or was turned off
using the button.
The described stabilizing operations are no
longer available.
You can, however, drive the vehicle normally without ASC.
In the event of a malfunction, please see
your MINI Dealer, refer to pages 16, 17.
OVERVIEWREPAIRSOPERATIONCONTROLSDATAINDEX
To switch off the ASC
Briefly press the switch.
The indicator lamp stays lit.
When driving with snow chains or to 'rock
free' in snow, it can be helpful to switch off
the ASC for a brief period.
To maintain vehicle stability, always
drive with the ASC switched on
whenever possible.<
To switch the ASC back on
Briefly press the switch once again.
Indicator lamp goes out.
This system optimizes driving stability and
traction, especially when just starting off,
when accelerating or when cornering. It
also maintains driving stability even in critical driving situations.
DSC recognizes unstable vehicle conditions,
such as understeering or oversteering, and,
as far as is possible within the laws of physics, helps keep the vehicle on a steady
course by reducing the rpms and by brake
applications to the individual wheels.
The DSC is operational every time you start
the engine. It contains the following functions:
>All Season traction Control (ASC)
>Antilock Brake System (ABS)
>Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
>Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. An appropriate driving style always remains the responsibility of the driver. Avoid using the additional safety margin provided by the system
as an excuse for taking unnecessary risks.
Do not make any modifications to the DSC
system. Allow only authorized technicians to
perform service procedures on the DSC.<
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the display
elements will go out shortly after
the ignition has been switched on,
refer to pages 16, 17.
If the indicator lamp flashes:
DSC controls the drive and braking forces.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on during normal driving and stays on:
The system is defective or was turned off
using the button.
The described stabilizing operations are no
longer available.
The vehicle will remain completely operational, however, without DSC.
In the event of a malfunction, please see
your MINI Dealer, refer to pages 16, 17.
To switch off the DSC
Briefly press the switch.
The indicator lamp stays lit.
When driving with snow chains, it may be
effective to switch off the DSC for a brief
period.
To maintain stability, always drive
with the DSC switched on whenever
possible.<
To switch the DSC back on
Briefly press the switch once again.
Indicator lamp goes out.
The ABS keeps the wheels from locking
while braking, thereby enhancing active
driving safety.
ABS also includes Electronic Brake Force
Distribution (EBD).
Braking with ABS
To achieve optimal performance from ABS
when reacting to critical situations, you
should apply maximum pressure to the
brake pedal – panic stop.
Since the vehicle remains maneuverable,
you can still go around any obstacles with
the smallest possible steering movements.
Pulsation of the brake pedal in conjunction
with the sound of hydraulic regulation indicates to you that you are driving at the limit
and reminds you to readapt your vehicle's
speed to road surface conditions.
Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
Cornering Brake Control (CBC) is an
enhancement of ABS that improves vehicle
stability especially when braking during
cornering.
When the vehicle is being braked, the rear
wheels are relieved from load, and this can
cause the vehicle to oversteer in curves.
CBC counteracts this by making use of unilateral braking pressure to generate a stabilizing counter torque while braking outside
of the ABS control range.
Electronic Brake Force Distribution
(EBD)
In order to achieve a short braking distance
when the vehicle is fully loaded, your vehicle is equipped with relatively large brakes
on the rear axle. EBV continuously monitors the speeds of the rear wheels in relation to the front wheels in order to prevent
overbraking of the rear wheels even when
the vehicle has a light load. If the rear
wheels tend to lock, the EBV controls their
slip, ensuring operating stability.
As you drive, the Flat Tire Monitor keeps
track of the tire inflation pressure in all four
tires. The system alerts you when there is a
substantial pressure loss in one of the tires
relative to another.
The tire inflation pressures are monitored
based on the speeds of the four wheels in
relation to one another. A flat tire is
detected as the result of differences in certain speed ratios, and a warning is generated.
System requirements
So that the system can 'familiarize' itself
with the correct inflation pressure, please
do the following:
1. Check the tire inflation pressure in all
tires
2. Compare them with the inflation pressure table, refer to page 88, and adjust
the pressures if necessary
3. Initializing the system.
System limitations
The Flat Tire Monitor cannot alert you
to severe and sudden tire damage
caused by external factors, nor does it
detect the gradual and minor loss of pressure in all four tires.<
On the other hand, the following situations
could lead to a delayed detection of pressure loss or to the system not functioning:
>Driving on snow-covered or slippery
roads
>Performance-oriented driving: slip at the
drive wheels, high rates of lateral acceleration
>When driving with snow chains, false
warnings and undetected pressure loss
may occur
>When driving with a space-saver spare
tire, the Flat Tire Monitor cannot function.
Initializing the system
The system must be re-initialized
immediately after changing a tire
and wheel, or after correcting the pressure
in any tire. This requires a bit of driving.<
1. Before a journey, start the engine, but do
not start driving
2. Press the button long enough for the
indicator lamp in the display elements to
light up for a few seconds
3. Drive off.
It takes a few minutes before the Flat Tire
Monitor can detect a flat tire and issue an
alert.
62
Do not initialize the system if you are
driving with snow chains or a space-
The indicator lamp in the display
elements flashes. In addition, an
acoustic signal sounds.
1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle with
caution. Avoid hard brake applications
and steering maneuvers
2. Determine which tire is damaged
If this cannot be determined, contact your MINI Dealer.<
3. Replace the damaged tire, refer to
Changing tires on page 117, or repair the
flat tire using the MINI Moblity System,
refer to page 121.
Vehicles with Run Flat tires:
1. Reduce vehicle speed carefully to under
50 mph / 80 km/h. Avoid hard brake
applications and steering maneuvers.
Do not exceed a speed of 50 mph /
80 km/h
Since Run Flat tires are reinforced
on the flanks, it is usually not possible to detect a loss of pressure from
the outside, refer to Run Flat tires on
page 93.<
2. To continue driving, follow the instructions on driving with damaged tires on
page 93.
System malfunction
Indicator lamp:
The symbol in the instrument cluster lights up. The Flat Tire Monitor
is malfunctioning or out of order.
The PDC assists you when you back into a
parking space. A signal tone tells you the
current distance to an object behind your
vehicle. To do this, four ultrasonic sensors
in the rear bumper measure the distance to
the nearest object.
The sensors on each side have a range of
approx. 2 ft / 60 cm, the middle sensors
one of approx. 5 ft / 1.5 m.
PDC is a parking aid that can identify
objects if they are approached slowly,
as is generally the case when parking.
Avoid driving towards objects rapidly; due
to underlying physical principles, the system may otherwise alert you too late for
you to take evasive steps.<
Automatic function
With the ignition key in position 2, the system starts to operate automatically about
one second after you select reverse gear or
place the selector lever in position R.
Wait for this one second before you
drive backwards.<
The system is deactivated when you shift
away from Reverse.
You can have a signal tone set by your
MINI Dealer as a confirmation that
PDC has been activated.<
Acoustical signals
The distance to an object is indicated by a
tone sounding at intervals. As the distance
between vehicle and object decreases, the
intervals between the tones become
shorter. A continuous tone indicates the
presence of an object less than 8 in / 20 cm
away.
The warning signal is canceled after
approx. three seconds if the distance to the
object remains constant during this time,
for instance if you are moving parallel to a
wall.
Malfunction
System malfunctions will be indicated by a
continuous high-pitched tone when the
system is activated the first time. Please
have your MINI Dealer resolve the problem.
Volume control
The volume of the Park Distance Control
signal can be adjusted from level 1, soft, to
level 6, loud.
The volume can be set by your MINI
Dealer.<
System limitations
Even with PDC, final responsibility for
estimating the distance between the
vehicle and any objects always remains
with the driver.
Even when sensors are involved, there is a
blind spot in which objects cannot be detected. Recognition of some objects can be
beyond the limits of physical ultrasonic
measurement, for example with towing
bars or hitches or with thin or wedgeshaped objects. Moreover, low objects that
have already been detected, such as a curb
edge, can disappear out of the range of the
sensors before a continuous tone sounds.
Loud sources of sound outside and inside
your vehicle can drown the PDC signal
tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free of ice
or snow in order to ensure that they
will continue to operate effectively.
Do not apply high pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Always maintain a distance which is
greater than 4 in / 10 cm.<
The front airbags supplement the safety belts
by providing additional protection for the
driver and front passenger in the event of a
frontal collision in which the protection
afforded by the belts alone may no longer be
sufficient.
When needed, the head and side airbags help
to furnish protection in the event of side
impact.
Each of the side airbags is designed to help
support the seat occupant's upper body.
The airbags are designed to not be triggered in certain types of collisions, e.g. in
minor accidents, certain kinds of vehicle
rollover and rear impact.
For information on the ideal seating position,
refer to page 31.
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them
or modify them in any other way. Do not fit
covers, cushions or other items to the front
seats that have not been specially approved
for seats with side airbags. Do not hang clothing, e.g. jackets, over the backrests.
Do not attempt to remove the airbag
restraint system from the vehicle. Do not
make any changes yourself to the individual
components and wiring. This includes the
padded covers of the steering wheel, instrument panel and roof supports, as well as the
sides of the roofliner and the original backrest covers on the front seats. Do not attempt
to remove or dismantle the steering wheel.
Do not touch the individual components
directly after the system has been triggered,
as otherwise there is a danger of burns. In the
event of malfunctions, immobilization or use,
i.e. triggering, of the airbag restraint system
in accordance with its intended function,
please commission a MINI Dealer with the
inspection, repair or disassembly. Unprofessional attempts to service the system could
lead to failure in an emergency or undesired
airbag activation, either of which could result
in personal injury. In view of the applicable
safety regulations, please arrange for your
MINI Dealer to dispose of the airbag generators.<
Airbag warning information is also provided on the sun visors.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the display
elements shows the status of the
entire airbag system and the seat
belt tensioners starting from ignition key
position 1.
System operational:
>The indicator lamp comes on briefly.
System malfunction:
>The indicator lamp does not come on
starting from ignition key position 1
>The indicator lamp stays lit
>The indicator lamp lights up while driving.
the airbags from deploying in
response to a severe impact occurring
within the system's normal triggering
range. Please have the airbag system
checked as soon as possible by your MINI
Dealer.
You can select blower speeds
from 1 to 4. Position 0: fan is
turned off. The button for recirculated air mode fully blocks the
supply of air from outside.
Heating and ventilation operate as of
position 1.
Temperature
Turn to the right, red, to increase
the temperature of the passenger compartment.
Rapid heating: turn to the
extreme right. Then select a pleasant interior temperature.
Air distribution
Air distribution in upper body
region , upper body region
and footwell , footwell ,
footwell and windows , and
windows .
All intermediate positions are possible,
refer to illustration and overview on
page 67.
Rear window defroster
Rear window defroster switched
on:
Indicator lamp lights up.
As long as the indicator lamp is lit, the
heating operates at high power output:
rapid defrosting.
Indicator lamp goes out.
The heating continues to run with reduced
power output and then switches itself off
automatically.
Windshield heating*
Windshield heating switched on:
Indicator lamp lights up.
As long as the indicator lamp is
lit, the heating operates at high power output: rapid defrosting.
Indicator lamp goes out.
The heating continues to run with reduced
power output and then switches itself off
automatically.
Air conditioning
Air conditioner switched on: indicator lamp lights up.
The air is cooled and dehumidified and – depending on the temperature
setting – rewarmed.
Condensation on the windows is reduced
when the air conditioning is turned on.
When the air conditioner is operat-
ing, condensation is formed which
then exits under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water on the ground are therefore
normal.<
Recirculated air mode
Supply of outside air into the
vehicle is blocked:
Indicator lamp lights up.
The air within the vehicle is recirculated.
Do not run the recirculated air mode
over a longer period of time, as the air
quality in the vehicle's interior will otherwise diminish.<
If the windows fog up in the recircu-
lated air mode, turn the recirculated
air mode off and if necessary increase the
air supply.<
The microfilter removes dust and pollen
from the incoming or recirculated air.
Your MINI Dealer will replace it during routine maintenance. A substantial reduction
in the air supply indicates that the filter
must be replaced before scheduled maintenance.
OVERVIEWREPAIRSOPERATIONCONTROLSDATAINDEX
Draft-free ventilation
Air supply for the upper body area:
Button 1: air outlets can be opened and
closed by turning.
The points indicate the position in each
case.
Nozzle 2: change the direction of the airflow by swiveling.
Defrosting and demisting windows
1. Set the rotary blower speed control for
the airflow rate to position 4
2. Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the right, red
3. Rotary switch for air distribution in position .
Condensation is removed from the windows more quickly by activating the air
conditioning
4. To defrost the rear window: switch on
the rear window defroster and, if
required, the windshield heating.
Indicator lamp lights up.
Automatic adjustment of the air distribution and supply, and adaptation of the
specified temperatures to external influences, i.e. outside temperature and sunlight.
In the automatic program (AUTO), the air
conditioner is activated automatically.
You can change the unit from 6 to
7 by keeping extended pressure on
the button.<
Switching the automatic climate
control on/off
The blower, heating and air condi-
tioner are switched off.
To switch the automatic climate control on
again: Press any button of the automatic
climate control.
Air conditioning
Air conditioner switched on: indi-
cator lamp lights up.
The air is cooled and dehumidified and –
depending on the temperature setting –
rewarmed.
In the automatic program (AUTO), the air
conditioner is activated automatically.
Condensation on the windows is reduced
when the air conditioning is turned on.
Condensation forms in the air condi-
tioning system during operation, and
then exits under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water on the ground are therefore
normal.<
Recirculated air mode
Supply of outside air into the vehi-
cle is blocked: indicator lamp lights
up.
The air within the vehicle is recirculated.
In the automatic program (AUTO) in hot
weather conditions, the recirculated air
mode is activated temporarily to enable
faster cooling.
Do not run the recirculated air mode
over a longer period of time, as the air
quality in the vehicle's interior will otherwise diminish.<
If the windows fog up in the recirculated air mode, turn the recirculated
air mode off and if necessary increase the
air supply.<
Rear window defroster and windshield
heating*
Rear window defroster and wind-
shield heating switched on:
Indicator lamp lights up.
As long as the indicator lamp is lit, the
heating operates at high power output –
rapid defrosting.
Indicator lamp goes out.
The heating continues to run with reduced
power output and then switches itself off
automatically.
Temperature
Setting the temperature:
Move or turn the wheel in the
appropriate direction to increase
the temperature step by step.
The figures in the display provide a general
indication of interior temperature. When
you start the vehicle, the system ensures
that the selected temperature is achieved
as quickly as possible and then maintained.
Permanent heating with maximum
power output at temperature selec-
Press the left or right half of the
button: the air supply varies.
Defrosting and demisting windows
Press the button briefly.
The indicator lamp flashes.
Ice and condensation are rapidly removed
from the rear window, windshield and side
windows. Condensation is removed from
the windows more quickly by activating the
air conditioning.
The rear window defroster/windshield
heating is switched on automatically. It can
be switched off again separately.
Press the button for a longer period.
The indicator lamp stays lit. Permanent air
supply to the windshield and side windows.
The air supply can be directed both to the
windows and to the footwell simultaneously.
The rear window defroster/windshield
heating is switched off.
Individual air distribution
Combine the air distribution your-
self. This switches off the auto-
matic program.
Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen
from the incoming or recirculated air. The
activated-charcoal filter provides additional protection by filtering gaseous pollutants from the outside air.
Your MINI Dealer replaces this combined
filter as a standard part of your scheduled
maintenance. A substantial reduction in
the air supply indicates that the filter must
be replaced before scheduled maintenance.
Draft-free ventilation
Air supply for the upper body area:
Button 1: air outlets can be opened and
closed by turning.
The points indicate the position in each
case.
Vent 2: change the direction of the airflow
by swiveling.
A second 12 V socket is on the left-hand
side of the cargo area.
When the vehicle is equipped with a MINI
Mobility System, the 12 V socket is also for
supplying the compressor.
74
Ashtray
The ashtray is located in one of the beverage holders in the center console.
In the rear, an ashtray can also be fitted in
the beverage holder at the end of the center console.
Beverage holders
There are two beverage holders at the front
of the center console. Another is located at
the end of the center console in the rear.
From ignition key position 1:
Press the cigarette lighter in.
Remove as soon as the lighter jumps back
out.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding or
touching it in other areas could result in
burns.<
Cigarette lighter socket, 12 V power
supply
Suitable for attaching power supplies for
flashlights, car vacuum cleaners, etc., up to
a rating of approx. 200 watts at 12 volts.
Avoid damaging the socket with plugs of
different shapes or sizes.
When the tailgate is opened, the cargo area
cover is also raised.
Never place any heavy or hard objects
on the cargo area cover; otherwise
occupants could be injured during braking
maneuvers.<
OVERVIEWREPAIRSOPERATIONCONTROLSDATAINDEX
Removal
To load bulky luggage, the compartment
cover can be removed.
1. Remove the retaining straps on the tail-
gate
2. Pull the cargo area cover out towards
the rear.
Foldable rear backrest
1. Pull lever
2. Fold the rear backrest forwards.
When folding the backrest back into
its original position, always ensure
that the catch engages securely. A loose
backrest might fail to prevent cargo from
entering the passenger compartment during sudden braking or evasive maneuvers,
posing a potential hazard to occupants.<
the permitted load on the tires is not
exceeded. Overloading can lead to overheating and damage inside the tires.
Depending on the circumstances, this can
result in sudden air loss.<
Determining cargo limit
1. Locate the following statement on your
vehicle's placard:
The combined weight of occu-
pants and cargo should never
exceed XXX kg or YYY lbs, as this could
otherwise result in damage to the vehicle and unstable driving conditions.<
2. Determine the combined weight of the
driver and passengers that will be riding
in your vehicle
3. Substract 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 lbs.
passengers in your vehicle, the amount
of available cargo and luggage load
capacity is 800 lbs.:
1,400 lbs. minus 600 lbs. = 800 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,
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.
ble, directly behind the backrests, and as
low as possible
>Cover sharp edges and corners
>Do not pile objects higher than the top
edge of the backrest
>For very heavy cargo when the rear seat
is unoccupied, fasten each safety belt in
the opposite buckle. This provides additional stabilization for the rear backrests.
Securing the load
>Secure smaller and lighter items using
the cargo area net
>For large, heavy items, see your MINI
Dealer for load-securing devices
ing eyes are provided at the inner corners
of the cargo area for attaching these
load-securing devices.
Comply with the information enclosed
with the load-securing devices.
carefully. If you do not, it can endanger the passengers during braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the permissible gross weight
and axle load, refer to page 134; otherwise
the vehicle's operating safety is no longer
assured and it will not be in compliance
with the certification regulations.
Do not stow heavy or hard objects in the
passenger compartment without first
securing them. Otherwise they would be
thrown around during braking and evasive
maneuvers and endanger the occupants.<
When loading a roof-mounted lug-
gage rack, ensure that there is sufficient space for the movement of the glass
sunroof and that no objects protrude into
the swiveling area of the tailgate, as otherwise damage can occur.<
Do not secure the roof-mounted lug-
gage rack to the trim panels/strips:
the lack of a secure hold could lead to damage or accidents.<
Special roof-mounted luggage racks
for your MINI are available as accessories from your MINI Dealer.<
To ensure that your vehicle provides maximum economy throughout a long service
life, we request that you comply with the
following information:
Engine
Up to 1,250 miles / 2,000 km:
>Drive at various vehicle and engine
speeds
>Do not exceed an engine speed of
4,500 rpm or a vehicle speed of 95 mph /
150 km/h.
>Absolutely avoid using the full-throttle
or kickdown position for the accelerator.
Up to 1,250 miles / 2,000 km:
Engine and road speeds can be gradually
increased.
You should also comply with these break-in
procedures if the engine has to be replaced
at a later point.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated with
their manufacture, tires do not achieve
their full traction potential until after an
initial break-in period. Therefore drive carefully during the first 200 miles / 300 km.
Brake system
Approx. 300 miles / 500 km must be driven
before the brake pads and rotors achieve
the optimum pad-surface and wear patterns required for trouble-free operation
and an extended service life.
Clutch
Roughly 300 miles / 500 km must be driven
before the clutch starts to operate at optimum efficiency. Remember to engage the
clutch carefully during this initial period.
Condensation forms in the air conditioner
system during operation, and then exits
under the vehicle. Traces of condensed
water on the ground are therefore normal.
Brakes
Do not rest your foot on the brake
pedal while driving. Even light but
consistent pedal pressure can lead to high
temperatures, brake wear and possibly
even brake failure.<
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 surface. This phenomenon is characterized by a partial or complete loss of contact between the tires and the road surface.
The ultimate results are loss of steering and
braking control.<
Driving through water
Do not drive through water on the
road if it is 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.<
Clothes hooks
When suspending clothing from the
hooks, ensure that they will not
obstruct the driver's vision. Do not hang
heavy objects on the hooks. If you do so,
they could cause personal injury during
braking or evasive maneuvers.<
High temperatures
High temperatures occur in any vehi-
cle equipped with a catalytic converter. Do not remove the heat protection
plates fitted in the area of the exhaust system and do not apply body-cavity protectant to this area. When driving, standing
at idle, and parking the vehicle, take care to
avoid contact between the hot exhaust system and flammable materials, e.g. hay,
grass, leaves, etc. Such contact could lead
to a fire resulting in serious personal injury
and property damage.<
Always switch off the engine before
refueling. If you do not, fuel cannot
be filled into the tank and the SERVICE
ENGINE SOON lamp may come on.<
1. Open the fuel filler door
2. Turn the gas cap counterclockwise
3. Put the gas cap in the bracket attached
to the fuel filler door.
Always observe all applicable precau-
tions and regulations when handling
fuels. Never carry spare fuel containers in
your vehicle. Whether empty or full, these
containers can leak, cause an explosion,
and lead to fire in the event of a collision.<
Unlocking manually
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
the gas cap can be unlocked manually.
1. Remove the side trim panel on the lefthand side of the cargo area.
Remove the first aid pouch
2. Pull the white lever toward the rear.
The central locking system releases the
gas cap
3. Open the fuel filler door.
Simple and environmentally friendly
Always observe all safety precautions
posted at the service station when
handling fuel.<
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Pulling the
nozzle out of the pipe during refueling:
>Results in premature pump shutoff
>Will reduce the effect of the fuel vapor
recovery system on the pump.
As long as the filler nozzle is used properly,
the fuel tank is full whenever the nozzle
shuts off the first time.
Approx. 13.2 gallons / 50 liters, of which
approx. 2.1 gallons / 8 liters are reserve
capacity.
Close the gas cap carefully after refu-
elling until a click is heard.
While closing, be sure not to squeeze the
strap which is fastened to the cap.
US models only:
A loose or missing cap will activate the
message CHECK GAS CAP in the Check Control
* or the Check Gas Cap lamp*.<
Do not drive until the fuel tank is
totally empty. Otherwise engine
operations are not guaranteed and damage
could occur.<
The engine uses lead-free gasoline only.
Required fuel:
>Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI.
AKI = Anti Knock Index.
Do not use leaded fuels. The use of
leaded fuels will cause permanent
damage to the emissions-control system's
oxygen sensor and the catalytic converter.<
If the brake fluid level is too low and brake
pedal travel has become longer, there may
be a defect in one of the brake system's
hydraulic circuits.
Proceed to the nearest MINI Dealer.
Higher brake application pressure
may be necessary under these conditions,
there may be a slight pull to one side, and
brake pedal travel may be longer. Please
remember to adapt your driving style
accordingly.<
Disc brakes
When the vehicle is driven only occasionally, during 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 of the brake rotors and
accumulation of contamination on the
brake pads. This occurs because the minimal pressure that must be exerted by the
pads to clean the rotors by brake applications is not reached.
Corrosion on brake rotors is signaled by a
running or pulsation during braking; even
extended subsequent braking will not cure
this phenomenon.
It is a good idea to periodically dry the
brakes with a gentle application when driving in rain and on wet roads. Monitor traffic
conditions to ensure that this maneuver
does not endanger other road users. The
resulting heat dries the brake rotor and the
brake pads. Then if braking effect is
needed, it is immediately available.
Extended or steep mountain descents
should be driven in the gear or in the driving position in which only minimal periodic
brake application is required. This helps
avoid placing excessive loads on the brake
system. Stay within the allowable speed
range, refer to page 54.
Do not coast with the clutch pressed
or with the transmission or selector
lever in Neutral. Do not coast with the
engine switched off. The engine provides
no braking effect when the transmission is
in Neutral, and there is no power-assist for
braking when the engine is switched off.<
Brake pads
Brake pad sensors in the left brake pads of
the front axle and in the right brake pads of
the rear axle monitor the brake pad condition. When the brake pads reach the wear
limit, the brake wear warning lights up,
refer to page 16.
For your own safety: use brake pads
which the manufacturer of your MINI
has approved for your particular vehicle
model. The manufacturer of your MINI cannot evaluate non-approved brake pads to
determine if they are suitable for use, and
therefore cannot ensure the operating
safety of the vehicle in the event of their
use.<
It is not merely the tire's service life, but
also driving safety and driving comfort that
depend on the condition of the tires and
the maintenance of the specified tire pressure.
Check tire inflation pressures regu-
larly, including the space-saver spare
tire: at least twice a month and before long
journeys. Failure to observe this precaution
can result in incorrect tire pressures, which
cause unstable handling response as well
as tire damage, and can ultimately lead to
an accident. Do not drive with deflated, i.e.
flat, tires except if Run Flat tires are fitted.
A flat tire greatly impairs steering and braking response, and can lead to complete loss
of control over the vehicle.<
Checking tire inflation pressures
Check the tire inflation pressures only on
cold tires. This means after driving a maximum of 1.25 miles / 2 km or when the vehicle has been parked for at least 2 hours.
Warm tires have higher pressures.
After correcting the tire inflation
pressure, reinitialize the Flat Tire
Monitor, refer to page 62.<
Tire inflation pressures for original
tires
The tire inflation pressures in psi and kilopascal are given on the placard on the B-pillar that is visible when the driver's door is
open.
Inflation pressures for other tires
In the following tire pressure table, all pressures are specified in the psi / kilopascal
units of pressure and apply to tires at ambient temperature.
In order to determine the correct
inflation pressures for your tires,
refer to the values for the tire size in question.<
OVERVIEWREPAIRSOPERATIONCONTROLSDATAINDEX
Checking the inflation pressure on the
space-saver spare tire
Behind the bumper there is a valve extension accessible from the outside for checking the inflation pressure.
Run Flat tires
Run Flat tires consist of self-contained tires
and special rims. The tire reinforcement
ensures that the tire offers some residual
safety in the event of pressure drop and
driving remains possible to a restricted
degree, refer to page 93. The vehicle is
equipped with Flat Tire Monitor, refer to
page 62.
195/55 R 16 87 H
195/55 R 16 87 H M+S
205/45 R 17 84 V
MINI COOPER
MINI COOPER S
All-season tires, M+S, should be inflated to the same pressures as summer tires. Figures as stated here apply to the manufacturer's
approved or recommended tires; your MINI Dealer will be happy to provide information on request.
205/45 R 17 84 V M+S
175/65 R 15 84 Q M+S
175/60 R 15 82 Q M+S
195/55 R 16 87 Q M+S
205/45 R 17 84 Q M+S
Space-saver spare tire T 115/70 R 15 90 M61 / 42061 / 42061 / 42061 / 420
195/55 R 16 87 V
195/55 R 16 87 V M+S
205/45 R 17 84 V
205/45 R 17 84 Q M+S
205/45 R 17 84 V M+S
195/55 R 16 87 Q M+S
Knowing the tire code on the tire's sidewall
makes it easier for you to choose and identify the correct tires.
Tire size
e.g.205/45 R 17 84 V
Nominal width in mm
Cross-sectional
ratio in %
Radial belt construction
Rim diameter in inches
Load index,
not on ZR tires
Speed code letter,
in front of the R on ZR tires
Speed code letters:
Q= bis 105 mph / 160 km/h
T= up to 118 mph / 190 km/h
H= up to 131 mph / 210 km/h
V= up to 150 mph / 240 km/h
W= up to 167 mph / 270 km/h
Tire Identification Number
Tires with DOT codes meet the guidelines
of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends replacing all tires, including the
space-saver spare tire, regardless of actual
wear, after 6 years at the latest.
The date on which the tire was manufactured is indicated by the code on the sidewall:
DOT … 3603 indicates that the tire was
manufactured in Week 36 of the year 2003.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread
shoulder and maximum section width.
For example:
DOT quality grades
Treadwear 200
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 government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear
one and one-half, 1 γ 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,
however, and may depart significantly
from the norm due to variations in driving
habits, service practices and differences in
road characteristics and climate.
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 surfaces 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, cornering, hydroplaning, or
peak traction characteristics.<
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.
Sustained high temperature can cause the
material of the tire to degenerate and
reduce tire life, and excessive temperature
can lead to a sudden flat tire. 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 separately or in combination, can
cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.<
RSC Run Flat tires
You will recognize Run Flat tires by a circular symbol containing the letters RSC on
the side of the tire, refer to page 93.
M+S
Winter and all-season tires.
These have better winter performance
properties than summer tires.
Inspect your tires frequently for tread wear,
signs of damage and for foreign objects
lodged in the tread. Check the tread depth.
The tread depth should not fall below
1/8 in / 3 mm.
Below 1/8 in / 3 mm tread pattern depth,
there is an increased risk of hydroplaning,
even at relatively moderate speeds and
with only small amounts of water on the
road.
Below a tread depth of 1/6 in / 4 mm, winter tires display a perceptible decrease in
their ability to cope with winter driving
conditions, and should be replaced in the
interest of safety.
Wear indicators in the tread-groove base,
arrow, are spread around the circumference of the tire and are marked on the side
wall of the tire with TWI, Tread Wear Indicator. The indicators in the tread indicate at
1/16 in / 1.6 mm tread depth that the
legally permitted wear limit has been
reached.
Tire damage
Unusual vibrations while driving can
indicate tire damage or other damage to the vehicle. This may be caused, for
example, by driving over a curb. This is also
true for abnormalities in the vehicle's handling characteristics, such as a pronounced
tendency to pull to the left or right. Should
this occur, respond by immediately reducing your speed. Proceed carefully to the
nearest MINI Dealer or professional tire
center, or have the vehicle towed there to
have its wheels and/or tires inspected or
controlled. Tire damage – up to and including blowouts – can endanger the lives of
both the vehicle occupants and other road
users.<
to service tires can lead to damage
and accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled professionals only. Your MINI Dealer will be glad
to assist you with both their expertise and
the proper equipment for your vehicle.<
The correct wheel and tire combination
also affects various systems that would
otherwise be impaired, e.g. ABS or DSC.
Have the wheels balanced after each tire or
wheel replacement.
The manufacturer of your MINI rec-
ommends that you avoid using
retread tires, as this could impair driving
safety. This is due to the possible variations
in casing structures and, in some cases, to
their extreme age, which can lead to a
decrease in their durability.<
The correct wheels and tires
The manufacturer of your MINI rec-
ommends never mounting wheels
and tires that have not been specifically
approved by the manufacturer for use on
your particular model. Although other
wheels and tires may theoretically have the
same dimensions, variations in factors such
as manufacturing tolerances can result in
contact between tire and bodywork, ultimately leading to serious accidents. The
manufacturer of your MINI cannot evaluate
non-approved wheels and tires to determine if they are suited for use, and therefore cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are fitted.<
Recommended tire makes:
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single tread
configuration from a single manufacturer.
In the event of a flat tire, remount the previous wheel and tire combination as soon
as possible.
Run Flat tires:
If your MINI is equipped with Run Flat tires
– refer to Run Flat tires – use only these
tires, since no space-saver spare tire may be
available in the event of a flat.
Special characteristics of winter tires
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends winter tires for driving in adverse
winter road conditions. While all-season
tires with the M+S designation provide better winter traction than summer tires, they
generally do not achieve the full performance of winter tires.
For mounting winter tires, refer to the
descriptions under Tire condition, page 91,
and Wheel and tire replacement.
Run Flat tires:
If your MINI is equipped with Run Flat tires
– refer to Run Flat tires – use only these
tires, since no space-saver spare tire may be
available in the event of a flat.
Observing speeds:
Never exceed the maximum speed
for which the winter tires are rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to service tires can lead to damage and accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled professionals only. The technicians at your MINI
Dealer will be glad to assist you with the
required professional knowledge and specialized equipment.<
Storage
Store tires in a cool, dry place, protecting
them against light whenever possible. Protect the tires against contact with oil,
grease and fuel. Do not exceed the maximum tire inflation pressure specified on
the tire sidewall.
You will recognize Run Flat tires by a circular symbol containing the letters RSC on
the side of the tire. Run Flat tires consist of
self-contained tires and special rims. The
tire reinforcement ensures that driving
remains possible to a restricted degree in
the event of a pressure drop or even a flat
tire.
When mounting or replacing summer
Run Flat tires with winter tires, or vice
versa, use Run Flat tires again since no
space-saver spare tire is available in the
event of a flat. In this event, the manufacturer of your MINI recommends consulting
your MINI Dealer. Your MINI Dealer has the
necessary special equipment and expertise
for handling Run Flat tires.<
Continuing driving with a damaged
tire
Depending on the load, you can continue
driving with Run Flat tires at a maximum
speed of 50 mph / 80 km/h.
If there is a total loss of tire inflation pressure, 0 psi / 0 kPa, or obvious tire damage,
you can gauge the mileage for continued
driving on the basis of the following indications:
>With a light load:
1 to 2 persons without luggage:
approx. 155 miles / 250 km
>With a medium load:
2 persons, full cargo area, or
4 persons without luggage:
approx. 95 miles / 150 km
>With a full load:
4 persons or more, full cargo:
approx. 30 miles / 50 km.
Drive cautiously. Do not exceed a
speed of 50 mph / 80 km/h. In case of
tire pressure loss you must expect changes
in vehicle handling such as lower track stability during braking, longer braking distances and changes in self-steering properties when close to the handling limit.
For safety reasons, the manufacturer of
your MINI recommends not having damaged Run Flat tires repaired. In this case,
consult your MINI dealer.<
Tire change set
Your MINI is additionally equipped with a
tire change set. This is located in the MINI
COOPER in the cargo area under the floor
mat.
In the MINI COOPER S the tire change set is
located in a separate bag which is attached
to the eyelets on the cargo area floor by
means of tie-down straps.
When changing a tire, always observe the
safety measures on page 116, and follow
the procedure described on page 117 ff.
In case of a flat tire, the tire change
set is not needed, since your MINI has
Run Flat tires.<
Only certain types of snow chains have
been tested by the manufacturer of your
MINI, classified as road-safe and approved.
Contact your MINI Dealer for more details.
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends that you use only these approved
fine-link snow chains. Their use is only permitted in pairs on the front wheels on winter tires of the following types:
>175/65 R 15 M+S
>175/60 R 16 M+S.
When fitting, comply with the manufacturer's instructions. With chains, do not
exceed a speed of 30 mph / 50 km/h.
Do not initialize the Flat Tire Monitor
after attaching snow chains to the
tires.
When driving with snow chains, it can be
helpful to switch off the ASC or DSC for a
brief period, refer to pages 59, 60.<
cle if you do not have the required
technical background. Before working in
the engine compartment, switch off the
engine and allow it to cool down. Before
working on the electrical system, always
disconnect the battery first. For all work on
the vehicle, comply with the appropriate
information and instructions. If you are not
familiar with the guidelines, the manufacturer of your MINI recommends that you
have the service work performed by your
MINI Dealer. Otherwise, work improperly
carried out on the parts and components
can pose a safety hazard for vehicle occupants and other road users.<
To unlock
Pull the lever in the right door area beneath
the instrument panel.
OVERVIEWREPAIRSOPERATIONCONTROLSDATAINDEX
To open
1. Reach under the bonnet
2. Pull the release lever
3. Open the bonnet.
To close
Allow the bonnet to fall from a height of
approx. 1 ft / 30 cm.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the bonnet is clear
when it is closed, as with all closing procedures.
If it is determined that the bonnet is not
completely closed while driving, stop
immediately and close it securely, also refer
to page 16.<
As with fuel economy, oil consumption is
directly influenced by your driving style and
vehicle operating conditions.
The oil volume between the two notches –
MIN, MAX – on the dipstick corresponds to
approx. 1.1 quarts / 1 liter. Do not fill
beyond the upper notch on the dipstick.
Excess oil will damage the engine.
98
Headlamp* and windshield washer
system
The capacity of the headlamp washer system is approx. 2.6 quarts / 2.5 liters, that of
the windshield washer system approx.
2.1 quarts / 2.0 liters.
Fill with water and, if required, with anti-
freeze, according to manufacturer's recommendations.
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to the
reservoir.<
Antifreeze agent for the washer sys-
tems is flammable. Always keep it well
away from sparks and open flames, and store
it in tightly closed containers well out of the
reach of children. Always observe the instructions for use provided on the container.<
The illustration shows as an example the
dipstick of the MINI COOPER.
Measuring the oil level
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface
2. Switch the engine off after it has
reached normal operating temperature
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 must be between the two
marks on the dipstick.
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