Mini Cooper 2004 User Manual

OWNER'S MANUAL
A-Z
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
MINI COOPER MINI COOPER S
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW MINI
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.

CONTENTS

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
NOTES
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
© 2003 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Munich, Germany Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the written consent of BMW AG, Munich. Order No. 01 41 0 157 644 US English VIII/03 Printed in Germany Printed on environmentally friendly paper, bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.
OVERVIEW
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
2
Driving:
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 87 Tire coding 89 Tire condition 91 Wheel and tire replacement 92 Run Flat tires 93 Snow chains 94
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CONTENTS
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
In the engine compartment:
Bonnet 95 Engine compartment: MINI COOPER 96 Engine compartment: MINI COOPER S 97 Washer fluid 98 Engine oil 98 Coolant 100 Brake fluid 101
Maintenance and care:
MINI Maintenance System 102 Caring for your vehicle 103 Vehicle storage 105
Laws and regulations:
OBD socket 106 California Proposition 65 warning 107
OWNER SERVICE PROCEDURES
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 110 Windshield wiper blades 110 Lamps and bulbs 111 Repairing a flat tire 116 Changing tires: MINI with space-saver
spare tire 117 MINI Mobility System 121 Battery 124 Fuses 125
Giving and receiving assistance:
Jump-starting 126 Towing 128
TECHNICAL DATA
Engine data 132 Dimensions 133 Weights 134 Capacities 135
4
INDEX
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Everything from A to Z 138
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
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NOTES

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG

About this Owner's Manual

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.
*
.
6
NOTES
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG

Editorial notice

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.
<
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
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NOTES
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Parts and accessories
For your own safety, use genuine
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.
8
NOTES
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG

Reporting safety defects

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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG

OVERVIEW

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
CONTROLS
OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE
OWNER SERVICE PROCEDURES
TECHNICAL DATA
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
Overview
INDEX
11

COCKPIT

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
12
1>Parking lamps/Low beams 48
>
Turn signal indicators 49
>
Standing lamps 48
>
High beams 49
>
Headlamp flasher 49
>
Onboard computer 57
2 Washer/wiper system 50 3 Instrument lighting 49 4 Outside mirror adjustment 36 5 Hazard warning flashers
6 Bonnet release 95 7 Horn 18 8 Adjusting steering wheel 36 9 OBD interface socket 106

DISPLAY ELEMENTS

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OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
1 Tachometer 54
with indicator and warning lamps, page 15 ff
2 Display for onboard computer 57
If there is no onboard computer: Display of outside temperature and cur­rent vehicle speed
3 Speedometer with indicator and warning
lamps, page 15 ff
4 Indicator for
>
Odometer 54
>
Trip odometer 54
>
Service interval 56
>
Program display for Continuously Vari­able automatic Transmission (CVT) 47
5 Trip odometer, reset to zero 54
6 Fuel gauge 54 7 Engine coolant temperature gauge 55
13
DISPLAY ELEMENTS WITH NAVIGATION SYSTEM
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
*
14
1 Tachometer 54
with indicator and warning lamps, page 15 ff
2 Additional indicator and warning lamps,
page 16 ff, display for onboard computer in navigation system, refer to separate Owner's Manual
3 Speedometer with indicator and warning
lamps, page 15 ff
4 Trip odometer, reset to zero 54
5 Indicator for
>
Odometer 54
>
Trip odometer 54
>
Service interval 56
>
Program display for Continuously Vari­able automatic Transmission (CVT) 47

INDICATOR AND WARNING LAMPS

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Technology that monitors itself
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.
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INDICATOR AND WARNING LAMPS
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Yellow: stop immediately
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
the navigation system.
<
16
INDICATOR AND WARNING LAMPS
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Yellow: check as soon as possible
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.
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MULTIFUNCTION STEERING WHEELS
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Steering wheels with multifunctions
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
player operation are not available.<
MULTIFUNCTION STEERING WHEELS*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
5 Fast forward/rewind
>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
Sports steering wheel
1 Call up and continue cruise control 2 Store and accelerate cruise control 3 Activate/interrupt/deactivate cruise
control
4 Store and decelerate cruise control
stop fast forward Extended pressure: fast forward
player operation are not available.<
6 Volume
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
If the Wave radio is installed, the above options for cassette
19
20
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OVERVIEW
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG

CONTROLS

OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE
OWNER SERVICE PROCEDURES
TECHNICAL DATA
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
Controls
INDEX
21

KEYS

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
The key set of your MINI consists of three keys.
1 Two master keys with remote control
If the battery is discharged, please consult your MINI Dealer. For
changing the battery, refer to the next section.<
2 Spare key
For keeping in a safe place, e.g. in your wallet. This key is not intended for con­stant use
Changing battery
Replace if it is no longer possible to unlock the vehicle via the remote control.
Only use a battery of the type speci­fied on the battery, CR 2032, and
make absolutely sure that it is fitted in the correct position.<
1. Apply a screwdriver at the recess
2. Use the screwdriver to lever out the
cover.
Initializing the master key with remote control
When you activate a master key with remote control – for example a replace­ment or additional key, or after a battery change – it must be initialized.
This initialization can be performed in two ways:
Press button or button , refer to page 24, four times in succession
or if the vehicle is unlocked:
1. Switch the ignition on briefly, position 2, and then off
2. Within 10 seconds, press button
and button , refer to page 24, in suc-
cession.
In the event of a system malfunction, please contact your MINI Dealer. You
can also obtain replacement keys and bat­teries there.<
22
Return used batteries to a recycling point or your MINI Dealer.<

CENTRAL LOCKING SYSTEM OPENING AND CLOSING: FROM OUTSIDE

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
The concept
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
the user's authority to operate this equip­ment.<
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OPENING AND CLOSING: FROM OUTSIDE
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.
24
OPENING AND CLOSING: FROM OUTSIDE
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Malfunctions
External systems or devices may cause local interference in the functions of the remote control.
In this case, unlock the vehicle via the door lock.
Via the door lock
1. One turn of the key in the driver's door lock unlocks the driver's door only
2. Turning the key a second time unlocks the other door, the tailgate and the fuel filler door.
You can have this function activated/ deactivated by your MINI Dealer.<
If the vehicle has been properly locked, the hazard warning system flashes once. When the vehicle is unlocked, the hazard warning system flashes twice
*.
Manual operation
In the event of electrical malfunction: The driver's door can be locked or unlocked
by turning the key in the door lock all the way to the left or right.
Convenience closing via the door lock
You can also close the power windows and the glass sunroof via the door lock.
With the door closed, hold the key in the locking position.
You can have the closing of the win­dows and glass sunroof via the door
lock activated/deactivated.<
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25

OPENING AND CLOSING: FROM INSIDE

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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:
to unlock first and then open.
26

TAILGATE

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OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
To open from the outside
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.
27

ELECTRIC POWER WINDOWS

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
To open and close windows
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.<
1. Close the doors
2. Close both windows
3. Hold both switches of the power win-
dows up for approx. one second.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your MINI Dealer.<
28

GLASS SUNROOF, ELECTRIC*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
To prevent injuries, exercise care
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
29
GLASS SUNROOF, ELECTRIC* ROLLER SUN BLIND*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Pinch protection
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
2. Engage the handle in the device, arrow 2.
30

SAFE SEATING POSITION

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
31

SEAT ADJUSTMENT

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Important adjustment information
Never try to adjust your seat while
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.
32

SEAT ADJUSTMENT HEAD RESTRAINTS

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
Lumbar support*
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.<
33

HEAD RESTRAINTS ENTRY TO THE REAR

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Removal
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.<
34

SAFETY BELTS SEAT HEATING*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
To close
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:
Press the button for a longer period.
35

STEERING WHEEL MIRRORS

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
36
Do not adjust the steering wheel while the vehicle is moving; other-
wise unexpected movement could increase the risk of accident.<
Adjusting
1. Push the locking lever downward
2. Adjust the desired steering wheel posi­tion
3. Pull the lever back in.
Outside mirror adjustment
1 Switch for choosing between the left and
right mirror
2 Switch for 4-way adjustment
Manual adjustment
The mirrors can also be adjusted manually: Press the edge of the lens.
Electric heating*
Both mirrors are heated automatically when the ignition key is in position 2.
Interior rearview mirror
To reduce glare from vehicles behind you when you are driving at night:
Tilt the lever forward.
Illuminated vanity mirror
From ignition key position 1:
1. Fold down the sun visor
2. Fold the cover panel upwards.
Sun visors
Can be swung sideways.

MIRRORS VEHICLE MEMORY

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Interior mirror, automatic dimming*
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.<
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
37

TRANSPORTING CHILDREN SAFELY

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
The proper place for children
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.<
38
TRANSPORTING CHILDREN SAFELY
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Installing child-restraint systems
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
39
TRANSPORTING CHILDREN SAFELY
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
40
Child-restraint system with tether strap
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.<

IGNITION LOCK STARTING THE ENGINE

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
0 Steering locked
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.<
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
41
STARTING THE ENGINE
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Starting
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.<
Continuously Variable automatic Transmission (CVT)
1. Press the footbrake
2. Put the selector lever in position P or N
3. Start the engine.
Move the selector lever to position P
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.<
42
SWITCHING OFF THE ENGINE PARKING BRAKE
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
You should never remove the ignition
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.<
Manual transmission
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Continuously Variable automatic Transmission (CVT)
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.<
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
43

MANUAL TRANSMISSION

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
6-speed transmission*
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.<
44

CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (CVT)*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.<
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
45
CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (CVT)*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
P Park
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.
46
CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (CVT)*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.<
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
47

PARKING LAMPS/LOW BEAMS

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Switching on the parking lamps
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
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
1 Turn signal indicator:
Green indicator lamps and periodic click­ing sound from the relay
2 High beams/Headlamp flasher:
Blue indicator lamp
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond the point of resistance.
If the blinking of the indicator lamp and the clicking from the relay are
both faster than normal: one of the turn signal indicators has failed.<
To control the instrument lighting, press the button.
To increase the illumination intensity
Keep the button pressed until the desired brightness is reached.
To decrease the illumination intensity
Press the button briefly. With each brief pressing of the button, the illumination intensity is reduced in steps.
When the parking lamps/low beams are switched on: Briefly press the switch upwards or down­wards.
Briefly press once again to switch off.

Fog lamps*

Fog lamps switched on: Green light-emitting diode in the switch lights up.
Rear fog lamp*
Rear fog lamp switched on: Yellow light-emitting diode in the
switch lights up. Observe all legal regulations concerning the use of fog lamps.
49

INTERIOR LAMPS WASHER/WIPER SYSTEM

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Footwell and cargo area lamps
These lamps are controlled in the same way as the interior light.
Switching the reading lamps on and off
Press button 2.
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
Light-emitting diodes installed behind
translucent lenses serve as the light The interior light is controlled automati­cally.
Switching the interior lamps on and off manually
Press button 1 briefly.
Permanently turn off interior light: Press button 1 until the interior light comes
on briefly. To reverse this condition, repeat the proce-
dure.
sources for many of the controls and dis-
plays in your vehicle. These light-emitting
diodes are related to conventional lasers,
and legislation defines them as light-emit-
ting diodes, Class 1.
Do not remove the protective lens and avoid staring directly at the unfil-
tered beam for several hours, as inflamma-
tion of the retina could result.<
0 Wipers parked 1 Intermittent operation or rain sensor 2 Normal wiper speed 3 Fast wiper speed 4 Brief wipe 5 Clean windshield and headlamps
Intermittent operation
Not on vehicles with rain sensor. The interval time for the wipers is depen-
dent on the vehicle speed.
50
Rain sensor*
The rain sensor is located on the wind­shield, directly in front of the interior rear­view mirror. When the rain sensor is activated, the
WASHER/WIPER SYSTEM
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
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
Cleaning rear window
7 Intermittent operation:
Turn the cap to position 7 and hold in place
8 In lever position 0:
Turn the cap to position 8 and hold in place
51

CRUISE CONTROL*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.
The stored speed is cleared.
52
CRUISE CONTROL*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
To maintain and store speed or to accelerate
Press button 3. The system maintains and stores the cur-
rent vehicle speed. Every time you tap the button, the speed increases by approx. 1 mph / 2 km/h.
Press and hold button 3. The vehicle accelerates without pressure on
the accelerator pedal. When you release the button, the system maintains and stores the current speed.
If, on a downhill gradient, the engine
braking effect is not sufficient, the controlled speed may be exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill grades if the engine out­put is insufficient.<
To decelerate
Press button 4. If you are already driving with active cruise
control, the speed is decreased by approx. 1 mph / 2 km/h every time you briefly tap the button.
Press and hold button 4. With the cruise control active, the system
automatically reduces the throttle opening to slow the vehicle. When you release the button, the system maintains and stores the current speed.
To cancel the cruise control
The cruise control is automatically can­celed:
>When the brakes are applied >When the clutch pedal is depressed >If the cruise speed is either exceeded or
not met for an extended length of time, for example if you press the accelerator pedal and exceed the stored speed.
The indicator lamp stays lit. You can use the cruise control again as required.
On the multifunction steering wheel, the cruise control can be interrupted manually:
When the system is activated, press button 2.
To continue cruise control
Press button 1. The vehicle accelerates to and maintains
the last speed stored.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
53

ODOMETER TACHOMETER FUEL GAUGE

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
54
1 Trip odometer
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-
tions are not guaranteed and damage can occur.<

FUEL GAUGE COOLANT TEMPERATURE GAUGE

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
1 Red indicator lamp
When you switch on the ignition, warning lamp 1 comes on briefly to confirm that the system is operational.
Lights up while driving: Engine is too hot. Switch off the engine immediately and allow it to cool down.
Navigation system option
In the navigation system
Please also comply with the instruc­tions in the previous section.<
If the indicator light 1 changes from orange to red, there are approx. 2.1 gallons / 8 liters of fuel in the tank.
Low temperature
The needle is at the bottom or on the right of the range.
The engine is still cold. Drive at moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
Center position
Normal operating temperature of the engine.
High temperature
As soon as there is a deviation from the center position upwards or to the left:
Drive moderately and at low engine speed. If necessary, switch off the engine and allow it to cool down.
Checking coolant level, refer to page 100.
Engine is too hot. Switch off the engine immediately and allow it to cool down.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
Coolant temperature warning lamp in the speedometer lights up while driving:
55

SERVICE INTERVAL DISPLAY CLOCK

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.
56

ONBOARD COMPUTER*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Mode selection
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
57
ONBOARD COMPUTER*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Range
The onboard computer bases its calcula­tions for the cruising range on the driving style and on the remaining fuel in the tank.
If the range displayed is less than
35 miles / 50 km, be sure to refuel; otherwise engine functions are not guaran­teed and damage could occur.<
Average speed, average fuel consumption
Press the button in the turn signal indicator lever for a longer period.
The displayed average speed value and consumption value are recalculated.
Any time spent when the vehicle is station­ary and the engine is shut off is ignored for the calculation.
You can have an other unit of mea-
surement set by your MINI Dealer.<
Current fuel consumption
The current consumption value is calcu­lated and displayed on the basis of your driving style.
You can have a different unit of mea­surement set by your MINI Dealer.<
58

ALL SEASON TRACTION CONTROL (ASC)*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
The concept
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
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.
59

DYNAMIC STABILITY CONTROL (DSC)*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
The concept
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.
60

ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
The concept
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
61

FLAT TIRE MONITOR

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
The concept
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-
saver spare tire.<
FLAT TIRE MONITOR
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Flat tire
Indicator lamp:
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.
Please contact your MINI Dealer.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
63

PARK DISTANCE CONTROL (PDC)*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
The concept
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.<
64

AIRBAGS

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
1 Side airbags in seatback on the driver
and passenger side: front
2 Head airbags on the driver and passenger
sides for both rows of seats: front/rear
3 Front airbags on the driver and passen-
ger sides
Protective effect
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
65
AIRBAGS
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
A system malfunction could prevent
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.
<
66

AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
1 Air onto the windshield and onto the
side windows 2 Air for the upper body area 69 3 Air for the front and rear footwells
4 Temperature 68 5 Windshield heating 68 6 Blower for air supply 68 7 Air conditioning 68
8 Air distribution 68 9 Recirculated air mode 68
10 Rear window defroster 68
67
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Air supply
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.<
68
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Microfilter*
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
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.
69

AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
70
1 Air onto the windshield and onto the
side windows 2 Air for the upper body area 72 3 Air for the front and rear footwells 4 Rear window defroster and windshield
heating 71
5 Interior temperature sensor,
please keep clear and unobstructed 6 Recirculated air mode 71 7 Air conditioning 71 8 Automatic air distribution and
supply 71 9 Switching the automatic climate control
on/off 71
10 Temperature 71 11 Display for temperature and air
supply 71 12 Blower for air supply 72 13 Defrosting and demisting the wind-
shield and side windows 72 14 Individual air distribution 72
AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Automatic air distribution and supply
Automatic program (AUTO):
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-
tion HI. Permanent cooling at LO.<
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71
AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Air supply
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.
72

GLOVE COMPARTMENT

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OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
To open: Pull the handle.
The light goes on.
To close: Fold the door up.
To prevent injury in the event of an accident, close the glove compart-
ment immediately after use.<
Ventilation
Turn the rotary switch to a horizontal posi­tion:
The vents are open.
Turn the rotary switch to a vertical position, see arrow:
The vents are closed.
Depending on the temperature set-
ting of the air conditioning or the automatic climate control, high tempera­tures may result in the glove compart­ment.<
73

ASHTRAY, DRINKS HOLDERS CIGARETTE LIGHTER, 12 V POWER SUPPLY

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.

CARGO AREA

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Cargo area cover
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.<
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
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.<
75

LOADING CARGO

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that
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.
76
LOADING CARGO
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OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
Stowing cargo
>Place heavy cargo as far forward as possi-
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.
* or elastic straps
*. Lash-
77

ROOF-MOUNTED LUGGAGE RACK*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Always position and secure the load
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.<
78
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80
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
OVERVIEW
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
CONTROLS
OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE
OWNER SERVICE PROCEDURES
TECHNICAL DATA
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

Operation

INDEX
81

BREAK-IN PROCEDURES

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.
82

GENERAL DRIVING NOTES

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Parking the vehicle
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.<
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83

REFUELING

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.
84

REFUELING FUEL SPECIFICATIONS

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Close the tank
1. Put on gas cap
2. Turn gas cap clockwise until it clicks
3. Close fuel filler door. Fuel tank capacity:
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.<
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85

BRAKE SYSTEM

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Brake fluid level
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.<
86

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Information for your safety
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.<
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
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.
87
TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Model Tires
Pressures specified in psi / kilopascal
175/65 R 15 84 H 175/65 R 15 84 Q M+S
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 M 61 / 420 61 / 420 61 / 420 61 / 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
175/60 R 16 82 Q M+S 36 / 250 36 / 250 41 / 280 41 / 280
30 / 210 35 / 240 35 / 240 35 / 240
30 / 210 30 / 210 35 / 240 35 / 240
33 / 230 33 / 230 38 / 260 38 / 260
30 / 210 30 / 210 35 / 240 35 / 240
33 / 230 33 / 230 38 / 260 38 / 260
88

TIRE CODING

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.
DOT code: e.g. DOT xxxx xxx 3603 Manufacturer's code
for tire make Tire size and
tire version Tire age
Tire age
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.
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TIRE CODING
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified govern­ment test 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.
90

TIRE CONDITION

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Tire tread
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.<
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91

WHEEL AND TIRE REPLACEMENT

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Unprofessional attempts by laymen
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.
92

RUN FLAT TIRES*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.<
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93

SNOW CHAINS*

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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.<
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BONNET

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Do not attempt to service your vehi-
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.
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
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.<
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ENGINE COMPARTMENT: MINI COOPER

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
96
1 Reservoir for windshield washer
system 98
2 Coolant expansion tank 100
3 Engine oil filler neck 99 4 Battery 124 5 Brake fluid reservoir 101
6 Reservoir for headlamp cleaning
system 98
7 Engine oil dipstick 98

ENGINE COMPARTMENT: MINI COOPER S

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX
1 Reservoir for windshield washer
system 98
2 Coolant expansion tank 100
3 Engine oil filler neck 99 4 Auxiliary terminal for jump-
starting 126
5 Brake fluid reservoir 101
6 Reservoir for headlamp cleaning
system 98
7 Engine oil dipstick 98
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WASHER FLUID ENGINE OIL

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 644 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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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