2008 Mini Cooper Convertible Owners Manual

3. Subtract the combined weight of the

driver and passenger from XXX kilo- grams or YYY pounds

96

LOADING CARGO

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

edges of the backrests.

For very heavy cargo when the rear seat is unoccupied, fasten each safety belt in the opposite buckle. This provides additional stabilization for the backrests.

Securing the load As an example, the illustration shows the luggage compartment of the MINI. >Secure smaller and lighter items using the luggage compartment net* or elas- tic straps

>Secure larger and heavier items with

load-securing devices*. Lashing eyelets are provided at the inner corners of the luggage compartment for attaching these load-securing devices. Comply with the information enclosed with the load-securing devices.

97

LOADING CARGO

ROOF-MOUNTED LUGGAGE RACK*

Always position and secure the load as described above. If you do not, it

When loading a roof-mounted lug- gage rack on the MINI, make sure

can pose a danger to the passengers during braking and evasive maneuvers, for exam- ple. Do not exceed the permissible gross weight and axle load, refer to page 155 ff; other- wise the vehicle's operating safety is no longer assured and it will not be in compli- ance 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.<

that there is sufficient space for the move- ment of the glass sunroof and that no objects protrude into the swiveling area of the tailgate; otherwise damage can occur. Do not secure the roof-mounted luggage rack to the MINI's trim strips or to the MINI Convertible top. Otherwise, the lack of a secure hold could lead to damage or acci- dents.<

Special roof-mounted luggage racks for your MINI are available as acces-

sories from your MINI Dealer.<

98

W

99

100

OVERVIEW

CONTROLS

OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE

OWNER SERVICE PROCEDURES

TECHNICAL DATA

INDEX

101

Operation

BREAK-IN PROCEDURES

GENERAL DRIVING NOTES

Moving parts need to be given some time until they can interact smoothly with one another. To ensure that your vehicle pro- vides maximum economy throughout a long service life, we request that you com- ply with the following information:

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 care- fully during the first 200 miles/300 km.

Engine Comply with the local speed limits. Up to 1,250 miles/2,000 km: Drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do not exceed the following: 4,500 rpm or 95 mph / 150 km/h. Absolutely avoid putting the accelerator in full-throttle or kickdown position. After 1,250 miles/2,000 km: Engine and road speeds can be gradually increased.

Brake system Approx. 300 miles/500 km must be driven before the brake pads and rotors achieve the optimum pad-surface and wear pat- terns 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 opti- mum efficiency. Remember to engage the clutch carefully during this initial period.

After a part replacement You should again comply with these break- in procedures if parts mentioned above have to be replaced later in the vehicle's life.

Interior mirror, automatic dimming* While the vehicle is being driven forward, these mirrors dim light through an infi- nitely variable range depending on the light's incidence. Two photocells in the interior rearview mirror serve this purpose. One is positioned on the underside of the mirror frame, while the other is slightly off- set on the back of the mirror. In order for the photocells to work opti- mally, keep them clean and do not cover the area between the interior rearview mir- ror and the windshield. Do not place stick- ers or toll tags on the windshield in front of the mirror.

102

GENERAL DRIVING NOTES

Safe braking Your vehicle is equipped with ABS as a stan- dard feature. If you are in a situation which requires full braking, it is best to brake using maximum brake pressure. Since the vehicle remains maneuverable, you can still go around any obstacles with the smallest possible steering movements. The pulsation of the brake pedal, together with the sound of hydraulic regulation, indicates to you that ABS is actively taking effect.

Wet roads: It is a good idea to periodically dry the brakes with a gentle application when driv- ing in rain and on wet roads. Monitor traffic conditions to ensure that this maneuver does not hinder other road users. The resulting heat dries brake rotors and pads. Then if the braking force is needed, it is immediately available.

Driving downhill:

To prevent overheating and the resulting reduced efficiency of the

brake system, drive down extended or steep mountain gradients in the gear which requires the least brake applications. Otherwise, even light but consistent pres-

sure on the brake can lead to high tempera- tures, brake wear and possibly even brake failure.<

The braking effect of the engine can be increased by downshifting in the manual mode of the automatic transmission, to first gear if necessary, refer to page 58. This protects the brakes from excessive loads.

Do not coast with the clutch depressed, the transmission in idle or

the engine switched off. Otherwise, the engine provides no braking effect, and there is no power-assist for braking or steering. Make sure that there are no floor mats, floor carpets or other objects in the vicinity of the pedals; otherwise pedal function could be impeded.<

Corrosion on the brake rotors: When the vehicle is driven only occasion- ally, 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 ten- dency for corrosion of the brake rotors and accumulation of contamination on the brake pads. This occurs because the mini- mal pressure that must be exerted by the

pads to clean the rotors by brake applica- tions 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.

Brake pads

Sensors in the left front and right rear brake pads monitor pad condi- tion. When the brake pads have worn to the permissible limit, this is indi- cated by the brake wear warning light, refer to page 18.

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 char- acterized by a partial or complete loss of contact between the tires and the road sur- face. The ultimate results are loss of steer- ing and braking control.<

103

GENERAL DRIVING NOTES

Mobile communications in the vehicle The manufacturer of your MINI rec- ommends that you do not use mobile devices, e.g. mobile phones, inside the vehi- cle without directly connecting them to an outside antenna. Otherwise, interference between the vehicle electronics and the mobile device cannot be ruled out. In addi- tion, it is not ensured that the radiation emitted during mobile transmission will be directed outside of the vehicle.<

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.<

Use the parking brake on inclines

Do not hold the vehicle in place on slopes by slipping or 'riding' the

clutch. Use the parking brake instead. Oth- erwise, a high degree of clutch wear could result.<

104

Clothes hooks

Close the tailgate

Drive the vehicle only when the tail- gate is completely closed. Otherwise, exhaust fumes could penetrate the interior of the vehicle.<

Should it be absolutely necessary to drive with the tailgate open: 1. Close all windows as well as the glass sunroof or the sliding sunroof of the MINI Convertible

2. Sharply increase the air supply for the

heater, the air conditioning or the auto- matic climate control, refer to page 82 or 85.

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, they could injure the occupants during braking or evasive maneuvers.<

Hot exhaust system

High temperatures occur in every vehicle's exhaust system. 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 flam- mable materials, e.g. hay, grass, leaves, etc. Such contact could lead to a fire resulting in serious personal injury and property dam- age. Do not touch hot exhaust pipes. Other- wise there is a risk of burns.<

Parking the vehicle Condensation forms in the air conditioning system during operation, and then exits under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water on the ground are therefore normal.

REFUELING

Observe the following when refueling 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.

Closing the gas cap 1. Insert gas cap 2. Turn gas cap clockwise until it clicks 3. Close fuel filler door.

Insert the cap and turn it clockwise until it audibly clicks.

Do not jam the strap between the gas cap and the vehicle. The following message is displayed if the cap is loose or missing.<

US models only:

The warning lamp* comes on. The gas cap is not correctly closed or missing. Check if the gas cap is

correctly closed.

Fuel tank volume Approx. 13.2 gallons/50 liters, of which approx. 2.1 gallons/8 liters are reserve capacity.

Do not drive until the fuel tank is totally empty. Otherwise engine

operations are not guaranteed and damage could occur.<

Fuel quality

Do not fill the tank with leaded gaso- line; otherwise the catalytic con-

verter will be permanently damaged. Do not fill the tank with E85, i.e. fuel contain- ing 85 % ethanol, nor with flex fuel. Other- wise the engine and fuel supply system will be damaged.<

Required fuel Super Premium gasoline/AKI 91

Always switch off the engine before refueling; otherwise no fuel can be

added to 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- tionary measures and regulations

when handling fuels. Do not carry any spare fuel containers in the vehicle. They can leak and cause an explosion or fire in the event of an accident.<

105

you respond by switching to a recognized high-quality brand such as gasoline that is advertised as Top Tier Detergent Gasoline. Failure to comply with these recommenda- tions may result in unscheduled mainte- nance.<

Manual release with the MINI In the event of an electrical malfunction, the fuel filler door can be unlocked manu- ally. 1. Remove the side trim panel on the left- hand side of the luggage compartment

2. Pull the white lever toward the rear.

The fuel filler door is released

3. Open the fuel filler door.

REFUELING

This gasoline is highly recommended. However, you may also use gasoline with less AKI. The minimum AKI rating is 87. If you use gasoline with this minimum AKI rating, the engine may produce knocking sounds when starting at high outside tem- peratures. This has no effect on the engine life.

Use high-quality brands Field experience has indicated significant differences in fuel quality: volatility, com- position, additives, etc., among gasolines offered for sale in the United States and Canada. Fuels containing up to and includ- ing 10% ethanol or other oxygenates with up to 2.8% oxygen by weight, that is, 15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an equivalent amount of co-solvent, will not void the applicable warranties with respect to defects in materials or workmanship.

The use of poor-quality fuels may result in driveability, starting and

stalling problems especially under certain environmental conditions such as high ambient temperature and high altitude. Should you encounter driveability prob- lems which you suspect could be related to the fuel you are using, we recommend that

106

REFUELING

Manual release with the MINI Convertible In the event of an electrical malfunction, the fuel filler door can be unlocked manu- ally. 1. Remove the cover of the side trim panel

on the left-hand side, see arrow 1

2. Pull the green strap toward the rear, see

arrow 2. The fuel filler door is released

3. Open the fuel filler door.

107

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE

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 pres- sure.

Checking tire inflation pressures Check the tire inflation pressures only on cold tires. This means after driving a maxi- mum of 1.25 miles/2 km or when the vehi- cle has been parked for at least 2 hours. Warm tires have higher pressures.

Check the tire inflation pressures reg- ularly and correct them, if necessary,

including the space-saver spare tire: at least twice a month and before an extended trip. Otherwise, incorrect tire pressures can cause driving instability or tire damage, ultimately resulting in acci- dents. Do not drive with deflated, i.e. flat, tires except if Run-Flat Tires are fitted. A flat tire greatly impairs steering and brak- ing response, and can lead to complete loss of control over the vehicle.<

After correcting the tire inflation pressure, reinitialize the Flat Tire

Monitor*, refer to page 74 or reset the Tire Pressure Monitor*, page 76.<

108

Tire inflation pressures for original tires The tire inflation pressures for your stan- dard tires are shown on the driver's-side door post, visible when the door is open.

Checking the inflation pressure on the space-saver spare tire Behind the bumper there is a valve exten- sion accessible from the outside for check- ing the inflation pressure.

Tire inflation pressures for other tire sizes In the following tire pressure table, all pres- sures are given for the specified tire sizes at ambient temperature.

Tire size The tire inflation pressures apply to the tire sizes approved and the tire brands recom- mended by the manufacturer of your MINI. Your MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you.

In order to determine the correct inflation pressures for your tires,

refer to the values for the tire size in ques- tion.<

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE

Model

Tire size All pressure specifications in the table are indicated in psi/kilopascal with cold tires. Cold = ambient temperature

Traveling speeds

175/65 R 15 84 H M+S A/S 175/65 R 15 84 H 195/55 R 16 87 V M+S A/S 195/55 R 16 87 H M+S A/S, Convertible only 195/55 R 16 87 H 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S A/S 205/45 R 17 84 V 175/60 R 15 84 H M+S 175/60 R 16 82 H M+S 195/55 R 16 87 H M+S 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S 205/40 R 18 82 W Space-saver spare tire: T 115/70 R 15 90 M

MINI COOPER/ MINI COOPER Convertible

Pressures specified in psi/kPa

up to 100 mph/

160 km/h

above 100 mph/

160 km/h

30/210

30/210

30/210

30/210

35/240

35/240

33/230

33/230

33/230

33/230

38/260

38/260

61/420

61/420

61/420

61/420

109

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE

Model

Tire size All pressure specifications in the table are indicated in psi/kilopascal with cold tires. Cold = ambient temperature

Pressures specified in psi/kPa

Traveling speeds

195/55 R 16 87 V M+S A/S 195/55 R 16 87 V 195/55 R 16 87 H M+S 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S A/S 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S 205/45 R 17 84 V 175/60 R 16 82 H M+S 205/40 R 18 82 W 195/55 R 16 87 V M+S A/S 195/55 R 16 87 V 195/55 R 16 87 H M+S 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S A/S 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S 205/45 R 17 84 V 175/60 R 16 82 H M+S 205/40 R 18 82 W

MINI COOPER S

MINI COOPER S with John Coo- per Works Kit*

up to 100 mph/

160 km/h

above 100 mph/

160 km/h

30/210

30/210

30/210

30/210

35/240

35/240

33/230

33/230

33/230

33/230

38/260

38/260

35/240

35/240

35/240

35/240

39/270

39/270

36/250

36/250

36/250

36/250

41/280

41/280

32/220

32/220

32/220

32/220

35/240

35/240

33/230

33/230

33/230

33/230

38/260

38/260

35/240

35/240

35/240

35/240

39/270

39/270

36/250

36/250

36/250

36/250

41/280

41/280

110

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE

Model

Tire size All pressure specifications in the table are indicated in psi/kilopascal with cold tires. Cold = ambient temperature

Pressures specified in psi/kPa

Traveling speeds

195/55 R 16 87 V M+S A/S 195/55 R 16 87 V 195/55 R 16 87 H M+S 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S A/S 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S 205/45 R 17 84 V 175/60 R 16 82 H M+S 205/40 R 18 82 W 195/55 R 16 87 V M+S A/S 195/55 R 16 87 V 195/55 R 16 87 H M+S 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S A/S 205/45 R 17 84 V M+S 205/45 R 17 84 V 175/60 R 16 82 H M+S 205/40 R 18 82 W

MINI COOPER S Convertible

MINI COOPER S Convertible with John Coo- per Works Kit*

up to 100 mph/

160 km/h

above 100 mph/

160 km/h

30/210

30/210

30/210

30/210

35/240

35/240

33/230

33/230

33/230

33/230

38/260

38/260

35/240

35/240

35/240

35/240

38/260

38/260

36/250

36/250

36/250

36/250

41/280

41/280

32/220

32/220

32/220

32/220

35/240

35/240

33/230

33/230

33/230

33/230

38/260

38/260

35/240

35/240

35/240

35/240

39/270

39/270

36/250

36/250

36/250

36/250

41/280

41/280

More information about permissible loads and weights can be found on pages 155, 156.

111

TIRE CODING

Knowing the tire code on the tire's sidewall makes it easier for you to choose and iden- tify the correct tires.

205/45 R 17 84 V

Tire size e.g. 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 = up to 100 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 US Department of Transportation.

112

DOT xxxx xxx 3506

DOT quality grades Tread wear Traction AA A B C Temperature A B C

DOT code: e.g. Manufacturer's code for tire make Tire size and tire version Tire age

All passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in

addition to these grades.<

Tread wear The tread wear grade is a comparative rat- ing 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.

Tire age The tire's date of manufacture is included in the tire coding: DOT...3506 means that the tire was manu- factured in the 35th week of the year 2006. The manufacturer of your MINI recom- mends replacing all tires after 6 years at the latest, even if a tire service life of 10 years is possible.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Quality grades can be found where applica- ble on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A

TIRE CODING

TIRE CONDITION

Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the labora- tory 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 fail- ure.<

RSC: Run-Flat Tires You will recognize Run-Flat Tires by a circu- lar symbol containing the letters RSC on the side of the tire, refer to page 115.

M+S Winter and all-season tires. These have better winter performance properties than summer tires.

Inspect your tires frequently for tread wear, signs of damage and for foreign objects lodged in the tread. Check the tread depth.

Tire tread Tread depth should not be allowed to go below 1/8 in/3 mm even though in Europe, for example, the legally specified minimum tread depth is only 1/16 in/1.6 mm. Below 1/8 in/3 mm tread depth, there is a very high danger of hydroplaning at higher speeds, even with only small amounts of water on the road. At tread depths below approx. 1/6 in/ 4 mm, the ability of winter tires to cope with winter driving conditions decreases perceptibly. For safety reasons, new tires should be mounted.

Traction The traction grades, from highest to low- est, 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 govern- ment test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction per- formance.

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead brak-

ing 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 con- trolled conditions on a specified indoor lab- oratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

113

TIRE CONDITION

Wheel/tire damage

Due to low-profile tires, please note that wheels, tires and suspension

parts are more susceptible to road hazards and consequential damage. Unusual vibrations during driving may indi- cate 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 ten- dency to pull to the left or right. In such situations, reduce your speed immediately. Drive carefully to the nearest MINI Dealer or tire dealer, or have the vehi- cle towed there, if necessary. Tire damage can endanger the lives of both the vehicle occupants and other road users.<

Wear indicators in the tread-groove base are spread around the circumference of the tire and are marked on the sidewall of the tire with TWI, Tread Wear Indicator. When tire tread is worn down to the level of the wear indicators, the remaining tread depth is 1/16 in/1.6 mm.

114

Tire change set

In case of a flat tire, the tire change set is not needed, since your vehicle

has Run-Flat Tires. When changing a tire, always observe the safety measures and the procedure for changing tires starting on page 137.<

Your vehicle is additionally equipped with a tire change set. In the MINI COOPER and MINI COOPER Con- vertible this is located in the luggage com- partment under the floor mat. In the MINI COOPER S and MINI COOPER S Convertible, the tire change set is located in a separate bag which is attached to the lashing eyelets on the luggage compart- ment floor by means of tie-down straps.

Have new wheels and tires mounted only by your MINI Dealer or a special- ized tire shop that has specially trained per- sonnel working in accordance with the specifications of the MINI manufacturer. Work that is improperly carried out could result in consequential damage and pose safety hazards.<

Retreaded tires

The manufacturer of your MINI rec- ommends that you avoid using

retreaded tires, as this could impair driving safety. This is due to possible variations in casing structures and, in some cases, to their extreme age, factors which can lead to limited durability.<

RUN-FLAT TIRES*

You will recognize Run-Flat Tires by a circu- lar symbol containing the letters RSC on the side of the tire. Run-Flat Tires consist of conditionally self- supporting 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. To continue driving with a damaged tire: >If equipped with the Flat Tire Monitor,

refer to Flat tire warning, page 75.

>If equipped with the Tire Pressure Moni- tor, refer to Low inflation pressure warn- ing, page 76.

115

NEW WHEELS AND TIRES

The correct wheels and tires

The manufacturer of your MINI rec- ommends mounting only wheels and

tires that it has specifically approved for use on your particular model. Although other wheels and tires may theoretically have the same 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 mounted.<

Your MINI Dealer will be glad to inform you about the correct wheel and tire combina- tion for your vehicle. The correct wheel and tire combination is also important for various systems that would otherwise be impaired, e.g. ABS or DSC. To maintain good handling and vehicle response, use only tires of a single brand and tread configuration. In the event of tire damage, remount the previous wheel and tire combination as soon as possible.

Wheels with Tire Pressure Monitor TPM electronics When mounting new tires or changing over from summer to winter tires, or vice versa, only use wheels with TPM electronics; oth- erwise the Tire Pressure Monitor may not be able to detect a puncture, refer to page 76. Your MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you.

Run-Flat Tires For your own safety, use Run-Flat Tires when mounting new tires or replacing summer tires with winter tires or vice versa. Keep in mind that no spare wheel is available in the event of a flat. Your MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you.

For safety reasons, the manufacturer of your MINI recommends having

Run-Flat Tires replaced, not repaired, if they are damaged.<

116

Tire designation For each tire size, the manufacturer of your MINI recommends certain tire brands. You can recognize these by the clearly visible designation on the tire's sidewall. When used properly these tires meet the highest standards regarding safety and handling characteristics.

NEW WHEELS AND TIRES

SNOW CHAINS*

Special characteristics of winter tires The manufacturer of your MINI recom- mends winter tires for driving in adverse winter road conditions. While all-season tires with the M+S designation provide bet- ter winter traction than summer tires, they generally do not achieve the full perfor- mance of winter tires.

Observe speed ratings:

Never exceed the maximum speed for which the winter tires are rated.<

Storage Store tires in a cool, dry place, protecting them against light whenever possible. Pro- tect the tires against contact with oil, grease and fuel. Do not exceed the tire inflation pressure specified on the tire side- wall.

Only certain types of snow chains have been tested by the manufacturer of your MINI, classified as road-safe and recom- mended. Contact your MINI Dealer for more details. 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 manufac- turer'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 page 72.<

117

BONNET

Do not attempt to service your vehi- cle if you do not have the required

technical background. If you are not famil- iar with the regulations to be observed, have the necessary work on your vehicle carried out only by a MINI Dealer or a work- shop that has specially trained personnel working in accordance with the specifica- tions of the MINI manufacturer. Work that is improperly carried out could result in consequential damage and pose safety hazards.<

118

To unlock Pull the lever in the right door area beneath the instrument panel.

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.

Make sure that the closing range of the bonnet is unobstructed, other-

wise personal injury could result. If it is determined that the bonnet is not completely closed while driving, stop immediately and close it securely, also refer to page 17.<

ENGINE COMPARTMENT: MINI COOPER AND MINI COOPER CONVERTIBLE

1 Reservoir for windshield and rear

window washer system* 64
2 Vehicle identification number 3 Coolant expansion tank 122

4 Engine oil filler neck 121
5 Battery 144
6 Brake fluid reservoir 124

7 Reservoir for headlamp cleaning

system* 64

8 Engine oil dipstick 121

119

ENGINE COMPARTMENT: MINI COOPER S AND MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE

1 Reservoir for windshield and rear

window washer system* 64
2 Vehicle identification number

3 Coolant expansion tank 122
4 Engine oil filler neck 121
5 Auxiliary terminal for

jump-starting 146

6 Brake fluid reservoir 124
7 Reservoir for headlamp cleaning

system* 64

8 Engine oil dipstick 121

120

ENGINE OIL

Measuring the oil level 1. With the vehicle's engine at normal

operating temperature, i.e. after unin- terrupted driving for at least 6 miles/ 10 km, park the vehicle on a level surface

2. Switch off the engine 3. Pull the dipstick out after approx.

5 minutes and wipe it off with a lint-free cloth, paper towel, or similar material 4. Carefully push the dipstick all the way

into the guide tube and pull it out again. The oil level should be between the two marks on the dipstick.

As with fuel economy, oil consumption is directly influenced by your driving style and vehicle operating conditions. The oil volume between the two marks MIN, MAX on the dipstick corresponds to approx. 1.1 quarts/1 liter.

Do not fill beyond the upper mark on the dipstick. Excess oil will damage

the engine.<

Adding engine oil

Only top up oil when the oil level has dropped to just above the lower mark

of the dipstick. However, never allow the level to drop below the lower mark.<

Add oil within the next 30 miles/ 50 km, otherwise the engine could be

damaged.<

Always store oil, grease, etc., out of reach of children. Comply with all warning labels and information on lubri- cant containers, otherwise health risks may result.<

Oil change Have the oil changed only by a MINI Dealer or a workshop that has specially trained personnel working in accordance with the specifications of the MINI manufacturer.

121

ENGINE OIL

COOLANT

The correct SAE grade for your MINI is determined by the climatic conditions of the region in which you normally drive your MINI.

Do not open the cooling system when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant

can cause burns.<

Approved oils feature the SAE grades 5W-40 and 5W-30.<

These oils can be used for driving at all out- side temperatures.

Coolant consists of water and a coolant additive. Not all commercially available additives are suitable for your MINI. Your MINI Dealer knows which additives are suitable and will be glad to advise you.

Only use suitable additives, other- wise the engine can be damaged. The

additives are hazardous to your health.<

Comply with the applicable environ- mental laws regulating the disposal

of coolant additives.<

Approved engine oils The quality of the engine oil selected has critical significance for the operation and service life of an engine. Based on exten- sive testing, the manufacturer of your MINI approves only certain grades of engine oil. Only use High Performance Synthetic Oil approved by the manufacturer of your MINI. If MINI High Performance Synthetic Oil is not available, you can add small quantities of another synthetic oil in between oil changes. Only use oils with a specification of API SH or higher.

If you have any further questions regarding MINI High Performance Synthetic Oil or approved synthetic oils, your MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you.<

Do not use any oil additives, as they could cause engine damage under

some circumstances.<

Viscosity grades Viscosity is a measure of an oil's flow rating and is classified into SAE grades.

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3. The coolant level is correct if it is

between the MIN and MAX markings on the transparent expansion tank

4. If necessary, slowly add coolant until the

correct level is reached; do not overfill 5. MINI COOPER and MINI COOPER Con-

vertible: Reattach the cap and press it down firmly MINI COOPER S and MINI COOPER S Con- vertible: Screw the cap back on and tighten it firmly

6. Have the cause of the coolant loss

removed as soon as possible.

COOLANT

As an example, the illustration shows the coolant tank of the MINI COOPER and the MINI COOPER Convertible.

Checking coolant level 1. The engine must be at ambient temper-

ature

2. MINI COOPER and MINI COOPER Con-

vertible: Slowly pull the cap of the expansion tank by the tab until the excess pressure can escape. Then remove the cap com- pletely. MINI COOPER S and MINI COOPER S Con- vertible: Slightly unscrew the cap of the expan- sion tank counterclockwise until the excess pressure can escape. Then remove the cap completely

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BRAKE SYSTEM

Brake fluid level

The warning lamp comes on although the parking brake is not engaged:

The brake fluid level in the reservoir is too low, refer to page 16. At the same time, brake pedal travel may become signifi- cantly longer. Have the system checked immediately. 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.

Canadian models display this warning lamp.

If you continue driving, higher brake application pressure may be neces-

sary, and there may be a slight pull to one side. Brake pedal travel may also be longer. Adapt your driving style accordingly.<

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MINI MAINTENANCE SYSTEM

The MINI maintenance system helps main- tain your vehicle's road safety and opera- tional safety. Please bear in mind that regular mainte- nance is not only necessary for the safety of your vehicle, but also plays a significant role in maintaining the resale value of the vehicle.

Service interval display While conventional systems determine maintenance intervals according to fixed kilometer readings, the MINI Maintenance System takes the vehicle's driving condi- tions into account because not every mile is the same as another in this respect. From a maintenance standpoint, 60,000 miles/100,000 km accumulated through short-distance driving cannot be treated the same as 60,000 miles/ 100,000 km accumulated through long-dis- tance highway travel. The condition-based MINI Maintenance System includes the Engine Oil Service and Inspections I and II. Determining the maintenance intervals according to the actual use of the vehicle covers every kind of operating situation. People who drive very little, i.e. much less than 6,000 miles/10,000 km per year, should have the engine oil changed at least every 2 years since oil deteriorates over time, regardless of use. For more information on the service inter- val display, refer to page 69.

Service and Warranty Information Booklet for US models, Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models For additional information on maintenance intervals and procedures, please refer to the Service and Warranty Information Booklet for US models or the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models. As a precaution against rust, it is advisable to have the body checked for damage from rocks or gravel at the same time, depending upon operating conditions.

The manufacturer of your MINI rec- ommends having maintenance and

repair work carried out only by a MINI Dealer or a workshop that has specially trained personnel working in accordance with the specifications of the MINI manu- facturer. Make sure that maintenance work is con- firmed with an entry in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet for US models or the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models. These entries are your proof that the vehicle has received regular maintenance.<

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SOCKET FOR ONBOARD DIAGNOSTICS OBD

CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE

speed and visit your nearest MINI Dealer as soon as possible. Severe engine misfiring can quickly lead to serious damage of emis- sions-related components, especially the catalytic converter.

If the fuel filler cap is not properly tightened, the OBD system may con- clude that fuel vapors are escaping, causing an indicator to light up. If the filler cap is then tightened, the indicator should go out within a few days.<

Suitable car-care products

Use the cleaning and car-care prod- ucts available at your MINI Dealer.<

Washing your vehicle You can wash your new MINI or MINI Con- vertible in automatic car washes from the beginning. Preference should be for cloth car washes. If, due to lack of availability, brush car washes must be used, modern systems with soft brushes should be given preference.

When using steam cleaners or high- pressure cleaners, maintain sufficient distance to the vehicle and do not exceed a maximum temperature of 1407/606. If the jet is too close or the pressure is too high, this can lead to damage or initial damage that can develop into more serious damage. Water that enters vehicle compo- nents can lead to damage over the long term. After washing the vehicle, apply the brakes briefly to dry them, otherwise water can reduce braking efficiency over the short term and the brake rotors can corrode. Switch the rain sensor off when passing through an automatic car wash, refer to page 63. Failure to do so could result in

Primary components of exhaust emissions can be checked by a device via the OBD socket. This socket is located to the left of the driver's side, on the bottom of the instru- ment panel underneath a cover.

Exhaust emission values

The warning lamp comes on. The exhaust emissions have deterio- rated. Have the vehicle checked as

soon as possible.

Canadian models display this warning lamp.

Under some circumstances, the lamp will flash. This indicates severe engine misfir- ing. In this case, you should reduce your

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CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE