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75


AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM*


Air volume/Blower


Rear window defroster


Air conditioning


You can select blower speeds from 1 to 4. Position 0: fan is turned off. The button for recir- culated air mode fully blocks the


supply of air from outside. The heating, ventilation and air condition- ing operate in position 1 or higher.


Temperature


Turn to the right, red, to increase the temperature of the passen- ger compartment. Rapid heating: turn to the


extreme right. Then select a pleasant inte- rior temperature.


Rear window defroster switched on: Indicator lamp lights up.


As long as the indicator lamp is lit, the win- dow heater is operating. The heater switches off automatically after a short time.


Windshield heating*


Windshield heating switched on: Indicator lamp lights up. As long as the indicator lamp is


lit, the window heater is operating. The heater switches off automatically after a short time.


Air distribution


Air distribution in upper body , upper body region region and footwell footwell and windows , and


, footwell


windows All intermediate positions are possible, refer to illustration and overview on page 75.


76


Air conditioning switched on: indicator lamp lights up. The air is cooled and dehumidi- fied and, depending on the temperature setting, rewarmed. After the engine has started, the wind- shield can temporarily fog over. Condensa- tion on the windows is reduced when the air conditioning is turned on.


When the air conditioning is on, con- densation is formed which then exits


under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water on the ground are therefore nor- mal.<


Recirculated air mode


Supply of outside air into the vehicle is blocked: Indicator lamp lights up.


The air within the vehicle is recirculated.


If the windows fog up in the recircu- lated air mode, turn the recirculated air mode off and if necessary increase the air supply. The recirculated air mode should not be constantly used over a longer period of time, as the air quality in the vehicle's interior will otherwise gradually deterio- rate.<


Microfilter* The integrated microfilter removes dust and pollen from the incoming or recircu- lated air. Your MINI Dealer will replace it during rou- tine maintenance. A substantial reduction in the air supply indicates that the filter must be replaced before scheduled mainte- nance.


AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM*


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 air- flow 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. Turn the rotary switch for air distribu-


tion to position Condensation is removed from the win- dows more quickly by activating the air conditioning


4. Turn on windshield heating if necessary 5. To defrost the rear window: turn on the


rear window heater.


77


AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL*


1 Air onto the windshield and onto the


5 Interior temperature sensor, please keep


side windows


2 Air for the upper body area 80
3 Air for the front and rear footwells 4 Rear window defroster and windshield


heating* 79


clear and unobstructed


6 Recirculated air mode 79
7 Air conditioning 76
8 Automatic air distribution and


volume 79


10 Temperature 79
11 Display for air temperature and air


volume 79


12 Air volume/Blower, switching air con-


ditioner on/off 79


13 Individual air distribution 80


9 Defrosting and demisting the windshield


and side windows 80


78


AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL*


Automatic air distribution and volume


Automatic program (AUTO): Indicator lamp lights up.


Automatic adjustment of the air distribu- tion and volume, and adaptation of the specified temperatures to external influ- ences, i.e. outside temperature and sun- light. In the automatic program (AUTO), the air conditioning is activated automatically. To create a pleasant air climate, the air tem- perature coming from the vents in the upper body area is lower than the air tem- perature in the footwell.


Air volume/Blower Switching automatic climate control off/on


Air volume/Blower. Press the left or right half of the button. The air volume varies. Automatic adjustment of the air volume is deacti- vated. Switching air conditioner on/off. Press the left half of the button while the blower is at the lowest setting. The blower, heating and air conditioning are switched off. All displays go out.


Switch the automatic climate control back on by pressing any button.


Air conditioning


Indicator lamp lights up. The air is cooled and dehumidified


and, depending on the temperature set- ting, rewarmed. In the automatic program (AUTO), the air conditioning is activated automatically. After the engine has started, the wind- shield can temporarily fog over. In the air conditioning mode, there is less condensa- tion on the windows.


When the air conditioning is on, con- densation is formed which then exits


under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water on the ground are therefore nor- mal.<


faster cooling. The indicator lamp for the recirculated air button is not lit.


The recirculated air mode should not be constantly used over a longer period of time, as the air quality in the vehicle's interior will otherwise gradually deteriorate. If the windows fog up in the recirculated air mode, turn the recirculated air mode off and if nec- essary increase the air supply.<


Rear window defroster and windshield heating*


Indicator lamp lights up. As long as the indicator lamp is lit,


the window heater is operating. The heater switches off automatically after a short time.


Temperature


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


Tap or turn the wheel in the appro- priate direction to change the tem- perature 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 main- tained.


79


AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL*


You can switch the unit from 7 to 6 by pressing the buttons for air conditioning and air distribution toward the footwell at the same time.<


Microfilter/Activated-charcoal filter The microfilter removes dust and pollen from the incoming or recirculated air. The activated-charcoal filter provides addi- tional protection by filtering gaseous pol- lutants 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.


Permanent heating with maximum power output at temperature selec- tion HI. Permanent cooling at LO. With the setting at HI, the recirculated air mode can- not be switched on.<


Defrosting and demisting windows


Press the button. Indicator lamp lights up.


Ice and condensation are rapidly removed from the rear window, windshield and side windows. Condensation is removed from the win- dows more quickly when the air condition- ing is also activated. The rear window defroster/windshield heating are switched on automatically. They can be switched off again via the respective button.


Individual air distribution


Combine the air distribution your- self. Automatic adjustment of the air distribution is deactivated. It is not possible to distribute air simultaneously toward the win-


dows and toward the upper body area.


80


GLOVE COMPARTMENT


ASHTRAY, DRINKS HOLDERS


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 posi- tion: The vents are open.


Turn the rotary switch to a vertical position, arrow: The vents are closed.


Depending on the temperature set- ting of the air conditioning or the


automatic climate control, high tempera- tures may result in the glove compart- ment.<


Ashtray The ashtray is located in one of the bever- age holders in the center console. In the rear, an ashtray can also be fitted in the beverage holder at the end of the cen- ter 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.


Do not place any glass containers in the beverage holders, as this


increases the risk of injury in the event of an accident.<


81


CIGARETTE LIGHTER, 12 V POWER SUPPLY


When the vehicle is equipped with a MINI Mobility System, the 12 V socket is also for supplying the compressor.


12 V socket in the luggage compart- ment* of the MINI Convertible The socket is located in the luggage com- partment on the left-hand side of the rear panel, arrow. If the vehicle is equipped with a MINI Mobility System, the 12 V socket is also for supplying the compressor.


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 as a power socket 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.


82


INTEGRATED UNIVERSAL REMOTE CONTROL*


Checking compatibility


If this symbol is depicted on the packaging or in the operating instructions of the original control device, it is safe to assume that the remote- controlled system is compatible with the integrated universal remote control.


If you have additional questions, please consult your MINI center or


call 1-800-355-3515. You can also visit these websites: www.miniusa.com or www.homelink.com. HomeLink is a registered trademark owned by Johnson Controls, Inc.<


The concept The integrated universal remote control takes the place of up to three different con- trol devices for different radio-remote-con- trolled systems such as gate openers and household alarm systems. The integrated universal remote control detects and learns the signal transmitted by the original con- trol device. The signal of an original control device can be programmed onto one of the three memory buttons 1. The system in question can then be operated by means of the pro- grammed memory button 1. Signal trans- mission is indicated by indicator lamp 2. If you decide to sell your vehicle one day, in the interest of your own security, remem- ber to delete the programs before the vehi- cle leaves your possession, refer to page 84.


While programming is in progress and before operating any pro-


grammed system by remote control using the integrated universal remote control, make sure that the movement area of the system in question is clear of people, ani- mals and inanimate obstructions, in order to avoid possible injury or damage. Also comply with the safety precautions issued for the original control device.<


Programming 1 Memory buttons 2 Indicator lamp


Fixed-code control device 1. Switch on the ignition 2. During initial operation: press and hold both outer buttons 1 approx. 20 seconds until indicator lamp 2 flashes. This clears all three memory buttons 1


3. Hold the original control device approx. 2 to 8 in / 5 to 20 cm away from memory buttons 1.


The required distance between the control device and memory


buttons 1 may vary, depending on the system of the original control device in question.<


83


INTEGRATED UNIVERSAL REMOTE CONTROL*


4. Simultaneously press the command but- ton of the original control device and the desired memory button 1 on the inte- grated universal remote control. The indicator lamp 2 begins to flash slowly. Release both buttons when indicator lamp 2 starts flashing rapidly. If indica- tor lamp 2 does not start to flash rapidly after approx. 15 seconds, change the dis- tance between the two devices


5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 to program other


original control devices.


The corresponding memory button 1 is now programmed with the signal of the original control device. The system can be operated as soon as the ignition is switched on.


If the system cannot be operated after repeated attempts at program-


ming, check whether the original control device is equipped with an alternating- code system. You can either check the oper- ating instructions of the original control device for this information, or you can press and hold down the programmed memory button 1 of the integrated univer- sal remote control. If indicator lamp 2 of the integrated universal remote control flashes rapidly for a brief period and then


remains on for approx. two seconds, the original control device is equipped with an alternating-code system. In this case, the memory buttons 1 are programmed as described for an alternating-code control device.<


Alternating-code control device You will need to refer to the operating instructions of the system in question in order to program the integrated universal remote control. Read through the operat- ing instructions for information on syn- chronization. Observe the following additional instruc- tions when you program an alternating- code control device:


You will find programming easier if you have the assistance of a second


person.<


1. Park your vehicle within range of the


radio-remote-controlled device


2. Program the integrated universal


remote control as described above in the section on fixed-code programming


3. Locate the button on the receiver of the target device, for example on the upper part of the drive


4. Press the button on the receiver of the


target device. Once you have completed step 4, you have approx. 30 seconds to complete step 5


5. Press the programmed memory


button 1 of the integrated universal remote control three times.


The corresponding memory button 1 is now programmed with the signal of the original control device.


Consult your MINI Dealer if you have any questions.<


Deleting memory buttons It is not possible to delete individual mem- ory buttons 1. To delete all three memory buttons 1 at the same time, however, per- form the following steps: Press and hold both outer buttons 1 of the integrated universal remote control for approx. 20 seconds until indicator lamp 2 flashes.


84


LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT IN THE MINI


Luggage compartment cover When the tailgate is opened, the luggage compartment cover is also raised.


Never place any heavy or hard objects on the luggage compartment cover; otherwise occupants could be injured dur- ing braking maneuvers.<


Removal To load bulky luggage, the compartment cover can be removed. 1. Remove the retaining straps on the tail-


gate


2. Pull the luggage compartment 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 dur- ing sudden braking or evasive maneuvers, posing a potential hazard to occupants.<


85


LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT IN THE MINI CONVERTIBLE


LOADING CARGO


Loading aid When the convertible top is closed, you can load the vehicle more easily by releasing the convertible top and folding it up. 1. Release the convertible top using the


Expanding the luggage compartment volume You can enlarge the luggage compartment volume when the convertible top is closed. 1. Fold the convertible top upwards, refer


handles, arrows 1


to Loading aid


2. Lift the convertible top, arrow 2
3. Fold back the handles and place them on


brackets 3.


2. Remove the luggage compartment cover from the brackets, arrow 1, and engage it on the upper support pins, arrow 2.


Through-loading system To be able to transport larger objects, the rear backrest can be folded. 1. Unlock the catch for the rear backrest


with an ignition key or master key, refer to Manual release in the MINI Convert- ible on page 30


2. Pull the lever to release the catch 3. Fold the backrest forward.


Lock the handles in place again com- pletely so that the convertible top


can be operated.<


Move the luggage compartment cover to its lower position again so


that the convertible top can be operated.<


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 dur- ing sudden braking or evasive maneuvers, posing a potential hazard to occupants.<


86


LOADING CARGO


Avoid overloading the vehicle so that the permitted load on the tires is not


exceeded. Overloading can lead to over- heating and damage inside the tires. Depending on the circumstances, this can result in sudden air loss.<


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 lug-


gage 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.


87


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 vehi- cle 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 kilo- grams or YYY pounds


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 rear backrests.


88


Securing the load The illustration shows by way of example the luggage compartment of the MINI. >Secure smaller and lighter items using


the luggage compartment net* or elastic 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.


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 143 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, as otherwise damage can occur. Do not secure the roof-mounted lug- gage 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 accidents.<


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


sories from your MINI Dealer.<


89


90


OVERVIEW


CONTROLS


OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE


OWNER SERVICE PROCEDURES


TECHNICAL DATA


INDEX


91


Operation


BREAK-IN PROCEDURES


To ensure that your vehicle provides maxi- mum 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 varying engine and road speeds, but do not exceed the following engine or road speeds: 4,500 rpm or 95 mph / 150 km/h. Comply with the local speed limits. Absolutely avoid putting the accelerator in full-throttle or kickdown position. After having driven 1,250 miles / 2,000 km, engine and road speeds can be gradually increased.


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.


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.


92


GENERAL DRIVING NOTES


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.


Safe braking Your vehicle is equipped with ABS as a stan- dard feature. The best way to brake the vehicle in critical situations requiring brak- ing is to 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. The pulsation of the brake pedal, together with the sound of hydraulic regulation, indicates to you that ABS is actively taking effect.


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.<


Mobile communications in the vehicle


Hot exhaust system


High temperatures occur in any vehi- cle equipped with a catalytic con-


verter. Do not remove the heat protection plates fitted in the area of the exhaust sys- tem and do not apply body-cavity pro- tectant to this area. When driving, standing at idle, and parking the vehicle, take care to avoid contact between the hot exhaust sys- tem and flammable materials, e.g. hay, grass, leaves, etc. Such contact could lead to a fire resulting in serious personal injury and property damage.<


The manufacturer of your MINI recommends that you do not use


mobile devices, e.g. cellular phones, inside the vehicle without directly connecting them to an outside antenna. Otherwise, interference between the vehicle electron- ics and the mobile device cannot be ruled out. In addition, it is not ensured that the radiation emitted during mobile transmis- sion will be directed outside of the vehi- cle.<


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


93


REFUELING


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.<


94


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.


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.<


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


Close the gas cap carefully after refuelling until a click is heard.


While closing, be sure not to squeeze the strap which is fastened to the cap.<


Fuel specification The engine uses lead-free gasoline only.


Required fuel Premium Unleaded Gasoline, Minimum Octane Rating: 91. Minimum Octane Rating corresponds to the Anti Knock Index (AKI) and is deter- mined according to the so-called (R+M)/2 method.


REFUELING


Do not use leaded gasoline, as other- wise the lambda probe and catalytic converter will be permanently damaged.<


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 you respond by switching to a recognized high-quality brand. 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.


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, arrow 1


2. Pull the green strap toward the rear,


arrow 2. The fuel filler door is released


3. Open the fuel filler door.


95


BRAKE SYSTEM


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 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.


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 endanger other road users. The resulting heat dries the 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 pedal pressure can lead to high temperatures, brake wear and possibly even brake fail- ure.<


The braking effect of the engine can be fur- ther utilized by downshifting, to first gear if necessary, in the manual mode of the auto- matic transmission, refer to page 55. This protects the brakes from excessive loads.


Do not coast with the clutch pedal pressed or with the transmission or


selector lever in Neutral. Do not coast with the engine switched off. The engine pro- vides no braking effect when the transmis- sion is in Neutral, and there is no power- assist for braking or steering when the engine is switched off. Make sure that there are no floor mats, floor carpets or other objects in the vicinity of the brake or accelerator pedal, as the travel path of the pedals could otherwise be impeded.<


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 condi- tion. When the brake pads reach the wear limit, the brake wear warning lights up, refer to page 18.


Use brake pads which the manufac- turer of your MINI has approved for your particular vehicle model. The manu- facturer 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.<


96


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.


Check tire inflation pressures regu- larly and correct them if necessary,


including the space-saver spare tire: at least twice a month and before long jour- neys. 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 maxi- mum 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 71.


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.


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


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


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


97


TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE


Model


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


MINI COOPER


MINI COOPER S


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 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 205/40 R 18 82 W Space-saver spare tire T 115/70 R 15 90 M 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 205/40 R 18 82 W


Pressures specified in psi / kPa


30 / 210


35 / 240


35 / 240


35 / 240


30 / 210


30 / 210


35 / 240


35 / 240


33 / 230


33 / 230


38 / 260


38 / 260


61 / 420


61 / 420


61 / 420


61 / 420


30 / 210


30 / 210


35 / 240


35 / 240


33 / 230


33 / 230


38 / 260


38 / 260


36 / 250


36 / 250


41 / 280


41 / 280


More information about permissible loads and weights can be found on pages 143, 144.


98


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 U.S. Department of Transportation.


DOT xxxx xxx 2704


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 date on which the tire was manufac- tured is indicated by the code on the side- wall: DOT...2704 indicates that the tire was man- ufactured in Week 27 of the year 2004. The manufacturer of your vehicle 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


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TIRE CODING


TIRE CONDITION


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


Tire tread The tread depth should not fall below ε in / 3 mm. Below ε in / 3 mm tread depth, there is a very high danger of hydroplaning at higher speeds even if there is only a small amount of water on the road. Below a tread depth of 1/6 in / 4 mm, win- ter tires display a perceptible decrease in their ability to cope with winter driving conditions, and should be replaced in the interest of safety.


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 101.


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


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


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TIRE CONDITION


RUN FLAT TIRES*


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 while driving can 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, up to and including blowouts, can endanger the lives of both the vehicle occupants and other road users.<


Wear indicators in the tread-groove base, arrow, are spread around the circumfer- ence of the tire and are marked on the side wall of the tire with TWI, Tread Wear Indi- cator. The indicators in the tread indicate at 1/16 in / 1.6 mm tread depth that the legally permitted wear limit has been reached.


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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 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.


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.


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 125.<


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.


NEW WHEELS AND TIRES


Have new wheels and tires mounted only by a tire specialist. Work that is improperly carried out could result in con- sequential damage and pose safety haz- ards.<


Your MINI Dealer will be glad to inform you about the correct wheel and tire combina- tion for your vehicle. Have the wheels balanced after each tire or wheel replacement. The correct wheel and tire combination is also important for various systems that would otherwise be impaired, e.g. ABS or DSC.


The manufacturer of your vehicle 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.<


RUN FLAT TIRES*


If there is a total loss of tire inflation pres- sure, 0 psi / 0 kPa, or obvious tire damage, you can gauge the mileage for continued driving on the basis of the following indica- tions: >With a light load:


1 to 2 persons without luggage: approx. 155 miles / 250 km


>With a medium load:


2 persons, full luggage compartment, or 4 persons without luggage: approx. 90 miles / 150 km.


>With a full load:


4 persons or more, full luggage compart- ment: 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 sta- bility during braking, longer braking dis- tances and changes in self-steering proper- ties when close to the handling limit. For safety reasons, the manufacturer of your vehicle recommends not having dam- aged Run Flat tires repaired. In this case, consult your MINI dealer.<


102


NEW WHEELS AND TIRES


The correct wheels and tires


The manufacturer of your vehicle recommends mounting only wheels and tires that it has specifically tested and approved for use on your particular model. Although other wheels and tires may theo- retically have the same dimensions, varia- tions in factors such as manufacturing tol- erances can result in contact between tire and bodywork, ultimately leading to seri- ous accidents. The manufacturer of your vehicle 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.<


To maintain good handling and vehicle response, use only tires of a single brand and tread configuration. In the event of a flat tire, remount the previous wheel and tire combination as soon as possible.


Recommended tire sizes and brands: For each tire size, certain tire brands have been tested, classified as road safe and approved by the manufacturer of your vehicle. You can find out about these from a professional tire center, preferably your MINI Dealer. Observe any local regulations,


e.g. on making a corresponding entry in the vehicle documents. The factory-approved radial belt tires are matched to your vehicle and provide opti- mum safety and driving comfort when used properly.


vice tires can lead to damage and acci- dents. Have this work performed by skilled professionals only. The technicans 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. Pro- tect the tires against contact with oil, grease and fuel. Do not exceed the tire inflation pressure specified on the tire side- wall.


Run Flat tires: If your vehicle is equipped with Run Flat tires, refer to Run Flat tires, please note the following: when mounting new tires or replacing summer tires with winter tires, or vice versa, use only Run Flat tires since no spare wheel is available in the event of a flat. The manufacturer of your vehicle will be glad to advise you.


Special characteristics of winter tires The manufacturer of your vehicle 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.


Observing speed ratings:


Never exceed the maximum speed for which the winter tires are rated. Unprofessional attempts by laymen to ser-


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