2006 Mini Cooper Owners Manual

low. There is a malfunction in the Flat Tire Monitor or the system has failed. Have the system checked as soon as possible.

FLAT TIRE MONITOR

Flat tire warning

The warning lamp lights up in yel- low. An acoustic signal also sounds. There is a flat tire or a significant

loss of pressure in a tire. 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, con- tact your MINI Dealer.<

3. Repair the flat tire, refer to page 131. 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.

Do not continue driving if the vehi- cle is not equipped with Run Flat tires, refer to page 108. If you continue to drive with a flat tire, a serious acci- dent could result.<

2. Check the tire inflation pressure in all

four tires at the earliest opportunity.

If the tire inflation pressure is cor- rect in all four tires, it is possible

that the Flat Tire Monitor was not initial- ized. In this case, initialize the system.<

3. 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 fol- lowing indications:

>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 MINI recommends not having dam- aged Run Flat tires repaired, but to consult a MINI Dealer in such cases.<

74

AIRBAGS

The following airbags are located under the marked covers:

MINI 1 Side airbags in the backrests 2 Head airbags 3 Front airbags

MINI Convertible 1 Side/head airbags in the backrests 3 Front airbags

Protective effect

Comply with the instructions on page 42, or the occupants' personal

safety will be diminished.<

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 protec- tion afforded by the belts alone may no longer be sufficient. When needed, the head and side airbags help to furnish pro- tection in the event of side impact. Each of the side airbags is designed to help support the seat occupant's upper body. The corre- sponding side/head airbag in the MINI Con- vertible or the head airbag in the MINI sup- ports the head. The airbags are designed to not be trig- gered in certain types of collisions, e.g. in minor accidents or rear impacts. For information on the ideal seating posi- tion, refer to page 42.

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 integrated side air- bags. Do not hang clothing, e.g. jackets, over the backrests. Do not attempt to remove the airbag restraint system from the vehicle. Do not touch the individual components directly

after the system has been triggered; other- wise there is a danger of burns. In the event of malfunctions, deactivation or deploy- ment of the airbag restraint system, have the system checked, repaired or disassem- bled only by a MINI Dealer or a workshop with specially trained personnel working in accordance with the specifications of the MINI manufacturer and having the neces- sary permits for handling explosive devices. Unprofessional attempts to service the sys- tem could lead to failure in an emergency or undesired airbag activation, either of which could result in personal injury.<

Warning notices and information regard- ing airbags can also be found on the sun visors.

Automatic deactivation of the front passenger airbags An analysis of the impression in the front passenger seat cushion determines whether and how the seat is occupied. The system correspondingly activates or deacti- vates the front and side airbags for the front passenger.

The indicator lamp above the interior rearview mirror shows the current

status of the front passenger airbags, deac-

75

AIRBAGS

tivated or activated, refer to Functional sta- tus of the front passenger airbags below. <

Before transporting a child on the front passenger seat, read the safety notes and instructions under Transporting children safely, refer to page 50. Adolescents and adults sitting in certain positions could also deactivate the front and side airbags for the front passenger; the indicator lamp for the front passenger airbags comes on. In such cases, the occu- pant should change his or her sitting posi- tion so that the front passenger airbags are activated and the indicator lamp goes out. If the airbags are not activated although the seat occupant has changed his or her position, have the occupant sit on a rear seat. Do not attach covers, cushions, ball mats or other items to the front passenger seat unless they are specifically recom- mended by the manufacturer of your MINI. Do not place any objects under the seat which could press against the seat from below. Otherwise, a correct analysis of the seat cushion is not ensured.<

76

The front and side airbags for the front passenger are not activated.

>The indicator lamp does not come on

when the system detects a person of suf- ficient size sitting correctly on the seat, for example. The front and side airbags for the front passenger are activated. >The indicator lamp does not come on when the seat is empty. However, the front and side airbags for the front pas- senger are not activated.

Operational readiness of the airbag system

Starting from ignition key position 1, the warning lamp in the display elements lights up briefly for confirmation that the entire airbag sys- tem and the seat belt tensioners are opera- tional.

Airbag system malfunctioning >The warning lamp does not come on

along with ignition key position 1

>The warning lamp stays lit continuously.

In the event of a malfunction, have the airbag system checked immedi-

ately. Otherwise, there is a risk that the sys- tem will not function as intended in an accident of sufficient severity.<

Functional status of the front passenger airbags As an example, the illustration shows the indicator lamp for front passenger airbags on the headliner of the MINI. In accordance with whether and how the front passenger seat is occupied, the indi- cator lamp for the front passenger airbags shows the functional status of the front and side airbags for the front passenger. The indicator lamp shows whether the front passenger airbags are activated or deactivated. >The indicator lamp comes on as intended

when a child in a specially designated child-restraint system is detected on the front passenger's seat.

PARK DISTANCE CONTROL (PDC)*

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 sys- tem may otherwise alert you too late for you to take evasive steps.<

Automatic function With the ignition key in position 2, the sys- tem 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.<

You can have a signal tone set as a confirmation that PDC has been acti-

vated.<

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 12 in/30 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 A continuous high-pitched tone will sound during initial activation. The system is mal- functioning. Have the system checked.

Volume control The volume of the Park Distance Control signal can be adjusted from level 1, soft, to level 6, loud.

The system is deactivated when you shift away from Reverse.

You can have this function set.<

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 wedge- shaped objects. It is also possible that low objects already detected, such as a curb edge, can disappear in the blind spot of the sensors before a continuous tone is sounded, or that protruding objects higher above the ground, such as ledges, are not detected. 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.<

77

AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

1 Air onto the windshield and onto the

side windows

2 Air for the upper body area 80
3 Air for the front and rear footwells

4 Temperature 79
5 Windshield heating* 79
6 Air volume/Blower 79
7 Cooling function 79

8 Air distribution 79
9 Recirculated air mode 79
10 Rear window defroster 79

78

AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

Air volume/Blower

Rear window defroster

Cooling function

You can select blower speeds from 1 to 4. Position 0: fan is off. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning operate in position

1 or higher.

Temperature

Turn to the right, red, to increase the temperature. Turn to the left, blue, to cool the air.

Air distribution

The LED is lit when the rear win- dow defroster is on. The heater switches off auto-

matically after a short time.

Windshield heating*

The LED is lit when the wind- shield heating is on. The windshield heating switches

off automatically after a short time.

Air distribution towards upper body region region and footwell

, upper body

, footwell and windows

, footwell

and windows Intermediate positions are possible, refer to illustration and overview on page 78.

The LED is lit when the cooling function is on. The air is cooled and dehumidi- fied and, depending on the temperature setting, rewarmed. Depending on the weather, the windshield can fog up temporarily after the engine is started.

When the cooling function is on, con- densation forms which then exits

under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water on the ground are therefore normal.<

Recirculated air mode

The LED is lit when the recircu- lated air mode is on. Supply of outside air into the vehicle is

blocked. 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 used constantly over a longer period of time; otherwise the air quality in the vehicle's interior will gradually deterio- rate.<

79

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 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 By activating the cooling function, the windows are demisted more quickly

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

rear window heater.

80

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 83
3 Air for the front and rear footwells 4 Rear window defroster and windshield

heating* 82

clear and unobstructed

6 Recirculated air mode 82
7 Cooling function 82
8 Automatic air distribution and

volume 82

10 Temperature 82
11 Display for air temperature and air

volume 82

12 Air volume/Blower, switching air con-

ditioner on/off 82

13 Individual air distribution 83

9 Defrosting and demisting the windshield

and side windows 83

81

AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL*

Automatic air distribution and volume The LED is lit when the AUTO pro- gram is on.

Automatic adjustment of the air distribu- tion and volume, and adaptation of the specified temperatures to external influ- ences, e.g. outside temperature and insola- tion. 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.

Cooling function

The LED is lit when the cooling function is on.

The air is cooled and dehumidified and, depending on the temperature setting, rewarmed. The cooling function is automatically acti- vated in the AUTO program.

Depending on the weather, the windshield can fog up temporarily after the engine is started.

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

Air volume/Blower Switching automatic climate control off/on

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

Press the left or right half of the button to vary the air volume.

Automatic adjustment of the air volume is deactivated. 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.

Recirculated air mode

The LED is lit when the recirculated air mode is on. Supply of outside air

into the vehicle is blocked. 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. The LED for the recirculated air button is not lit.

The recirculated air mode should not be used constantly over a longer

period of time; otherwise the air quality in the vehicle's interior will gradually deterio- rate. If the windows fog up in the recircu- lated air mode, turn the recirculated air mode off and, if necessary, increase the air supply.<

Rear window defroster and windshield heating*

The LED comes on when the rear window/windshield heating is on. The heater switches off automatically after a short time.

Temperature

Tap or turn the wheel in the appropriate direction to change the temperature step by step. The figures in the display provide

a general indication of interior tempera- ture. When you start the vehicle, the sys- tem 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. With the

82

AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL*

You can switch the unit from 6 to 7 by pressing the buttons for the

cooling function 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.

setting at HI, the recirculated air mode can- not be switched on.<

Defrosting and demisting windows

The LED is lit when the function is on.

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 cooling func- tion 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.

Draft-free ventilation 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.

83

GLOVE COMPARTMENT

CENTER ARMREST*

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 To allow ventilation: Turn the rotary switch to the horizontal position. To stop ventilation: Turn the rotary switch to the vertical posi- tion, see arrow.

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.<

Storage compartments Depending on the equipment version*, the center armrest between the front seats contains a compartment or a base plate for a mobile phone.

To open: Slide the cover backwards.

The cover slides along guide rails and can be opened fully by pushing it

back and lifting it slightly.<

To close: Push the cover forwards.

84

DRINKS HOLDERS, ASHTRAY

CIGARETTE LIGHTER, 12 V POWER SUPPLY

Beverage holders Beverage holders are at the front or top of the center console. Another is located at the end of the center console in the rear.

Lighter Press the cigarette lighter in. Remove as soon as the lighter jumps back out.

12 V socket in the luggage compartment* of the MINI Convertible The socket is located in the luggage com- partment on the left-hand side of the rear panel, arrow.

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

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

Ashtray The ashtray is located in one of the bever- age holders in the center console.

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

85

INTEGRATED UNIVERSAL REMOTE CONTROL*

Checking compatibility

If this symbol is shown on the pack- aging or in the operating instruc- tions of the original control device,

it is safe to assume that the remote-con- trolled system is compatible with the inte- grated universal remote control.

If you have any additional question, please contact your MINI Dealer or

call: 1-800-355-3515. You can also find more information on the Internet at www.miniusa.com or www.homelink.com. HomeLink is a registered trademark of 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 LED 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 87.

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.<

86

Programming 1 Memory buttons 2 LED

Fixed-code control device 1. Switch on the ignition 2. During initial operation: press both

outer buttons 1 for approx. 20 seconds until LED 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.<

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 LED 2 begins to flash slowly. Release both buttons when LED 2 starts flashing rap- idly. If LED 2 does not start to flash rap- idly after approx. 15 seconds, change the distance 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. You can operate the system with the igni- tion key in position 2 or 3.

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 LED 2 of the inte- grated 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 alternat- ing-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 Press both outer buttons 1 for approx. 20 seconds until LED 2 flashes: all memory buttons are deleted. It is not possible to delete individual mem- ory buttons 1.

87

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.<

88

LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT IN THE MINI CONVERTIBLE

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

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

with an ignition key or master key

handles, see arrows 1

to Loading aid

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

holders 3.

After folding the loading aid back down, lock the handles in place again

completely to operate the convertible top.<

2. Detach the luggage compartment cover

from the brackets, see arrow 1, and engage it on the upper support pins, see arrow 2

3. Place the luggage compartment cover

into a horizontal position.

To operate the convertible top, move the luggage compartment cover back

to its lower position.<

89

LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT IN THE MINI CONVERTIBLE

LOADING CARGO

Avoid overloading the vehicle so that the permissible carrying capacity of 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.<

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

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.<

90

LOADING CARGO

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. Subtract the combined weight of the

driver and passenger from XXX kilo- grams or YYY pounds

4. The resulting figure equals the available

amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the YYY 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.

Cargo and luggage load capacity The permissible load is the sum of the occu- pants' weights and the weight of the cargo. The greater the weight of the occupants, the less cargo can be transported.

91

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.

92

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.

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 149 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.<

93

94

OVERVIEW

CONTROLS

OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE

OWNER SERVICE PROCEDURES

TECHNICAL DATA

INDEX

95

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.

96

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.

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.<

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

97

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.<

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 78 or 81.

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.<

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.

98

REFUELING

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.<

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 gasoline; otherwise the catalytic converter will be permanently damaged.

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.

99

REFUELING

Do not use leaded gasoline; 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.<

100

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, 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.

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 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. Otherwise, incorrect tire pressures can cause driving instability or tire damage, ultimately resulting in accidents. 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.<

After correcting the tire inflation pressure, reinitialize the Flat Tire

Monitor, refer to page 73.<

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.<

101

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

up to 100 mph/

160 km/h

above 100 mph/

160 km/h

30/210

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 61/420

33/230

30/210

30/210

30/210

35/240

35/240

33/230

33/230

33/230

38/260

38/260

61/420

61/420

61/420

MINI COOPER/ MINI COOPER Convertible

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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