61
OVERVIEW REPAIRS OPERATIONCONTROLS DATA INDEX
ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) The concept The ABS keeps the wheels from locking
while braking, thereby enhancing active
driving safety.
ABS also includes Electronic Brake Force
Distribution (EBD).Braking with ABSTo achieve optimal performance from ABS
when reacting to critical situations, you
should apply maximum pressure to the
brake pedal – panic stop.
Since the vehicle remains maneuverable,
you can still go around any obstacles with
the smallest possible steering movements.
Pulsation of the brake pedal in conjunction
with the sound of hydraulic regulation indi-
cates to you that you are driving at the limit
and reminds you to readapt your vehicle's
speed to road surface conditions.
Cornering Brake Control (CBC)Cornering Brake Control (CBC) is an
enhancement of ABS that improves vehicle
stability especially when braking during
cornering.
When the vehicle is being braked, the rear
wheels are relieved from load, and this can
cause the vehicle to oversteer in curves.
CBC counteracts this by making use of uni-
lateral braking pressure to generate a stabi-
lizing counter torque while braking outside
of the ABS control range.Electronic Brake Force Distribution
(EBD)In order to achieve a short braking distance
when the vehicle is fully loaded, your vehi-
cle is equipped with relatively large brakes
on the rear axle. EBV continuously moni-
tors the speeds of the rear wheels in rela-
tion to the front wheels in order to prevent
overbraking of the rear wheels even when
the vehicle has a light load. If the rear
wheels tend to lock, the EBV controls their
slip, ensuring operating stability.
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82
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: EngineUp to 1,250 miles / 2,000 km:
>Drive at various vehicle and engine
speeds
>Do not exceed an engine speed of
4,500 rpm or a vehicle speed of 95 mph /
150 km/h.
>Absolutely avoid using the full-throttle
or kickdown position for the accelerator.
Up to 1,250 miles / 2,000 km:
Engine and road speeds can be gradually
increased.
You should also comply with these break-in
procedures if the engine has to be replaced
at a later point.
TiresDue 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 systemApprox. 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.ClutchRoughly 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.
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92
WHEEL AND TIRE REPLACEMENT
Unprofessional attempts by laymen
to service tires can lead to damage
and accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled profes-
sionals only. Your MINI Dealer will be glad
to assist you with both their expertise and
the proper equipment for your vehicle.<
The correct wheel and tire combination
also affects various systems that would
otherwise be impaired, e.g. ABS or DSC.
Have the wheels balanced after each tire or
wheel replacement.
The manufacturer of your MINI rec-
ommends that you avoid using
retread tires, as this could impair driving
safety. This is due to the possible variations
in casing structures and, in some cases, to
their extreme age, which can lead to a
decrease in their durability.<
The correct wheels and tires
The manufacturer of your MINI rec-
ommends never mounting wheels
and tires that have not been specifically
approved by the manufacturer for use on
your particular model. Although other
wheels and tires may theoretically have the
same dimensions, variations in factors such
as manufacturing tolerances can result in
contact between tire and bodywork, ulti-
mately leading to serious accidents. The
manufacturer of your MINI cannot evaluate
non-approved wheels and tires to deter-
mine if they are suited for use, and there-
fore cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are fitted.<
Recommended tire makes:
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single tread
configuration from a single manufacturer.
In the event of a flat tire, remount the pre-
vious wheel and tire combination as soon
as possible.
Run Flat tires:
If your MINI is equipped with Run Flat tires
– refer to Run Flat tires – use only these
tires, since no space-saver spare tire may be
available in the event of a flat. Special characteristics of winter tires The manufacturer of your MINI 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.
For mounting winter tires, refer to the
descriptions under Tire condition, page 91,
and Wheel and tire replacement.
Run Flat tires:
If your MINI is equipped with Run Flat tires
– refer to Run Flat tires – use only these
tires, since no space-saver spare tire may be
available in the event of a flat.
Observing speeds:
Never exceed the maximum speed
for which the winter tires are rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to ser-
vice tires can lead to damage and accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled profes-
sionals only. The technicians at your MINI
Dealer will be glad to assist you with the
required professional knowledge and spe-
cialized equipment.<
StorageStore 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 maxi-
mum tire inflation pressure specified on
the tire sidewall.
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101
OVERVIEW REPAIRSOPERATIONCONTROLS DATA INDEX
BRAKE FLUIDWarning lamp
If the brake warning lamp comes
on with the parking brake released:
The brake fluid level is too low,
refer to page 15.
Brake warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Adding brake fluid To add brake fluid or to determine and cor-
rect the cause of brake fluid loss, please
consult your MINI Dealer. Your MINI Dealer
is familiar with the specifications for fac-
tory-approved brake fluids, DOT 4.
Brake fluid loss may result in extended
brake pedal travel. If this occurs, refer to
the information on page 86.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is, it
absorbs moisture from the air over
time.
In order to ensure the brake system's safety
and reliability, have the brake fluid
changed every two years by a MINI Dealer,
also refer to the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet for US models or the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for
Canadian models. Brake fluid is toxic and
also damages vehicle paintwork. Always
store brake fluid in tightly closed original
containers kept well away from the reach
of children.
Do not spill the brake fluid and do not fill
the brake fluid reservoir beyond the MAX
mark. The brake fluid could ignite upon
contact with hot engine parts and cause
serious burns.<
Comply with the applicable environ-
mental laws regulating the disposal
of brake fluid.<
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124
BATTERYLocation in the MINI COOPERThe battery is located in the engine com-
partment.
Exact location, refer to page 96.Location in the MINI COOPER SThe battery is located in the cargo area
under the floor mat.Battery careThe battery is absolutely maintenance-free,
that is, the original electrolyte will normally
last for the service life of the battery under
moderate climatic conditions.
For all questions regarding the bat-
tery, please consult your MINI
Dealer.<
Charging the batteryOnly charge the battery in the vehicle via
the terminals in the engine compartment
with the engine switched off, refer to
'Jump-starting', page 126 ff.Disposal
Return used batteries to a recycling
point or your MINI Dealer. Maintain
the battery in an upright position for trans-
port and storage. Secure the battery to pre-
vent it from tilting during transport.<
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129
OVERVIEW REPAIRSOPERATION CONTROLS DATA INDEX
TOWINGTow-startingIt is not possible to start the engine of a
vehicle equipped with an automatic trans-
mission by towing or pushing.
For instructions on jump starting, refer to
page 126.
Never attempt to use your vehicle to push
another car, since damage to the energy-
absorbing bumpers could result.Towing a vehicle
Only tow vehicles with Continuously
Variable automatic Transmission
(CVT) with the front wheels raised or on a
special transport vehicle, otherwise the
transmission can be damaged.<
1. Place gear selector lever in neutral or idle
2. Towing speed:
Max. 45 mph / 70 km/h
3. Towing distance:
Max. 95 miles / 150 km
4. Leave the ignition key at position 1 to
ensure that the brake lamps, turn sig-
nals, horn and windshield wipers remain
operative, and to prevent the steering
lock detent from engaging
5. Switch on the hazard-warning system,
observe country-specific regulations.
Find some means of identifying the vehicle
in tow, for instance, by turning on the haz-
ard warning flashers.
Make sure that the ignition key
remains in position 1 even when the
electrical system has failed to prevent the
steering lock from engaging.
The steering and brakes are without power
assist when the engine is off. This means
that increased effort is required for steer-
ing and braking.<
Towing with a commercial tow truck>Do not tow with sling-type equipment
>Use a wheel-lift or flatbed carrier
>Please comply with applicable towing
laws.
Never allow passengers to ride in a
towed vehicle for any reason.<
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EVERYTHING FROM A TO Z
138
A
ABS Antilock Brake System 61
indicator lamp 16, 17
Accessories, refer to
For your own safety 7
Your individual vehicle 6
Activated-charcoal filter 72
Air circulation, refer to
Recirculated air mode 68, 71
Air conditioning
air conditioning system 68
automatic climate control 71
Air conditioning system 67
Air distribution
air conditioning system 68
automatic climate control 71
Air outlets, refer to
Ventilation 69, 72
Air pressure, refer to Tire
inflation pressure 87
Air supply
air conditioning system 68
automatic climate control 72
Air, drying, refer to Air
conditioning 68, 71
Airbags 65
indicator lamp 16
safe seating position 31
AKI, refer to Fuel quality 85 All Season traction Control
(ASC) 59
indicator lamp 16, 17
All-season tires, refer to Winter
tires 92
Antenna 103
Antifreeze
coolant 100
washer fluid 98
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 61
indicator lamp 16, 17
Approved axle load, refer to
Weights 134
Approved engine oils 99
Approved gross vehicle weight,
refer to Weights 134
ASC All Season traction
Control 59
indicator lamp 16, 17
Ashtray 74
Assistant systems, refer to
All Season traction Control
(ASC) 59
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 60
AUTO program, refer to
Automatic air distribution 71
Automatic
air distribution 71
air supply 71
cruise control 52 Automatic car washes 103
Automatic climate control 70
Automatic headlamp range
control for xenon lamps,
refer to Daytime driving
lamps 48
Average consumption
setting units 58
Average speed
setting units 58
Axle loads, refer to
Weights 134
B
Backrests, refer to
Adjusting seats 33
Backup lamp 44
bulb replacement 114
Bar, towing 128
Battery 124
disposal 22, 124
indicator lamp 15
jump-starting 126
remote control 22
Belts, refer to Safety belts 35
Beverage holders 74
Blower
air conditioning system 68
automatic climate control 72
Blower, refer to Air flow 68, 72 Blowers, refer to Draft-free
ventilation 69, 72
BMW 6
Bonnet 95
indicator lamp 16
Bore, refer to Engine data 132
Bottle holders, refer to
Beverage holders 74
Brake discs
brake system 86
break-in procedures 82
Brake fluid 101
adding 101
level 86
warning lamp 15
Brake lamps
bulb replacement 114
Brake pads 86
break-in procedures 82
warning lamp 16
Brake system 86
brake fluid level 86
brake pads 86
disc brakes 86
warning lamp 16
Brake wear warning
brake pads 86
warning lamp 16
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EVERYTHING FROM A TO Z
139
OVERVIEW REPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLS DATA INDEX
Brakes 86
ABS 61
brake fluid 101
break-in procedures 82
handbrake 43
indicator/warning
lamps 15, 16
Breaking in 82
Bulb replacement, refer to
Lamps and bulbs 111
Buttons in multifunction
steering wheel 18
Continuously Variable
automatic Transmission
(CVT) 46
C
California Proposition
65 warning 107
Capacities 135
Car care, refer to Caring for your
vehicle 103
Car keys, refer to Keys 22
Car radio, refer to separate
Owner's Manual
Car telephone, refer to separate
Owner's Manual
Car vacuum cleaner,
connecting, refer to Cigarette
lighter socket 74
Car wash 103 Car wash, refer to Washing
your vehicle 103
Car-care products 103
Care, vehicle 103
Cargo area 75
cover 75
emergency operation, refer
to Manual operation 27
foldable rear backrest 75
lid, refer to Tailgate 27
volume, refer to Weights 134
Cargo area lamps
bulb replacement 116
Cargo area net 77
Carpet care 104
Cassette operation, refer to
Owner's Manual for Radio
Catalytic converter, refer to
High temperatures 83
CBC Cornering Brake Control 61
warning lamp 16
CD changer, refer to separate
Owner's Manual
CD operation, refer to
Owner's Manual for Radio
Center high-mount brake lamp
bulb replacement 114
Central locking system 23
interior 26
Changing bulbs, refer to Lamps
and bulbs 111 Changing tires
space-saver spare tire 117
Charge-current indicator
light 15
Child seat, refer to Child-
restraint systems 38
Child-restraint systems 38
Chock, folding
MINI Mobility System 121
Run Flat tires 93
space-saver spare tire 117
Chrome parts, refer to Caring
for your vehicle 104
Chrome-plated parts, care 104
Cigarette lighter 74
Cigarette lighter socket 74
Circulation of air, refer to
Recirculated air mode 68, 71
Cleaning the rear window 51
Cleaning the vehicle, refer to
Caring for your vehicle 103
Clock 56
Closing
from inside 26
from outside 23
Clothes hooks 83
Clutch
break-in procedures 82
Cockpit 12
Cold start, refer to
Starting the engine 41 Compact disk operation, refer
to Owner's Manual for Radio
Compartments 73
Compression, refer to Engine
data 132
Compressor, refer to MINI
Mobility System
operation, refer to
Reinflating tires 122
storage location 110
Computer, refer to Onboard
computer 57
Condensed water, refer to Air
conditioning 68, 71
Configuring settings, refer to
Vehicle Memory 37
Consumption, refer to Average
consumption 58
Consumption, refer to Current
consumption 58
Contents 2
Continuously Variable
automatic Transmission
(CVT) 45
ignition 41
indicator lamp 47
interlock 41
selector lever lock 45
shiftlock 45
towing 129
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