Wheels and tires
112
Recommended tire brands
For each tire size, the manufacturer of your MINI
recommends certain tire brands. They are
marked with a clearly visible MINI designation
on the sidewall of the tire.
When properly used, these tires meet the high-
est standards in terms of safety and handling
characteristics.
Run-Flat Tires*
When mounting new tires or changing over from
summer to winter tires and vice versa, mount
Run-Flat Tires for your own safety. Keep in mind
that no space-saver spare tire is available in the
event of a flat. Your MINI Dealer will be glad to
advise you.
Special characteristics of winter tires
The manufacturer of MINI recommends the use
of winter tires on snowy roads or if temperatures
drop below 457/ +76. Although all-season
M+S tires provide better winter traction than
summer tires, they generally fail to provide the
same levels of cold-weather performance as
winter tires.
Pay attention to speed
Always comply with the speed limit for the
winter tires mounted on your car; failure
to do so could result in tire damage and acci-
dents.<
If the car is capable of speeds higher than that
permitted for the winter tires, a label stating the
maximum permitted speed for the mounted
tires must be displayed in your field of view. Spe-
cialist tire dealers and your MINI Dealer can sup-
ply these labels.
Storage
Always store wheels and tires in a cool, dry place
with as little exposure to light as possible.
Always protect tires against all contact with oil,
grease and fuels.
Do not exceed the maximum tire inflation pres-
sure indicated on the sidewall of the tire.
Swapping wheels among the axles
Depending on the individual use, front and rear
tires may exhibit different wear and tear.
In order to maintain an even wear and tear, the
wheels may be rotated between the axles. Your
MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you.
Always check the inflation pressure after the tire
rotation, if necessary change the pressure.
Snow chains*
Only certain types of fine-link snow chains have
been tested by the manufacturer of your MINI,
classified as road-safe and recommended. Con-
tact your MINI Dealer for more details.
Only attach snow chains in pairs to the front
wheels with the following tires.
>175/65 R 15 M+S
>175/60 R 16 M+S
MINI John Cooper Works:
>185/50 R 17 86 H M+S XL RSC
Observe the manufacturer's instructions when
mounting snow chains. Do not exceed a speed
of 30 mph or 50 km/h.
Do not initialize the Flat Tire Monitor if
snow chains are mounted, otherwise the
instrument might issue an incorrect reading.
When driving with snow chains, it can be useful
to briefly deactivate the DSC or activate the DTC,
refer to page64.<
REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
115
Adding engine oil
Do not add the maximum quantity of 1 US
quart/1 liter of engine oil until the oil level has
dropped to just above the lower mark on the
dipstick, page114.
Add oil within the next 30 miles/50 km,
otherwise the engine could be dam-
aged.<
Keep oils, greases, etc. out of the reach of
children and comply with the warnings on
the containers. Otherwise, health hazards may
result.<
Oil change
Have the oil changed only by a MINI Dealer or a
workshop that has specially trained personnel
working in accordance with the specifications of
the MINI manufacturer.
Approved engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected has critical
significance for the operation and service life of
an engine. Based on extensive testing, the man-
ufacturer of your MINI approves only certain
grades of engine oil on a regular basis.
Only use High Performance Synthetic Oil
approved by the manufacturer of your MINI.
If MINI High Performance Synthetic Oil is not
available, you can add small quantities of
another synthetic oil in between oil changes.
Only use oils with the API SM specification or
higher.
If you have any further questions regard-
ing MINI High Performance Synthetic Oil
or approved synthetic oils, your MINI Dealer will
be glad to advise you.
www.miniusa.com to obtain this information.
Viscosity grades
Viscosity is a measure of an oil's flow rating and
is categorized in SAE classes.
The correct SAE grade for your MINI is deter-
mined by the climatic conditions of the region in
which you normally drive your MINI.
The approved oils are SAE 0W-40, 0W-30,
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These oils can be used for driving at all outside
temperatures.
Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling system
when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant
can cause burns.<
Coolant consists of half water and half additive.
Not all commercially available additives are suit-
able for your MINI. Your MINI Dealer knows
which additives are suitable and will be glad to
advise you.
Only use suitable additives, otherwise
engine damage may result. Because addi-
tives are harmful to your health, it is important
to follow the instructions on the containers.<
Comply with the appropriate environmen-
tal protection regulations when disposing
of coolant additives.<
Checking coolant level
1.Do not open the hood until the engine has
cooled down.
2.Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little
counterclockwise to allow any accumulated
pressure to escape, then continue turning to
open.
3.The coolant level is correct if it is between
the Min and Max markings.
REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
119
Care
Car-care products
Regular cleaning and care helps to maintain the
value of your MINI.
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends
using manufacturer-approved products to clean
and care for your vehicle.
MINI Service would be pleased to advise you on
cleaning and care products and services for your
MINI.
The ingredients of original MINI CareProd-
ucts have been tested, and the products
have been tested in the laboratory and in prac-
tice. They offer optimum care and protection for
your vehicle.<
Do not use any cleansers containing alco-
hol or solvents as these may cause dam-
age.<
Cleaning agents may contain hazardous
or health-damaging substances. Follow
the warning and hazard instructions on the
packaging. For interior cleaning, always open
the doors or windows of the vehicle.
Do not use any products that are not intended
for cleaning the vehicle.<
External care
Washing your vehicle
Especially during the winter months the
vehicle should be frequently washed. Dirt
and road salt can damage the vehicle.<
After washing the vehicle, apply the
brakes briefly to dry them, otherwise
water can reduce braking efficiency over the
short term and the brake rotors can corrode.<
Car washes
Avoid car washes with tracks higher than
4 in/10 cm, otherwise the chassis could be
damaged.<
Preference should be given to cloth car washes.
Do not use high-pressure car washes
because drops of water can penetrate
around the windows.<
Before driving into the car wash, check if the sys-
tem is suitable for your MINI. Observe the fol-
lowing points:
>Dimensions of the vehicle, page153.
>If necessary: Fold in the outside mirrors,
page 38.
>Maximum permissible tire width.
Preparations for driving into the car wash:
>Unscrew the rod antenna.
>Deactivate the rain sensor
* to prevent unin-
tentional wiping.
>Deactivate the rear windshield wiper and
protect it from damage. Ask the car wash
operator about measures that can be taken
to protect the wipers.
>Remove additional detachable body com-
ponents such as spoilers or telephone
antennas that could be damaged.
Automatic transmission
Before driving into the car wash, make sure that
the vehicle can roll:
1.Place the remote control, even with conve-
nient access, in the ignition lock.
2.Move the selector lever to position N.
3.Release the parking brake.
4.Switch off the engine.
5.Insert the remote control in the ignition lock
so that the vehicle can roll.
Indicator and warning lamps
148
Selector lever position P not engaged.
Ignition cannot be switched offEngage selector lever position P when
you wish to switch off the ignition,
page43.
Cruise control system failed Have the system checked.
Park Distance Control failed Have the system checked.
Bulb of exterior lighting system failedHave the exterior lighting checked as
soon as possible.
Low-beam headlamp or fog lamp
failedHave the lamps checked as soon as
possible.
High-beam headlamp failed Have the high-beam headlamps
checked.
Rear fog lamp failed Have the rear fog lamp checked.
Headlamp beam throw adjustment
system failedHave the headlamp beam throw
adjustment system checked.
Coolant level too low Add coolant immediately, page115.
Engine oil pressure too low Stop immediately and switch off the
engine. You cannot continue your
journey. Contact your MINI Dealer.
Lights up in red:
Service appointment overdue Arrange a service appointment.
Check service requirements, page57.
Lights up in yellow:
Service due Arrange a service appointment.
Check service requirements, page57.
12Cause What to do
From A to Z
158
From A to Z
INDEX
A
Accessories, refer to Your
individual vehicle4
Activated-charcoal filter for
automatic climate control82
Additives
– coolant115
– engine oil115
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Air
conditioner79
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Automatic
climate control80
Air conditioner78
Air conditioning mode
– air conditioner79
– automatic climate control80
– ventilation82
Air distribution
– automatic81
– individual80
– manual80
Air flow rate79,81
– air conditioning system79
– automatic climate control81
– heating, ventilation79
Air outlets, refer to Air vents78
Air pressure, checking, refer to
Tire inflation pressure102
Air recirculation, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode79,81
Air supply
– air conditioner79
– automatic climate control80
– ventilation82
Air vents78
Airbags70
– sitting safely34
– warning lamp72
Airing, refer to Ventilation82AKI, refer to Fuel
specifications101
Alarm system24
All-season tires, refer to Winter
tires112
Always Open Timer54
Ambient air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode79,81
Ambient lighting77
Antenna, care119
Antifreeze
– coolant115
– washer fluid50
Antilock Brake System ABS63
Anti-theft alarm system, refer
to Alarm system
24
Anti-theft system19
Approved axle loads, refer to
Weights155
Approved engine oils115
Approved gross vehicle
weight, refer to Weights155
Armrest, refer to Center
armrest85
Ashtray87
Assistant systems, refer to
– Dynamic Stability Control
DSC63
AUC Automatic recirculated-
air control81
Audio device, external85
AUTO program for automatic
climate control81
Automatic
– air distribution81
– air flow rate81
– cruise control50
– headlamp control73
Automatic climate control78
– automatic air distribution81
Automatic recirculated-air
control AUC81Automatic transmission with
Steptronic45
– interlock46
– overriding selector lever
lock47
– shiftlock46
– sport program46
AUX-In, refer to External audio
device85
Average fuel consumption53
– setting the units56
Average speed54
Axle loads, refer to
Weights155B
Background lighting, refer to
Ambient lighting77
Backrests, refer to Seats34
Backup lamps
– replacing bulb126,127
Band-aids, refer to First aid
pouch134
Bar, refer to Tow-starting,
towing away136
Battery132
– charging132
– disposal27,132
– jump starting134
– temporary power failure132
Battery renewal
– remote control27
Being towed136
Belt tensioner, refer to Safety
belts37
Belts, refer to Safety belts37
Beverage holders, refer to Cup
holders87
Blower, refer to Air flow
rate79,81
Bonnet113
REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
161
Engine
– breaking in90
– data152
– overheated, refer to Coolant
temperature52
– speed152
– starting44
– starting, convenient
access26
– switching off44
Engine compartment114
Engine coolant, refer to
Coolant115
Engine oil
– adding115
– additives, refer to Approved
engine oils115
– approved engine oils115
– capacity115
– checking level114
– dipstick114
– intervals between changes,
refer to Service
requirements57
– MINI Maintenance
System117
Engine oil level, checking114
Engine output, refer to Engine
data152
Engine starting, refer to
Starting the engine44
Error messages, refer to Check
Control60
ESP Electronic Stability
Program, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC63
Event data recorders118
Exhaust system, refer to Hot
exhaust system90
Exterior mirrors38
– adjusting38
– automatic heating38
– folding in and out38
External audio device85
External care
– 119Eyes
– for tow-starting and towing
away135
– for tying down loads95
F
Failure messages, refer to
Check Control60
Failure of an electrical
consumer133
Fasten safety belts reminder,
refer to Seat belt
reminder37
Fastening safety belts, refer to
Safety belts37
Filter
– microfilter for air
conditioner80
– microfilter/activated-
charcoal filter for automatic
climate control82
Fine wood, care122
First aid pouch134
Fixture for remote control,
refer to Ignition lock43
Flash when locking/
unlocking20
Flat tire
– Run-Flat Tires111
– Tire Pressure Monitor TPM66
Flat Tire Monitor FTM65
– indicating a flat tire66
– initializing the system65
– malfunction66
– snow chains65
– system limits65
Flat tires, refer to Tire
condition110
Floor mats, care121
Fog lamps
– replacing bulb125,127
Folding rear seat backrest92
Folding roof, refer to
Convertible top with
integrated sliding sunroof29
Footbrake, refer to Braking
safely91
Footwell lamps76For your own safety4
Front airbags70
Front fog lamps76
– indicator lamp138
– replacing bulb125
Front seat adjustment34
Frost on windows, refer to
Defrosting windows80,82
FTM, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor65
Fuel101
– gauge53
– high-quality brands101
– quality101
– specifications101
– tank capacity
156
Fuel clock, refer to Fuel
gauge53
Fuel display, refer to Fuel
gauge53
Fuel filler door100
– releasing in the event of
electrical malfunction100
Fuses133
G
Garage door opener, refer to
Integrated universal remote
control83
Gasoline
– refer to Average
consumption53
Gasoline display, refer to Fuel
gauge53
Gasoline, refer to Required
fuel101
Gear indicator
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic45
Gear shifting
– automatic transmission46
– manual transmission45
Gearshift lever
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic46
– manual transmission45
General driving notes90
REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
163
License plate lamp, bulb
replacement127
Light switch73
Light-alloy wheels, care121
Light-emitting diodes
LEDs124
Lighter87
– socket87
Lighting
– lamps and bulbs123
– of the instruments76
– of vehicle, refer to Lamps73
Limit149
Load94
Load securing equipment,
refer to Securing cargo95
Lock buttons of doors, refer to
Locking22
Locking
– adjusting confirmation
signal20
– from inside22
– from outside20
– without remote control, refer
to Convenient access26
Locking and unlocking doors
– confirmation signals20
– from inside22
– from outside19
Low beams73
– automatic73
– replacing bulb124
Lower back support, refer to
Lumbar support35
Luggage compartment
– emergency operation, refer
to Manual release24
– Increasing the capacity93
– opening from the inside24
Luggage compartment lid
– emergency operation, refer
to Manual release24
Luggage compartment lid,
refer to Tailgate23
Luggage compartment, refer
to Cargo bay23
Luggage rack, refer to Roof-
mounted luggage rack95
Lumbar support35M
M+S tires, refer to Winter
tires112
Maintenance, refer to Service
Booklet
Maintenance system117
Malfunction
– convertible top32
– trunk lid24
Malfunction warnings, refer to
Check Control60
Manual air distribution80
Manual mode
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic46
Manual operation
– door lock22
– fuel filler door100
– power convertible top32
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission47
– trunk lid24
Manual transmission45
Manual washing120
Master key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control18
Maximum cooling81
Maximum speed
– with winter tires112
Medical assistance, refer to
First aid pouch134
Microfilter
– for air conditioner80
– for automatic climate
control82
– MINI Maintenance
System117
Microfilter/activated-charcoal
filter
– MINI Maintenance
System117
Microphone for telephone14
MINI Internet page4
MINI Maintenance System117
Mirror dimming feature38Mirrors38
– exterior mirrors38
– heating38
– interior rearview mirror38
Mobile phone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest85
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual
Mobile phone, installation
location, refer to Center
armrest85
Mobile phone, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Mobility System128
Modifications, technical, refer
to For your own safety4
Monitoring system for tire
pressures, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor65
Multifunction switch
– refer to Turn signals/
headlamp flasher47
– refer to Wiper system48
Multifunctional steering
wheel, refer to Buttons on
the steering wheel11
N
Neck support, refer to Head
restraints36
Nets, refer to Storage
compartments86
New tires111
Number of cylinders, refer to
Engine data152
Nylon rope, refer to Tow
rope136
O
OBD socket, refer to Socket for
Onboard Diagnosis117
Octane ratings, refer to Fuel
specifications101
Odometer52
Oil consumption114
Oil level114
From A to Z
164
Oil, refer to Engine oil114
Old batteries, refer to
Disposal132
Onboard tool kit123
Opening and closing
– convenient access26
– from inside22
– from outside19
– using the door lock22
– via the remote control19
Opening and unlocking
– from inside22
Outlets
– refer to Ventilation82
Outlets, refer to Air vents78
Output, refer to Engine
data152
Outside temperature
display52
– changing unit of measure56
– on onboard computer56
Outside-air mode
– automatic climate control81
Overheated engine, refer to
Coolant temperature52
P
Paintwork, care120
Park Distance Control PDC62
Parking
– vehicle44
Parking aid, refer to Park
Distance Control PDC62
Parking brake45
Parking lamps, replacing
bulb125
Parking lamps/low beams73
Parts and accessories, refer to
Your individual vehicle4
Pathway lighting73
Personal Profile18
Pinch protection system
– windows29
Plastic parts, care122Pollen
– refer to Microfilter for air
conditioner80
– refer to Microfilter/activated-
charcoal filter for automatic
climate control82
Power convertible top30
Power failure132
Power windows28
Power windows, refer to
Windows28
Pressure monitoring of tires,
refer to Tire Pressure Monitor
TPM66
Pressure monitoring, tires65
– Flat Tire Monitor65
Pressure, tires102
Protective function, refer to
Pinch protection system
– windows29
Puncture
– Flat Tire Monitor65
R
Radio key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control18
Radio position, refer to Radio
readiness43
Radio readiness43
– switched off43
– switched on43
Rain sensor49
Range, refer to Cruising
range53
Reading lamps77
Rear fog lamp76
– indicator lamp138
– replacing bulb127
Rear lamps
– bulb replacement127
Rear lamps, refer to Tail
lamps126
Rear luggage rack*96
Rear seat backrest, folding92
Rear seats
– folding the backrests92
Rear window heating79,82Rearview mirror, refer to
Mirrors38
Recirculated-air mode79,81
Recirculation of air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode79,81
Reclining seat, refer to
Backrest35
Refueling100
Releasing
– bonnet113
Remote control18
– battery renewal27
– convenient access26
– garage door opener83
– malfunctions21,27
– service data117
– tailgate21
Replacement remote
control18
Replacing bulbs, refer to
Lamps and bulbs123
Replacing tires, refer to New
wheels and tires111
Reporting safety defects6
Reserve warning, refer to Fuel
gauge53
Reservoir for washer
systems50
Restraint systems
– for children40
– refer to Safety belts37
Reverse gear
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic46
– manual transmission45
Roadside Assistance134
Roadside parking lamps75
– replacing bulb125
Roadworthiness test, refer to
Service requirements57
Roof load capacity155
Roof-mounted luggage
rack95
Rope, refer to Tow-starting,
towing away136
RSC Runflat System
Component, refer to Run-
Flat Tires111