2009 MINI COOPER tow bar

Technology for driving comfort and safety
56
Technology for driving comfort
and safety
Park Distance Control
PDC*
The concept
PDC assists you with parking backwards. Acous-
tic signals warn you of the presence of an object
behind the vehicle. To measure the distance,
there are four ultrasonic sensors in either
bumper.
However, an acoustic warning does not sound
until an object is approx. 24 in/60 cm from the
corner sensors, or approx. 5 ft/1.50 m from the
center sensors.
PDC is a parking aid that can indicate
objects when they are approached slowly,
as is usually the case when parking. Avoid
approaching an object at high speed, otherwise
physical circumstances may lead to the system
warning being issued too late.<
Automatic mode
With the engine running or the ignition switched
on, the system is activated automatically after
approx. 1 second when you engage reverse gear
or move the automatic transmission selector
lever to position R. Wait this short period before
driving.
Acoustic signals
As the distance between vehicle and object
decreases, the intervals between the tones
become shorter. If the distance to the nearest
object falls to below roughly 1 ft/30 cm, then a
continuous tone sounds.
If the distance remains constant, e.g. when driv-
ing parallel to a wall, the acoustic signal stops
after approx. 3 seconds.
Adjustments
The volume of the acoustic signals can be
adjusted, refer to the Owner's Manual for Radio.
Malfunction
Indicator lamp comes on: PDC is mal-
functioning. Have the system checked.
To avoid this problem, keep the sensors
clean and free of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they will continue to operate effectively.
When using a high-pressure cleaner, do not direct
the jet toward the sensors for lengthy periods and
only spray from a distance of at least 4 in/10 cm.
System limitations
Even with PDC, final responsibility for esti-
mating the distance between the vehicle
and any obstructions always remains with the
driver. Sensors, too, have blind spots in which
objects cannot be detected. Moreover, ultra-
sonic detection can reach its physical limits with
objects such as trailer tow bars and couplings,
thin and wedge-shaped objects, etc. Low
objects already indicated, such as curbs, may
enter the sensors' blind spots before or after a
continuous audible signal is given. Higher, pro-
truding objects, such as wall ledges, may not be
detectable. Therefore, always drive cautiously,
otherwise there is a risk of personal injury or
property damage. Loud sound sources outside
or inside the car can drown out the PDC signal.<
Driving stability control
systems
Your MINI has a number of systems that help to
maintain the vehicle's stability even in adverse
driving conditions.
The laws of physics cannot be repealed,
even with driving stability control systems.
An appropriate driving style always remains the
responsibility of the driver. Therefore do not
reduce the additional safety margin by engaging
in hazardous driving thereby running the risk of
an accident.<
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Replacing components
Onboard tool kit
Your vehicle comes with an onboard tool kit that
varies with the equipment version; it is stored
underneath the level load floor.
>Mobility System with onboard tool kit and
tire change set
*117
>Tire change set with onboard tool kit for
space-saver spare tire119
Wiper blades
Changing the front wiper blades
1.Fold up the wiper arm.
2.Position the wiper blade horizontally.
3.Press the securing spring, arrow.
4.Unhook the wiper blade toward the wind-
shield.
5.Pull the wiper blade past the wiper arm
toward the top.
6.Insert the new wiper blade.
7.Press into position until you hear it engage.To avoid damage, make sure that the
wiper arms are against the windshield
before you open the bonnet.<
Changing the rear wiper blade
1.Fold up the wiper arm.
2.Rotate the wiper blade toward the back as
far as it will go, arrow.
3.Press the wiper blade against the limit and
thus out of the mounting.
4.Press the new wiper blade into the fixture
until it engages audibly.
Lamps and bulbs
Lamps and bulbs make an essential contribution
to vehicle safety. They should, therefore, be
handled carefully. The manufacturer of your
MINI recommends having your MINI Dealer per-
f o r m a n y w o r k t h a t y o u d o n o t f e e l c o m p e t e n t t o
perform yourself or that is not described here.
Never touch the glass of new bulbs with
your bare fingers, as even minute
amounts of contamination will burn into the
bulb's surface and reduce its service life. Use a
clean tissue, cloth or something similar, or hold
the bulb by its base.<
You can obtain a selection of replacement bulbs
at your MINI Dealer.
When working on electrical systems, always
begin by switching off the consumer in
question, otherwise short circuits could result. To
avoid possible injury or equipment damage when
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Giving and receiving assistance
126
Automatic transmission
Tow vehicles with automatic transmission
only with a tow truck or with the front
wheels lifted; otherwise the transmission can be
damaged.<
Towing with a tow bar
The towing vehicle must not be lighter
than the towed vehicle, otherwise it may
be impossible to maintain control.<
The tow fittings used should be on the same side
on both vehicles. Should it prove impossible to
avoid mounting the tow bar at an angle, please
observe the following:
>Clearance and maneuvering capability will
be sharply limited during cornering.
>The tow bar will generate lateral forces if it is
attached offset.
Attach the tow bar to the tow fittings only,
as attaching it to other parts of the vehicle
could result in damage.<
Towing with a tow rope
When starting off in the towing vehicle, make
sure that the tow rope is taut.
To avoid jerking and the associated
stresses on vehicle components when
towing, always use nylon ropes or nylon straps.
Attach the tow rope to the tow fittings only, as
attaching it to other parts of the vehicle could
result in damage.<
Towing with a tow truck
Have the MINI transported with a tow truck with
a so-called lift bar or on a flat bed.Do not lift the vehicle by a tow fitting or
body and chassis parts, otherwise damage
may result.<
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Tow-starting
Avoid tow-starting the vehicle whenever possi-
ble; instead, jump-start the engine, page123.
Vehicles with a catalytic converter should only
be tow-started when the engine is cold, vehicles
with an automatic transmission cannot be tow-
started at all.
1.Switch on hazard warning flashers, comply
with local regulations.
2.Switch on the ignition, page37.
3.Shift into 3rd gear.
4.Have the vehicle tow-started with the clutch
completely depressed and then slowly
release the clutch. After the engine starts,
immediately depress the clutch completely
again.
5.Stop at a suitable location, remove the tow
bar or rope and switch off the hazard warn-
ing flashers.
6.Have the vehicle checked.
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From A to Z
146
From A to Z
INDEX
A
Accessories, refer to Your
individual vehicle4
Activated-charcoal filter for
automatic climate control76
Additives
– coolant105
– engine oil105
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Air
conditioner73
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Automatic
climate control74
Air conditioner72
Air conditioning mode
– air conditioner73
– automatic climate control74
– ventilation76
Air distribution
– automatic75
– individual74
– manual74
Air flow rate73,75
– air conditioning system73
– automatic climate control75
– heating, ventilation73
Air outlets, refer to Air vents72
Air pressure, checking, refer to
Tire inflation pressure94
Air recirculation, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode73,75
Air supply
– air conditioner73
– automatic climate control74
– ventilation76
Air vents72
Airbags64
– sitting safely29
– warning lamp66
Airing, refer to Ventilation76AKI, refer to Fuel
specifications93
Alarm system24
All-season tires, refer to Winter
tires102
Ambient air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode73,75
Ambient lighting71
Antenna, care109
Antifreeze
– coolant105
– washer fluid44
Antilock Brake System ABS57
Anti-theft alarm system, refer
to Alarm system24
Anti-theft system19
Approved axle loads, refer to
Weights144
Approved engine oils105
Approved gross vehicle
weight, refer to Weights144
Armrest, refer to Center
armrest79
Arrival time
– computer49
Ashtray81
Assistant systems, refer to
– Dynamic Stability Control
DSC57
AUC Automatic recirculated-
air control75
Audio device, external79
AUTO program for automatic
climate control75
Automatic
– air distribution75
– air flow rate75
– cruise control45
– headlamp control67
Automatic climate control72
– automatic air distribution75Automatic recirculated-air
control AUC75
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic39
– interlock40
– overriding selector lever
lock41
– shiftlock40
– sport program40
AUX-In, refer to External audio
device79
Average fuel consumption48
– setting the units50
Average speed49
Axle loads, refer to
Weights144B
Background lighting, refer to
Ambient lighting71
Backrests, refer to Seats29
Backup lamps
– replacing bulb116
– replacing bulbs in MINI116
Band-aids, refer to First aid
pouch123
Bar, refer to Tow-starting,
towing away126
Battery122
– charging122
– disposal27,122
– jump starting123
– temporary power failure122
Battery renewal
– remote control27
Being towed125
Belt tensioner, refer to Safety
belts32
Belts, refer to Safety belts32
Beverage holders, refer to Cup
holders81
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Locking
– adjusting confirmation
signal20
– from inside22
– from outside20
– without remote control, refer
to Convenient access25
Locking and unlocking doors
– confirmation signals20
– from inside22
– from outside19
Low beams67
– automatic67
– replacing bulb114
Lower back support, refer to
Lumbar support30
Luggage compartment lid,
refer to Tailgate23
Luggage compartment, refer
to Cargo bay23
Luggage rack, refer to Roof-
mounted luggage rack88
Lumbar support30
M
M+S tires, refer to Winter
tires102
Maintenance, refer to Service
Booklet
Maintenance system107
Malfunction warnings, refer to
Check Control54
Manual air distribution74
Manual mode
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic40
Manual operation
– door lock22
– fuel filler door92
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission41
Manual transmission39
Manual washing110
Master key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control18
Maximum cooling75
Maximum speed
– with winter tires102Medical assistance, refer to
First aid pouch123
Microfilter
– for air conditioner74
– for automatic climate
control76
– MINI Maintenance
System107
Microfilter/activated-charcoal
filter
– MINI Maintenance
System107
Microphone for telephone14
MINI Internet page4
MINI Maintenance System107
Mirror dimming feature33
Mirrors33
– exterior mirrors33
– heating33
– interior rearview mirror33
Mobile phone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest79
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual
Mobile phone, installation
location, refer to Center
armrest79
Mobile phone, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Mobility System117
Modifications, technical, refer
to For your own safety4
Monitoring system for tire
pressures, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor59
Multifunction switch
– refer to Turn signals/
headlamp flasher41
– refer to Wiper system42
Multifunctional steering
wheel, refer to Buttons on
the steering wheel11
N
Neck support, refer to Head
restraints31Nets, refer to Storage
compartments80
New tires101
Number of cylinders, refer to
Engine data142
Nylon rope, refer to Tow
rope126
O
OBD socket, refer to Socket for
Onboard Diagnosis107
Octane ratings, refer to Fuel
specifications93
Odometer47
Oil consumption104
Oil level104
Oil, refer to Engine oil104
Old batteries, refer to
Disposal122
Onboard tool kit113
Opening and closing
– convenient access25
– from inside22
– from outside19
– using the door lock22
– via the remote control19
Opening and unlocking
– from inside22
Outlets
– refer to Ventilation76
Outlets, refer to Air vents72
Output, refer to Engine
data142
Outside temperature
display47
– changing unit of measure50
– on onboard computer50
Outside-air mode
– automatic climate control75
Overheated engine, refer to
Coolant temperature47
P
Paintwork, care110
Park Distance Control PDC56
Parking
– vehicle38
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From A to Z
154
Telephone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest79
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual
Telephone call, refer to the
Owner's Manual for the
telephone
Temperature display
– ice warning47
– outside temperature47
– setting the units50
Temperature of coolant, refer
to Coolant temperature47
Temperature setting
– air conditioner73
– automatic climate control75
Tensioning straps, refer to
Securing cargo88
The individual vehicle4
Third brake lamp, refer to
Center brake lamp117
Three-point safety belt32
Tightening the lug bolts
– keys119
– torque121
Tightening torque, refer to
Tightening the lug bolts121
Tire change set
– MINI Mobility System119
– space-saver spare tire119
Tire failure
– Flat Tire Monitor60
– indicator/warning lamp60
– MINI Mobility System117
– Run-Flat Tires60
– space-saver spare tire119
– Tire Pressure Monitor61
Tire inflation pressure94
– loss60
– space-saver spare tire94
Tire Pressure Monitor TPM61
– limitations of system61
– resetting system61
– warning lamp62
Tire pressure monitoring, refer
to Flat Tire Monitor59
Tire Quality Grading99Tires
– age100
– breaking in84
– changing, refer to Changing
wheels119
– condition100
– damage100
– inflation pressure94
– inflation pressure loss62
– minimum tread depth100
– new tires101
– pressure monitoring, refer to
Flat Tire Monitor59
– pressure monitoring, refer to
Tire Pressure Monitor
TPM61
– puncture60
– Run-Flat Tires101
– size99
– wear indicators, refer to
Minimum tread depth100
– winter tires102
Tires with safety features, refer
to Run-Flat Tires101
Tools, refer to Onboard tool
kit113
Torque142
– lug bolts121
Tow bar126
Tow fitting125
– screw thread125
Tow fittings for tow-starting
and towing away125
Tow rope126
Towing124
– car with automatic
transmission126
– methods126
Tow-starting124
TPM, refer to Tire Pressure
Monitor61
Track width, refer to
Dimensions143
Traction control, refer to
– Dynamic Stability Control
DSC57
Trailer operation
– Trailer loads and gross
vehicle weight144Transmission
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic39
– manual transmission39
– overriding selector lever lock
for automatic transmission
with Steptronic41
Transport securing devices,
refer to Securing cargo88
Transporting children safely35
Tread depth, refer to Minimum
tire tread100
Trip odometer47
Trip-distance counter, refer to
Trip odometer47
Triple turn signal activation42
Turn signal indicator41
– front, replacing bulb115
– indicator lamp12
– rear, replacing bulb116
– side, replacing bulb116
Turning circle, refer to
Dimensions143
Tying down loads, refer to
Cargo loading88
U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
UTQR99
Units
– average fuel consumption50
– temperature50
Universal garage door opener,
refer to Integrated universal
remote control77
Universal remove control77
Unlatching, refer to
Unlocking26
Unlocking
– from inside22
– from outside19
– tailgate26
– without remote control, refer
to Convenient access25
Upholstery, care110
USB-audio interface80
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