Controls overview
56
Fuel gauge
Fuel tank capacity
Approx. 13.2 US gallons/50 liters.
You can find information on refueling on
page103.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies for a longer period,
when you are driving in mountainous areas, for
example, the indicator may fluctuate slightly.
Reserve
Once the fuel level has fallen to the reserve zone
of approx. 2.1 gallons/8 liters, the remaining
indicator lamps change from orange to red,
arrow. The tachometer
displays the remaining
cruising range. An indicator lamp comes on
when the remaining range is less than approx.
30 miles/50 km.
If the range displayed is less than
30 miles/50 km, be sure to refuel; other-
wise, engine functions are not guaranteed and
damage could occur.<
Computer*
Displays in tachometer
Press the button in the turn indicator lever
repeatedly to call up various items of infor-
mation.
The following items of information are displayed
in the order listed:
>Cruising range
>Average fuel consumption
>Current fuel consumption
>Average speed
>Current vehicle speed
>MINI Convertible: Always Open Timer
To set the corresponding units of measure, refer
to Formats and units of measure on page59.
Cruising range
Displays the estimated cruising range available
with the remaining fuel. The range is calculated
on the basis of the way the car has been driven
over the last 18 miles/30 km and the amount of
fuel currently in the tank.
If the range displayed is less than
30 miles/50 km, be sure to refuel; other-
wise, engine functions are not guaranteed and
damage could occur.<
Average fuel consumption
Calculated for the time the engine has been
running.
To reset average fuel consumption: press the
button in the turn indicator lever for approx.
2seconds.
Current fuel consumption
Displays the current fuel consumption to allow
you to see whether your current driving style is
conducive to fuel economy with minimum
exhaust emissions.
Average speed
Periods with the vehicle parked and the engine
switched off are not included in the calculations
of average speed.
To reset average speed: press the button in the
turn indicator lever for approx. 2 seconds.
Refueling
102
Refueling
Switch off the engine before refueling;
otherwise, fuel cannot be added to the
tank and a message will be displayed.<
Take all precautionary measures and
observe all applicable regulations when
handling fuel. Do not carry any spare fuel con-
tainers in your vehicle. They can develop a leak
and cause an explosion or cause a fire in the
event of an accident.<
Fuel filler flap
Opening
1.Open the fuel filler flap.
2.Turn the gas cap counterclockwise.
3.Place the gas cap in the bracket attached to
the fuel filler flap.
Closing
Fit the cap and turn it clockwise until you clearly
hear a click.
Do not pinch the band attached to the
cap; otherwise, the cap cannot be closed
properly and fuel vapors can escape. A message
will be displayed if the gas cap is loose or
missing.<
Manually releasing the fuel filler flap
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can
manually unlock the fuel filler flap:
1.Remove the cover from the left-hand side-
wall of the cargo bay.
MINI:
MINI Convertible:
2.Pull on the green knob with the fuel pump
symbol. The fuel filler flap is released.
By way of example, the illustration shows the
sidewall of the cargo compartment in the MINI.
REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
103
Observe the following when refueling
Take all precautionary measures and
observe all applicable regulations when
handling fuel; otherwise, there is a danger of
personal injury and property damage.<
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle com-
pletely into the filler pipe. Avoid lifting the filler
nozzle while filling the tank, as that would
lead to
>premature pump shutoff
>reduced efficiency of the fuel-vapor recov-
ery system.
The fuel tank is full when the filler nozzle clicks
off the first time.
Fuel tank capacity
If the range displayed is less than
30 miles/50 km, be sure to refuel; other-
wise, engine functions are not guaranteed and
damage could occur.<
Approx. 13.2 US gallons/50 liters, including the
reserve capacity of 2.1 US gallons/8 liters.
Fuel specifications
Do not use leaded gasoline; otherwise,
permanent damage to the catalytic con-
verter will result.
Do not fill the tank with E85, i.e. fuel containing
85% ethanol, nor with FlexFuel. Otherwise,
the engine and fuel supply system will be
damaged.<
Required fuel
Super Premium gasoline/AKI 91
This gasoline is highly recommended.
However, you may also use gasoline with less
AKI. The minimum AKI Rating is:
>Cooper S, John Cooper Works: 89
>Cooper: 87
If you use gasoline with this minimum AKI Rat-
ing, the engine may produce knocking sounds
when starting at high outside temperatures. This
has no effect on the engine life.Do not use any gasoline below the speci-
fied minimum fuel grade. Otherwise, the
engine could be damaged.<
Use high-quality brands
Field experience has indicated significant differ-
ences in fuel quality: volatility, composition,
additives, etc., among gasolines offered for sale
in the United States and Canada. Fuels contain-
ing up to and including 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
drivability, starting and stalling problems
especially under certain environmental condi-
tions such as high ambient temperature and
high altitude.
Should you encounter drivability problems
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
such as gasoline that is advertised as Top Tier
Detergent Gasoline.
Failure to comply with these recommendations
may also result in unscheduled maintenance.<
REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
115
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
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 page66.<
Maintenance
120
Emissions
The warning lamps come on. The vehicle
is producing higher emissions. You can
continue your journey, but moderate
your speed and exercise due caution.
Have the car checked as soon as possible.
Under certain circumstances, one of the lamps
will flash or light up continuously. This indicates
excessive misfiring or a malfunction in the
engine. If this happens, reduce your speed and
visit the nearest MINI dealer as soon as possible.
Severe misfiring can quickly lead to serious dam-
age of emissions-related components, espe-
cially the catalytic converter. In addition,
mechanical engine components can become
damaged.
If the fuel filler cap is not properly tight-
ened, the OBD system may conclude
that fuel vapors are escaping, causing
an indicator to light up. If the filler cap is then
tightened, the indicator should go out within a
few days.
Data recorders
Your vehicle may be equipped with one or sev-
eral measuring or diagnostic modules or a
device for recording or sending certain vehicle
data or information.
Technical data
158
MINI Convertible
Never exceed either the approved axle loads or
the gross vehicle weight.
Capacities
CooperCooper SJohn Cooper Works
Curb weight, ready for travel, with all optional extras
>Manual transmission lbs/kg 2,745/1,245 2,855/1,295 2,877/1305
>Automatic trans-
mission lbs/kg 2,822/1,280 2,921/1,325 –
Approved gross weight
>Manual transmission lbs/kg 3,560/1,615 3,671/1,665 3,693/1675
>Automatic trans-
mission lbs/kg 3,638/1,650 3,737/1,695 –
Approved front axle load
>Manual transmission
>Automatic transmis-
sion lbs/kg 1,863/845 1,951/885 1,962/890
lbs/kg 1,940/880 2,017/915 –
Approved rear axle load lbs/kg 1,786/810 1,786/810 1,797/815
Cargo bay capacity cu ft/
liters6.0 - 23.3/
170 - 6606.0 - 23.3/
170 - 6606.0 - 23.3/
170 - 660
US gal/US quartsLitersNotes
Fuel tank 13.2/– approx. 50 Fuel grade: page103
including reserve of 2.1/– approx. 8
Window washer system incl.
headlamp washer system –/4.8 approx. 4.5 For more details: page53
REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
161
Bottle holders, refer to
Cupholders89
Brake Assist65
Brake fluid, refer to Service
requirements60
Brake lamps
– replacing bulbs129
Brake pads, breaking in92
Brake rotors93
– brakes92
– breaking in92
Brake system92
– breaking in92
– disc brakes93
– MINI Maintenance
System119
Brakes
– ABS65
– breaking in92
– MINI Maintenance
System119
– parking brake47
– service requirements60
Brakes, refer to Braking
safely93
Breakdown service, refer to
Roadside Assistance136
Break-in period92
Breaking in the clutch92
Bulb changing, refer to Lamps
and bulbs125
Button for starting the
engine46
Buttons on the steering
wheel11
C
California Proposition 65
warning5
Can holders, refer to
Cupholders89
Capacities158
Car battery, refer to Vehicle
battery135
Car care121
Car key, refer to Keys/remote
controls20Car phone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest87
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual
Car wash, care121
Car washes121
Care121
– car washes121
– car-care products121
– CD/DVD drives124
– external121
– high-pressure washers122
– internal123
– leather123
– manual washing122
– upholstery and fabrics123
– windows122
– wiper blades122
Cargo area
– capacity157
Cargo bay94
– Comfort Access29
– cover94
– lamp78
– opening from outside26
Cargo bay, expanding94
Cargo bay lamp78
Cargo bay lid, refer to
Tailgate26
Cargo loading95
– securing cargo96
– stowing cargo96
– vehicle94
Cargo, securing96
Carpets, care123
Catalytic converter, refer to
Hot exhaust system92
Center armrest87
Center brake lamp129
Center console, refer to
Around the center
console14
Central locking system21
– Comfort Access28
– from inside25
– from outside21
Changing bulbs
125
Changing wheels132Chassis number, refer to
Engine compartment117
Check Control62
Child restraint systems43
Child seats43
Child-restraint fixing system
LATCH44
Chock, folding
– space-saver spare tire132
Chrome parts, care123
Chrome parts, refer to
Care121
Cigarette lighter89
Cleaning headlamps52
– washer fluid53
Clock55
– 12h/24h mode59
– setting time62
Closing
– from inside25
– from outside21
Clothes hooks88
Cockpit10
Cold start, refer to Starting the
engine47
Comfort Access28
– replacing the battery30
– what to observe before
entering a car wash29
Comfort area, refer to Around
the center console14
Compartment for remote
control, refer to Ignition
lock46
Computer56
Condensation, refer to When
the vehicle is parked93
Condition Based Service
CBS119
Configuring settings, refer to
Personal Profile20
Confirmation signals for
vehicle locking/unlocking23
Connecting vacuum cleaner,
refer to Connecting electrical
appliances89
Consumption indicator
– average fuel consumption56
From A to Z
162
Consumption, refer to Average
fuel consumption56
Control Display
– settings58
Controls and displays10
Convenient access, refer to
Comfort Access28
Convenient operation
– convertible top24
– windows22
Convenient start, refer to
Starting the engine47
Convertible top32
Coolant118
– checking level118
– filling118
Coolant temperature55
Cooling fluid, refer to
Coolant118
Cooling, maximum83
Copyright2
Cruising range56
Cupholders89
Curb weight, refer to
Weights157
Current fuel consumption56
D
Dashboard instruments, refer
to Displays12
Dashboard lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting78
Dashboard, refer to Cockpit10
Data154
– capacities158
– dimensions155
– engine154
– weights157
Data recorders120
Date
– setting62
Daytime running lights76
DBC Dynamic Brake Control,
refer to Brake Assist65
Deactivating front passenger
airbags73Deadlocking, refer to
Locking22
Defect
– door lock24
– fuel filler flap102
Defogging windows82,83
Defrost position, refer to
Defrosting windows82,83
Defrosting windows82,83
Defrosting windows and
removing condensation
– air conditioner82
– automatic climate control83
Differential, breaking in92
Digital clock55
Dimensions155
Dipstick, engine oil117
Directional indicators, refer to
Turn signals50
Displacement, refer to Engine
data154
Display lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting78
Displays12
– instrument combination12
Displays and controls10
Displays, care124
Disposal
– of coolant118
– remote control battery30
– vehicle battery135
Distance remaining to service,
refer to Service
requirements60
Distance warning, refer to Park
Distance Control PDC64
Diving stability control
systems64
Door key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control
20
Door lock24
Door lock, confirmation
signals23
Doors, manual operation24
DOT Quality Grades112
Drinks holders, refer to
Cupholders89Drive-off assistant, refer to Hill
Assist66
Driving dynamics control, refer
to Sport button67
Driving lamps, refer to Parking
lamps/low beams75
Driving notes92
Driving off on inclines, refer to
Hill Assist66
Driving through water93
Driving tips, refer to Driving
notes92
Dry air, refer to Cooling
function84
DTC Dynamic Traction Control
DTC66
Dynamic Brake Control DBC,
refer to Brake Assist65
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC65
Dynamic Traction Control66
E
Electric power windows
– initializing31
Electrical malfunction
– convertible top34
– door lock24
– fuel filler flap102
– trunk lid26
Electronic brake-force
distribution65
Electronic Stability Program
ESP, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC65
Emergency operation, refer to
Manual operation
– convertible top34
– door lock24
– fuel filler flap102
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission50
– trunk lid26
Emergency services, refer to
Roadside Assistance136