
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