
REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
 67
Sport button*
Pressing the button causes your MINI to respond 
even more sportily.
>Engine responds more spontaneously to 
movements of the accelerator.
>Steering response is more direct.
With automatic transmission:
>More rapid gear shifting in Sport program.
Activating the system
Press the SPORT button.
The LED lights up.
SPORT is briefly displayed in the tachometer.
Deactivating the system
>Press the SPORT button again.
>Switch off the engine.
Flat Tire Monitor FTM*
The concept
The Flat Tire Monitor detects pressure loss in a 
tire by comparing the rotating speeds of the 
individual tires while moving.
If a tire loses pressure, its rolling circumference 
changes, and this in turn alters the speed of 
rotation. This change is detected and is reported 
as a flat tire.
Functional requirement
In order to assure the reliable reporting of a flat 
tire, the system must be initialized for the cor-
rect tire inflation pressure.Each time you correct the pressure in a 
tire, or change a wheel or tire, the system 
must be reinitialized.<
System limitations
The Flat Tire Monitor is unable to warn the driver 
of sudden, severe tire damage caused by exter-
nal factors, nor can it identify the gradual loss of 
pressure that will inevitably occur in all four tires 
over a lengthy period of time.
In the following situations, the system could be 
delayed or malfunction:
>System has not been initialized
>Driving on snowy or slippery road surface
>Performance-oriented style of driving: slip in 
the drive wheels, high lateral acceleration
>Snow chains are attached
When the vehicle is driven with a space-saver 
spare tire
*, page133, the Flat Tire Monitor can-
not function.
Initializing the system
The initialization is completed during driv-
ing, which can be interrupted at any time. 
When driving resumes, the initialization is con-
tinued automatically. 
Do not initialize the system if you are driving 
with snow chains or a space-saver spare tire
*.< 

REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
 69
>With a medium load: 
2 persons, cargo bay full, or 4 persons 
without luggage: 
approx. 94 miles/150 km
>With a full load: 
4 persons, load compartment full: 
approx. 30 miles/50 km
Drive cautiously and do not exceed a 
speed of 50 mph or 80 km/h; otherwise, 
an accident may occur. In the event of pressure 
loss, vehicle handling changes. This includes 
reduced tracking stability in braking, extended 
braking distance and altered natural steering 
characteristics. 
If unusual vibration or loud noises occur during 
the journey, this may be an indication that the 
damaged tire has finally failed. Reduce the vehi-
cle speed and stop as soon as possible. Other-
wise, sections of the tire may come loose and 
cause accidents. Do not continue driving and 
contact your MINI dealer.<
Tire Pressure 
Monitor TPM*
The concept
TPM checks the inflation pressures of the four 
mounted tires during a trip. The system notifies 
you if there is a significant loss of pressure in one 
or more tires.
Functional requirement
In order to assure the reliable reporting of a flat 
tire, the system must be reset while all tire infla-
tion pressures are correct.
Always use wheels with TPM electronics. Other-
wise, the system may malfunction.
Each time a tire inflation pressure has 
been corrected or a wheel or tire has been 
changed, reset the system.<
System limitations
TPM cannot warn you in advance of sud-
den severe tire damage caused by outside 
influences.<
The system does not work correctly if it has not 
been reset; for example, a flat tire may be indi-
cated even though the tire inflation pressures 
are correct.
The system is inactive and cannot indicate a flat 
tire if a wheel without TPM electronics, such as a 
compact spare wheel
*, has been mounted, or if 
TPM is temporarily malfunctioning due to other 
systems or devices using the same radio fre-
quency.
Resetting the system
Each time a tire inflation pressure has 
been corrected or a wheel or tire has been 
changed, reset the system.<
Using the button in the turn indicator 
lever
1.Start the engine, but do not start driving.
2.Briefly press the button in the turn indicator 
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3.Press and hold the button until the display 
changes.
4.Repeatedly press the button briefly until the 
symbol for Tire Pressure Monitor and 
"ACTIVE" are displayed. 

REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
 71
Malfunction
The small warning lamp flashes in yel-
low and then lights up continuously; the 
larger warning lamp comes on in yel-
low. No punctures can be detected.
This type of message is shown in the following 
situations:
>If there is a malfunction.
Have the system checked.
>If a wheel without TPM electronics has been 
mounted.
>If TPM is temporarily malfunctioning due to 
other systems or devices using the same 
radio frequency.
Message for unsuccessful system reset
Both warning lamps come on in yellow. 
The system is not reset after a tire has 
been changed, for example.
Check the tire inflation pressure and 
reset the system, page69.
Declaration according to NHTSA/
FMVSS 138 Tire Pressure Monitoring 
Systems
Each tire, including the spare, should be che-
cked monthly when cold and inflated to the 
inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle 
manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire infla-
tion pressure label. If your vehicle has tires of a 
different size than the size indicated on the vehi-
cle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you 
should determine the proper tire inflation pres-
sure for those tires. As an added safety feature, 
your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pres-
sure monitoring system TPMS that illuminates a 
low tire pressure telltale when one or more of 
your tires are significantly under-inflated. 
Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale 
illuminates, you should stop and check your tires 
as soon as possible, and inflate them to the 
proper pressure. Driving on a significantly 
under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat 
and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation also 
reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and 
may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping 
ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substi-tute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the 
driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire 
pressure, even if underinflation has not reached 
the level at which the TPMS low tire pressure tell-
tale illuminates.
The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined 
with the low tire pressure telltale. When the sys-
tem detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash 
for approximately one minute and then remain 
continuously lit. This sequence will continue 
upon subsequent vehicle startups as long as the 
malfunction exists. When the malfunction indi-
cator is illuminated, the system may not be able 
to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. 
TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of 
reasons, including the installation of replace-
ment or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle 
that prevent the TPMS from functioning prop-
erly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale 
after replacing one or more tires or wheels on 
your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or 
alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to 
continue to function properly. 

Wheels and tires
104
Wheels and tires
Tire inflation pressures
Information for your safety
It is not merely the tires' service life, but also 
driving comfort and, to a great extent, driving 
safety that depend on the condition of the tires 
and the maintenance of the specified tire 
pressure.
Checking pressure
Check the tire inflation pressure regularly 
and correct it, if necessary: at least twice a 
month and before starting long trips. If you fail 
to observe this precaution you may be driving 
on tires with incorrect tire pressures, a condition 
that can not only compromise your vehicle's 
driving stability, but also lead to tire damage and 
the risk of an accident. Do not drive with 
deflated, i.e. flat tires, except when using run-
flat tires. A flat tire will seriously impair your 
vehicle's handling and braking response. 
Attempts to drive on a flat tire can lead to loss of 
control over the vehicle.<
Check the tire inflation pressures only on cold 
tires. This means after a maximum of 1.25 miles/
2 km driving or when the vehicle has been 
parked for at least 2 hours. When tires are warm, 
the tire inflation pressure is higher.
After adjusting the tire inflation pressure, 
reinitialize the flat tire monitor, page67, 
or reset the tire pressure control, page69.<
Checking the tire inflation pressure of 
the space-saver spare tire*
A valve extension for checking the inflation pres-
sure is located behind the bumper.
Inflation pressure specifications
The tables below provide all the correct inflation 
pressures for the specified tire sizes at ambient 
temperature.
The tire inflation pressures apply to the 
tire sizes approved and the tire brands 
recommended by the manufacturer of 
your MINI. Your MINI dealer will be glad to 
advise you.<
For correct identification of the right tire infla-
tion pressures, observe the following:
>Tire sizes for your vehicle
>Load conditions
>Maximum allowable driving speed
Tire inflation pressures for driving up to 
100 mph or 160 km/h
For normal driving up to 100 mph or 160 km/h 
and to achieve optimum driving comfort, adjust 
pressures to the respective tire inflation pres-
sures listed on the following pages in the col-
umns for traveling speeds up to a maximum of 
100 mph or 160 km/h.
These tire inflation pressures can also be found 
on the driver's side door post when the driver's 
door is open. 

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.< 

Replacing components
130
Repairing a flat tire
Safety measures in the event of a 
breakdown: 
Park the vehicle as far as possible from moving 
traffic and switch on the hazard warning 
flashers.
Turn the steering wheel until the front wheels 
are in the straight-ahead position and engage 
the steering wheel lock. Engage the parking 
brake and shift into 1st or reverse gear or place 
the selector lever in position P.
All passengers should be outside the vehicle and 
in a safe place, e.g. behind a guardrail.
Erect a warning triangle or warning flasher at the 
appropriate distance if necessary. Comply with 
all safety guidelines and regulations.<
In the event of a flat tire, different procedures 
should be followed depending on the equip-
ment included in your vehicle:
>MINI Mobility System, refer to the following 
section
>Run-flat tires, page114
>Tire change with space-saver spare tire, 
page132
MINI Mobility System with onboard 
vehicle tool kit and tire change set*
Preparations
Use of the MINI Mobility System may be ineffec-
tive if the tire puncture measures approx. 1/8 in/
4 mm or more. Contact the nearest MINI dealer 
if the tire cannot be made drivable with the 
Mobility System.
Do not remove foreign bodies which have pen-
etrated the tire if possible.
Follow the instructions on using the Mobil-
ity System found on the compressor and 
the sealant bottle.<
Remove the adhesive label for the speed limit 
from the sealant bottle and affix it to the steer-
ing wheel.The Mobility System with onboard vehicle tool 
kit and tire change set
* is located under the 
floor mat in the cargo bay.
1Sealant bottle
2Hexagon wrench
*
3Vehicle jack*
4Wheel stud wrench
5Flat screwdriver/Phillips screwdriver, towing 
eyelet
6Compressor
7Package with valve removal tool
Sealant and compressor
1Sealant bottle and adhesive label with speed 
limit
2Filling hose
Note the use-by date on the sealant 
bottle.< 

Replacing components
132
Wrap the empty sealant bottle in suitable mate-
rial to avoid dirtying the cargo bay. Stow the 
Mobility System back in the vehicle.
Distributing the sealant
Immediately drive approx. 3 mls/5 km to evenly 
distribute the sealant.
Do not exceed speeds of 50 mph/
80 km/h.
If possible, do not drop below 10 mph/
20 km/h.<
Correcting the tire inflation pressure
1.After driving approx. 3 mls/5 km or ten min-
utes, stop at a suitable location.
2.Screw the connection hose 2 of the com-
pressor directly onto the tire valve.
3.Insert the plug 3 into the power socket in the 
vehicle interior.
4.Correct the inflation pressure to 26 psi/
180 kPa. With the engine running:
>To increase the inflation pressure: switch on 
the compressor. To check the current infla-
tion pressure, switch off the compressor.
Do not run the compressor for longer 
than 10 minutes; otherwise, the 
device will overheat and possibly be 
damaged.<
>To decrease the inflation pressure: press the 
release button 5.
If the tire cannot maintain the inflation 
pressure, drive the vehicle again, refer to 
Distributing the sealant. Then repeat steps 
1to4.
If an inflation pressure of 26 psi/180 kPa still 
cannot be reached, the tire is too heavily dam-
aged. Contact the nearest MINI dealer.<
Driving on
Do not exceed the permitted maximum 
speed of 50 mph/80 km/h; doing so may 
result in an accident.<
Replace the defective tire as soon as possible 
and have the new wheel/tire assembly bal-
anced.Have the Mobility System refilled.
Changing wheels
Space-saver spare tire*
To change a space-saver spare tire, proceed as 
follows:
>Remove the space-saver spare tire, 
page133
>Prepare for tire change, page133
>Jack up vehicle, page134
>Mount space-saver spare tire, page134
>Tighten lug bolts, page134
>Drive with space-saver spare tire, page133
Tire change set for a space-saver 
spare tire*
On vehicles with a space-saver spare tire, the 
tire change set with onboard tools is stored 
under the floor mat in the cargo bay.
1Chock, folding
2Hub cover remover
3Wheel stud wrench
4Vehicle jack
5Special wrench for removing the space-
saver spare tire
6Flat screwdriver/Phillips screwdriver
7Towing eyelet
8Lifting handle
The onboard vehicle tool kit includes a pouch 
with a plastic bag in which you can place the 
damaged wheel. 

REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
 133
Removing the space-saver spare tire
The screw connection of the space-saver spare 
tire is under the floor mat in the cargo bay, on 
the base of the storage compartment for the tire 
change set.
1.Unscrew the screw connection with the spe-
cial wrench.
2.Take out the cover panel.
3.Screw the lifting handle from the onboard 
vehicle tool kit onto the thread.
4.Raise the lifting handle slightly.
5.Squeeze the securing spring.
6.The space-saver spare tire is released and 
must be held by the lifting handle.
7.Lower the space-saver spare tire with the 
lifting handle.
8.Unscrew the lifting handle.9.Pull the space-saver spare tire underneath 
the vehicle out towards the rear.
10.Position the space-saver spare tire with the 
valve facing upward.
11.Unscrew the valve extension from the valve 
of the space-saver spare tire.
12.Unscrew the dust cap from the extension 
and place it on the valve of the space-saver 
spare tire.
Due to its different dimensions, the dam-
aged wheel cannot be placed in the recess 
for the space-saver spare tire.<
Driving with the space-saver spare tire
Drive cautiously and do not exceed a 
speed of 50 mph/80 km/h. Changes may 
occur in vehicle handling such as lower track sta-
bility during braking, longer braking distances 
and changes in self-steering properties when 
close to the handling limit. These properties are 
more noticeable with winter tires.<
Only one space-saver spare tire may be 
mounted at one time. Mount a wheel and 
tire of the original size as soon as possible, to 
avoid any safety risks.<
Check the tire inflation pressure at the ear-
liest opportunity and correct it if neces-
sary. Replace the defective tire as soon as possi-
ble and have the new wheel/tire assembly 
balanced.<
Preparing for a tire change
Observe the safety precautions regarding 
flat tires on page130.<
Additional safety measures when chang-
ing tires: