Maintenance
132
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
damage of emissions-related components,
especially 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 tight-
ened, the indicator should go out within a few
days.
Data memory
Your vehicle displays data about the operation,
malfunctions, and user settings. These data are
stored in the vehicle and can be partly stored in
the remote control; the data can be read by suit-
able devices, in particular at your service center.
The data read out are used for supporting the
service processes and repair or for optimization
and development of vehicle functions.
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AT A GLANCE REFERENCEMOBILITYCONTROLS DRIVING TIPS COMMUNICATIONS
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 Care Prod-
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
Preference should be given to cloth car washes.
Do not use automatic high-pressure car
washes; otherwise, water may drip into
the vehicle around the windows.<
Before driving into the car wash, check if the sys-
tem is suitable for your MINI. Observe the fol-
lowing points:
>Vehicle dimensions, page167
>If necessary: fold in the outside mirrors,
page39.
>Maximum permissible tire width
Avoid car washes with tracks higher than
4 in/10 cm; otherwise, the chassis could
be damaged.<
Preparations for driving into the car wash:
>Unscrew the rod antenna.
>Deactivate the rain sensor
* to prevent unin-
tentional wiping.
>Deactivate the rear window wiper
* and pro-
tect it from damage. Ask the car wash oper-
ator about measures that can be taken to
protect the wipers.
>Remove additional attachments, e.g. spoil-
ers or telephone antennas, if there is a pos-
sibility that they 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 Comfort
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.
Care
134
Steam jets/high-pressure washers
When using steam jets or high-pressure
washers, make sure that you maintain suf-
ficient distance from the vehicle and do not
exceed a maximum temperature of 1407/
606.
If the distance is too close, the pressure too high,
or the temperature too high, parts of the vehicle
can be damaged, or water can penetrate.
Observe the operating instructions for high-
pressure washers.<
Do not spray sensors such as Park Dis-
tance Control with high-pressure washers
for a long time or at a distance of less than 1 ft/
30 cm.<
Manual washing
Use a great deal of water and, if necessary, car
shampoo when washing your car by hand. Clean
the vehicle with a sponge or a washing brush
applying a slight amount of pressure.
Before cleaning the windshield, deacti-
vate the rain sensor or turn off the ignition
to prevent unintentional wiping.<
Observe local regulations regarding wash-
ing vehicles by hand.<
Headlamps
Do not wipe dry and do not use abrasive or cor-
rosive cleaning agents. Remove dirt and con-
tamination, such as insects, by soaking with
shampoo and then washing with plenty of
water.
Do not remove accumulated ice and snow with
an ice scraper; use window deicers instead.
Windows
Clean the outside and inside of the windows and
mirrors with a window cleaner.
Do not clean the mirrors with cleaners
containing quartz.<
Wiper blades
Clean with soapy water and change regularly to
prevent the formation of streaks.
Wax, preservatives and dirt on the win-
dows cause streaks when the windshield
wipers are on, and can cause premature wear of
the wiper blades and interfere with the rain sen-
sor.<
Care of the convertible top
The appearance and service life of the convert-
ible top largely depends on its proper care and
operation.
Please follow these instructions:
>Never attempt to fold and stow the convert-
ible top in the convertible compartment
when the top is wet or frozen. Otherwise,
water stains, mildew, and chafe marks may
occur.
>If water spots occur on the inside headliner
despite precautions, remove them using a
microfiber cloth and interior cleaner.
>If the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area
for a longer period of time, make sure that
there is sufficient ventilation.
>Remove any bird droppings immediately,
since they have corrosive properties which
will corrode the convertible top and damage
the rubber seals.
When attempting to remove stains from
the convertible top, do not use spot
removers, paint thinners, solvents, gasoline, or
similar fluids. These cleaners may damage the
rubber seals. The improper care or cleaning
methods may cause the convertible top and its
seams to leak.<
Use special convertible top cleaning agents if
attempting to remove heavy stains.
Always read and follow the manufacturer's
instructions.
Use an impregnating agent to treat the convert-
ible top once a year.
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AT A GLANCE REFERENCEMOBILITYCONTROLS DRIVING TIPS COMMUNICATIONS
Paintwork, care
Regular care helps your vehicle retain its value
and protects the paint from the long-term
effects of aggressive substances.
In some regions, environmental factors can
affect the vehicle paintwork and damage it. It is
therefore important to adjust the frequency and
extent of vehicle care correspondingly.
Immediately remove aggressive materials such
as spilled fuel, oil, grease, brake fluid, tree sap or
bird droppings to prevent damage to the paint-
work.
Removing paintwork damage
Depending on the severity of the damage,
immediately repair stone damage or
scratches to prevent rusting.<
The manufacturer of the MINI recommends
repairing paint damage professionally according
to factory specifications with original MINI
paints.
Preservation
Preservation is necessary when water no longer
beads on the clean paint surface. To preserve
the paint, only use preservatives that contain
carnauba or synthetic waxes.
Rubber seals
Only treat with water or rubber care products.
Do not use silicon sprays or other silicon-
containing care products on rubber seals;
otherwise, noise and damage could occur.<
Chrome parts*
Carefully clean vehicle parts such as the radiator
grill and door handles with copious quantities of
water and, if necessary, a shampoo additive,
especially when contaminated with road salt.
For additional treatment, use chrome polish.
Light-alloy wheels*
The system produces brake dust that collects on
the light alloy wheels. Clean them regularly with
acid-free wheel cleaner.Do not use aggressive, acid-containing,
highly alkaline, or abrasive cleansers or
steam jets hotter than 1407/606 as they may
cause damage.<
External sensors
Keep the outside sensors on the vehicle
such as the Park Distance Control clean
and ice-free to ensure that they function prop-
erly.<
Internal care
Upholstery/fabrics
Regularly use a vacuum cleaner to remove sur-
face dirt.
In case of serious spots such as liquid stains, use
a soft sponge or lint-free microfiber cloth and
suitable interior cleaners. Observe the instruc-
tions on the packaging.
Clean upholstery up to the seams. Do not
rub forcefully.<
Velcro fasteners on pants or other items of
clothing can damage seat covers. Make
sure that all Velcro fasteners are closed.<
Leather/leather coverings*
The leather processed by the manufac-
turer of your MINI is a high-quality natural
product. Light variations in the grain is one of
the typical properties of natural leather.<
Dust and road grit in the pores and folds of the
leather have an abrasive effect, leading to
increased wear and causing the leather surface
to become brittle prematurely. Use a cloth or
vacuum cleaner to remove dust on a regular
basis.
Especially when the leather has a light color, it
should be cleaned regularly since it tends to get
heavily soiled.
Treat the leather twice a year using a leather
lotion since dirt and grease will gradually attack
the leather's protective layer.
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AT A GLANCE REFERENCEMOBILITYCONTROLS DRIVING TIPS COMMUNICATIONS
Remote control malfunctioning or, in
cars with Comfort Access, not
detectedThe engine cannot be started. Have
the remote control checked, if neces-
sary.
Remote control battery is discharged Use the remote control for a longer
journey or, in cars with Comfort
Access, replace the battery.
Belt tensioners and/or airbag system
failedHave the system checked immedi-
ately. Fasten the safety belts anyway.
Power steering failed You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Steering response will be
markedly different. Have the system
checked without delay.
Lights up in red:
Engine malfunction
Stop the car and switch off the
engine. You cannot continue your
journey. Contact your MINI dealer.
Lights up in yellow:
Full engine power no longer available You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Have the engine
checked as soon as possible.
Indicator lamp1 flashes:
Engine malfunction under high load.
High engine load will result in dam-
age to the catalytic converterYou can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Have the vehicle
checked without delay.
Indicator lamp1 comes on:
Engine malfunction with adverse
effect on exhaust emissionsYou can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Have the car checked as
soon as possible.
12Cause What to do
Everything from A to Z
174
Condition Based Service
CBS131
Configuring settings, refer to
Personal Profile18
Connecting vacuum cleaner,
refer to Connecting electrical
appliances87
Consumption, refer to Average
fuel consumption54
Control Display
– settings56
Controls and displays10
Convenient access, refer to
Comfort Access26
Convenient operation
– convertible top22
– windows20
Convenient start, refer to
Starting the engine45
Convertible top30
Coolant129
– checking level129
– filling129
Coolant temperature53
Cooling fluid, refer to
Coolant129
Cooling, maximum81
Copyright2
Cornering light, refer to
Adaptive Light Control75
Cruising range54
Cupholders87
Curb weight, refer to
Weights169
Current fuel consumption54
D
Dashboard instruments, refer
to Displays12
Dashboard lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting76
Dashboard, refer to Cockpit10
Data166
– capacities170
– dimensions167
– engine166
– weights169
Data memory132Date
– setting60
Daytime running lights74
DBC Dynamic Brake Control,
refer to Brake Assist63
Deactivating front passenger
airbags71
Deadlocking, refer to
Locking20
Defect
– door lock22
– fuel filler flap116
Defogging windows80,82
Defrost position, refer to
Defrosting windows80,82
Defrosting windows80,82
Defrosting windows and
removing condensation
– air conditioner80
– automatic climate control82
Defrosting windshield, refer to
Defrosting windows80,82
Differential, breaking in92
Dimensions167
Dipstick, engine oil128
Directional indicators, refer to
Turn signals48
Displacement, refer to Engine
data166
Display lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting76
Displays12
– instrument cluster12
Displays and controls10
Displays, care136
Disposal
– of coolant129
– remote control battery28
– vehicle battery147
Distance remaining to service,
refer to Service
requirements58
Distance warning, refer to Park
Distance Control PDC62
Door key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control
18
Door lock22
Door lock, confirmation
signals21Doors, manual operation22
DOT Quality Grades123
Drinks holders, refer to
Cupholders87
Drive-off assistant, refer to Hill
Assist64
Driving dynamics control, refer
to Sport button64
Driving lamps, refer to Parking
lamps/low beams73
Driving notes92
Driving off on inclines, refer to
Hill Assist64
Driving stability control
systems62
Driving through water93
Driving tips, refer to Driving
notes92
Dry air, refer to Cooling
function82
DTC Dynamic Traction Control
DTC63
Dynamic Brake Control DBC,
refer to Brake Assist63
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC63
Dynamic Traction Control63
E
Electric power windows
– initializing29
Electrical malfunction
– convertible top32
– door lock22
– fuel filler flap116
– liftgate24
Electronic brake-force
distribution63
Electronic Stability Program
ESP, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC63
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AT A GLANCE REFERENCEMOBILITYCONTROLS DRIVING TIPS COMMUNICATIONS
Emergency operation, refer to
Manual operation
– convertible top32
– door lock22
– fuel filler flap116
– liftgate24
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission48
Emergency services, refer to
Roadside Assistance148
Engine
– breaking in92
– data166
– overheated, refer to Coolant
temperature53
– speed166
– starting45
– starting, Comfort Access26
– switching off45
Engine compartment128
Engine coolant, refer to
Coolant129
Engine oil
– adding129
– additives, refer to Approved
engine oils129
– alternative oil types129
– approved engine oils129
– capacity129
– checking level128
– dipstick128
– intervals between changes,
refer to Service
requirements58
– MINI Maintenance
System131
Engine oil level, checking128
Engine output, refer to Engine
data166
Engine starting, refer to
Starting the engine45
ESP Electronic Stability
Program, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC63
Exhaust system, refer to Hot
exhaust system92Exterior mirrors39
– adjusting39
– automatic heating39
– folding in and out39
External audio device85
Eyes
– for tow-starting and towing
away150
– for tying down loads97
F
Failure messages, refer to
Check Control60
Failure of an electrical
consumer147
Fastening safety belts, refer to
Safety belts38
Fault messages, refer to Check
Control60
Filter
– microfilter for air
conditioner80
– microfilter/activated-
charcoal filter for automatic
climate control82
Fine wood, care136
First aid pouch148
Fixture for remote control,
refer to Ignition lock44
Flash when locking/
unlocking21
Flat tire
– run-flat tires125
– Tire Pressure Monitor TPM67
Flat Tire Monitor FTM65
– indicating a flat tire66
– initializing the system65
– snow chains65
– system limits65
Flat tires, refer to Tire
condition124
Floor mats, care136
Fog lamps
– replacing bulb139,141
Folding rear seat backrest94
Folding roof, refer to
Convertible top with
integrated sliding sunroof30Footbrake, refer to Braking
safely93
Footwell lamps77
For your own safety5
Front airbags70
Front fog lamps76
– indicator lamp152
– replacing bulb139
Front seat adjustment36
Frost on windows, refer to
Defrosting windows80,82
FTM, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor65
Fuel117
– gauge53
– high-quality brands117
– quality117
– specifications117
– tank capacity170
Fuel clock, refer to Fuel
gauge53
Fuel consumption display
– average fuel consumption54
Fuel display, refer to Fuel
gauge53
Fuel filler flap116
– releasing in the event of
electrical malfunction116
Fuses147
G
Garage door opener, refer to
Integrated universal remote
control83
Gasoline
– refer to Average fuel
consumption54
Gasoline display, refer to Fuel
gauge53
Gasoline, refer to Required
fuel117
Gear indicator
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic46
Gear shifting
– automatic transmission46
– manual transmission46