53
AT A GLANCE REFERENCE MOBILITYCONTROLS DRIVING TIPS COMMUNICATIONS
Controls overview
Tachometer
Never operate the engine with the needle in the
red overspeed zone of the gauge. In this range,
the fuel supply is interrupted to protect the
engine.
Displays in tachometer
1Current vehicle speed
2Odometer, trip odometer, outside tempera-
ture display
3Resetting the trip odometer
Outside temperature warning
When the displayed temperature sinks to
approx. +377/+36, a signal sounds and a
warning lamp lights up. There is an increased
risk of black ice.
Black ice can also form at temperatures
above +377/+36. Therefore, drive
carefully, e.g. on bridges and sections of road in
the shade; otherwise, there is an increased acci-
dent risk.<
Odometer and trip odometer
Resetting the trip odometer
With the ignition switched on, press knob 3 in
the tachometer.
Units of measure
Select the respective units of measure, miles or
km for the odometer as well as 7 or 6 for the
outside temperature, page57.
Coolant temperature
A warning lamp will come on if the coolant, and
therefore the engine, becomes too hot.
Check coolant level, refer to page129.
Fuel gauge
Fuel tank capacity
Approx. 13.2 US gallons/50 liters.
You can find information on refueling on
page117.
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.
The arrow next to the gas pump symbol of the
fuel gauge points toward the side of the vehicle
with the fuel filler flap.
Refueling
116
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 miss-
ing.<
Manually releasing the fuel filler flap
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can
manually release the fuel filler flap:
1.Remove the cover from the left-hand side-
wall of the cargo area.
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.
117
AT A GLANCE REFERENCEMOBILITYCONTROLS DRIVING TIPS COMMUNICATIONS
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 dam-
aged.<
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 cosolvent, 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.<
Wheels and tires
126
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. This
label is available at your tire dealer or MINI cen-
ter.
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 page64.<
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.
Technical data
170
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 2,701/1,225 2,811/1,275 2,811/1,275
>Automatic trans-
mission lbs/kg 2,778/1,260 2,855/1,295 –
Approved gross weight
>Manual transmission lbs/kg 3,560/1,615 3,671/1,665 3,693/1,675
>Automatic trans-
mission lbs/kg 3,638/1,650 3,737/1,695 –
Approved front axle load
>Manual transmission
>Automatic trans-
mission 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 area 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: page117
including reserve of 2.1/– approx. 8
Window washer system incl.
headlamp washer system –/4.8 approx. 4.5 For more details: page51
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
175
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