
 49
AT A GLANCE REFERENCE MOBILITYCONTROLS DRIVING TIPS COMMUNICATIONS
1.Switch on the ignition, refer to page44.
2.Briefly press the button in the turn signal 
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3.Press and hold the button until the display 
changes.
4.Briefly press the button repeatedly until the 
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
5.Press and hold the button until the display 
changes.
6.Briefly press the button repeatedly until the 
display shows the illustrated symbol, arrow.
7.Press and hold the button until the display 
changes.8.Briefly press the button to select:
>
Brief indication of a turn.
>
Triple turn signal.
9.Press and hold the button until the display 
changes. The setting is stored.
Wiper system
1Switching on wipers
2Switching off wipers or brief wipe
3Activating/deactivating intermittent mode 
or rain sensor
*
4Cleaning windshield and headlamps*
Switching on wipers
Press the lever upward, arrow1.
The lever automatically returns to its initial posi-
tion when released.
Normal wiper speed
Press once.
The system switches to intermittent operation 
when the vehicle is stationary.
Fast wiper speed
Press twice or press beyond the resistance point.
The system switches to normal speed when the 
vehicle is stationary.
Intermittent wipe or rain sensor*
If the car is not equipped with a rain sensor, the 
intermittent-wipe time is preset. 

Driving
50
If the car is equipped with a rain sensor, the time 
between wipes is controlled automatically and 
depends on the intensity of the rainfall. The rain 
sensor is mounted on the windshield, directly in 
front of the interior rearview mirror.
Activating intermittent wipe or rain 
sensor
Press button, arrow3.
This symbol is displayed in the tacho-
meter.
Deactivate the rain sensor before entering 
an automatic car wash. Failure to do so 
could result in damage caused by undesired 
wiper activation.<
Adjusting the sensitivity of the rain 
sensor
1.Switch on the ignition, refer to page44.
2.Briefly press the button in the turn signal 
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.
3.Press and hold the button until the display 
changes.
4.Briefly press the button repeatedly until the 
symbol and "SET" are displayed.5.Press and hold the button until the display 
changes.
6.Press the button to select the desired sensi-
tivity.
7.Wait, or press and hold the button until the 
display changes.
The settings are stored.
Deactivating intermittent wipe or rain 
sensor
Press the button again, arrow3.
Brief wipe
Press the lever downward once, arrow2.
Cleaning windshield and headlamps*
Pull the lever, arrow 4.
Washer fluid is sprayed onto the windshield and 
the wipers are operated briefly.
When the vehicle lighting system is switched on, 
the headlamps are cleaned at regular and 
appropriate intervals.
In cars equipped with an alarm system, the 
headlamps cannot be cleaned when the hood is 
open.
Do not use the washers when the washer 
fluid reservoir is empty; otherwise, you will 
damage the washer pump. 
Only use the washers if the hood has been com-
pletely closed; otherwise, the headlamp washer 
system
* may be damaged. Do not use the 
washers if there is any danger that the fluid will 
freeze on the windshield. If you do, your vision 
could be obscured. For this reason, use anti-
freeze.< 

 51
AT A GLANCE REFERENCE MOBILITYCONTROLS DRIVING TIPS COMMUNICATIONS
Window washer nozzles
The window washer nozzles are heated auto-
matically
* while the engine is running or the 
ignition is switched on.
MINI: rear window wiper
0Rear wipers parked
1To switch on intermittent wipe :
Turn the cap to level1.
Operation is continuous in reverse gear.
The rear wiper does not move if the cap is in 
interval stage1 before the ignition is switched 
on.
Cleaning the rear window
2To clean the rear window during intermit-
tent wipe  :
Turn the cap further to level2 and hold it 
there.
3To clean the rear window when wipers are 
parked :
Turn the cap to level3 and hold it there.
Do not use the washers when the washer 
fluid reservoir is empty; otherwise, you will 
damage the washer pump.<
Washer fluid
Washer fluid is flammable. Keep it away 
from ignition sources, only store it in the 
closed, original container, and keep out of reach 
of children; otherwise, there is a danger of 
injury. Comply with the instructions on the con-
tainer.<
Washer fluid reservoir
Only refill washer fluid that contains anti-
freeze when the engine is cool, to avoid 
contact with hot engine parts. Otherwise, fluid 
spills constitute a fire hazard and a risk to per-
sonal safety.<
Fill with water and, if required, with a washer 
antifreeze, according to manufacturer's recom-
mendations.
Mix the water and antifreeze before filling 
the washer fluid reservoir to make sure 
the correct concentration is maintained.<
Capacity
Approx. 2.6 US quarts/2.5 liters.
With headlamp washer system: 
Approx. 4.8 US quarts/4.5 liters.
Cruise control*
The concept
Cruise control is available at vehicle speeds of at 
least approx. 20 mph or 30 km/h. The car then 
stores and maintains the speed that you specify 
using the button on the steering wheel.
Do not use cruise control when driving at 
constant speed is prevented by adverse 
conditions, e.g. winding roads, dense traffic or 
poor road conditions due to, e.g., snow, rain, ice 
or loose surfaces. Otherwise, you could lose con-
trol of the vehicle and cause an accident as a 
result.< 

 133
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. 

Giving and receiving assistance
150
Tow-starting, towing 
away
Observe the applicable laws and regula-
tions for tow-starting and towing vehi-
cles.<
Do not transport any passengers other 
than the driver in a vehicle that is being 
towed.<
Using a tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting must always be carried 
in the car. It can be screwed in at the front or 
rear of the MINI.
It is stored in the onboard vehicle tool kit in the 
cargo area underneath the cover on the right-
hand side, page137.
Use only the tow fitting provided with the 
vehicle and screw it all the way in. Use the 
tow fitting for towing on paved roads only. Avoid 
lateral loading of the tow fitting, e.g. do not lift 
the vehicle by the tow fitting. Otherwise, the tow 
fitting and the vehicle could be damaged.<
Access to screw thread
Push out the cover of the towing eye out of the 
recess in the bumper.
FrontRear
Being towed
Make sure that the ignition is switched on, 
refer to page44; otherwise, the low 
beams, tail lamps, turn signals, and windshield 
wipers may be unavailable. Do not tow the vehi-
cle with just the rear axle raised, as this would 
allow the steering to turn. <
There is no power assist while the engine is off. 
Thus, braking and steering will require increased 
effort.
Switch on the hazard warning flashers, depend-
ing on local regulations.
Manual transmission
Gearshift lever in neutral position.
Automatic transmission
Tow vehicles with automatic transmission 
only with a tow truck or with the front 
wheels lifted; otherwise, the transmission can be 
damaged.<
Towing with a tow bar
The towing vehicle must not be lighter 
than the towed vehicle; otherwise, it may 
be impossible to maintain control.<
The tow fittings used should be on the same side 
on both vehicles. Should it prove impossible to 
avoid mounting the tow bar at an angle, please 
observe the following:
>Clearance and maneuvering capability will 
be sharply limited during cornering.
>The tow bar will generate lateral forces if it is 
attached offset. 

Everything from A to Z
176
Gearshift lever
– automatic transmission with 
Steptronic46
– manual transmission46
General driving notes92
Glass sunroof, electric28
– Convenient operation20,22
– opening, closing28
– remote control20
– tilting28
Glove compartment85
Grills, refer to Air vents78
Gross vehicle weight, refer to 
Weights169
H
Halogen lamps
– replacing bulb138
Handbrake, refer to Parking 
brake45
Hands-free system14,110
Hazard warning flashers14
Head airbags70
Head Light, refer to Adaptive 
Light Control75
Head restraints37
– sitting safely35
Headlamp control, 
automatic73
Headlamp flasher48
– indicator lamp11,152
Headlamps
– replacing bulb138
Headlamps, care134
Headlight glass lens138
Heated
– mirrors39
– rear window79,82
– seats38
Heating78
– mirrors39
– rear window79,82
– seats38
Heavy loads, refer to Stowing 
cargo96
Height adjustment
– seats36
– steering wheel40Height, refer to 
Dimensions167
High beams75
– headlamp flasher75
– indicator lamp152
– replacing bulb138
High water, refer to Driving 
through water93
Hill Assist64
Hills93
Holders for cups87
Homepage4
Hood127
Horn10
Hot exhaust system92
Hydroplaning93I
Ignition44
– switched off44
– switched on44
Ignition key position 1, refer to 
Radio readiness44
Ignition key position 2, refer to 
Ignition on44
Ignition key, refer to 
Integrated key/remote 
control18
Ignition lock44
Imprint2
Incoming call108
Indicator and warning 
lamps13,152
– Tire Pressure Monitor TPM68
Indicator lighting, refer to 
Instrument lighting76
Individual air distribution80
Individual settings, refer to 
Personal Profile18
Inflation pressure monitoring, 
refer to Tire Pressure Monitor 
TPM67
Initializing
– Flat Tire Monitor FTM65
– glass sunroof, electric29
Instrument cluster, refer to 
Displays12
Instrument lighting76Instrument panel, refer to 
Cockpit10
Instrument panel, refer to 
Displays12
Integrated key18
Integrated universal remote 
control83
Interior lamps77
– remote control21
Interior rearview mirror40
– automatic dimming 
feature40
Interlock46
Intermittent mode of the 
wipers49
Internet page4
J
Jacking points146
Jets, refer to Window washer 
nozzles51
Jumpering, refer to Jump-
starting148
Jump-starting148
K
Key Memory, refer to Personal 
Profile18
Key, refer to Keys/remote 
controls18
Keyless opening and closing, 
refer to Comfort Access26
Keyless-Go, refer to Comfort 
Access26
Keypad dialing108
Kickdown47
– automatic transmission with 
Steptronic47
Knock control117
L
Lamps and bulbs, replacing 
bulbs137
Lamps, refer to Parking lamps/
Low beams73 

Everything from A to Z
182
Windshield wipers, refer to 
Wiper system49
Winter tires126
– storage126
Wiper blade replacement137
Wiper system49
Work in the engine 
compartment127
Wrench/screwdriver, refer to 
On-board vehicle tool 
kit137
X
Xenon lamps
– replacing bulb138