2012 MINI Coupe fuel

RefuelingMOBILITY
141
2.Pull on the green knob with the fuel pump
symbol. The fuel filler flap is released.
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. <
Do not overfill the fuel tank; otherwise,
overflowing fuel can cause damage to the
environment and the vehicle.<
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
recovery 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 gal/50 liters, including the
reserve capacity of 2.1 US gal/8 liters.
Fuel specifications
Gasoline
For optimum fuel efficiency, the gasoline should
be free of sulfur or as low in sulfur as possible.
Fuels that are labeled at the pump as containing
metal may not be used.
Do not fill the tank with leaded gasoline or
gasoline that contai ns metal additives,
such as manganese or iron; otherwise, long term
damage to the catalytic converter or other com-
ponents may result. <
Fuels with a maximum ethanol content of up to
10 %, that is, E10, can be used.
The ethanol should meet the following quality
standards:
US: ASTM 4806-xx
CAN: CGSB-3.511-xx
xx: Always observe currently valid standards.
Do not fill the tank with E85, i.e. fuel
containing 85 % ethanol, nor with Flex-
Fuel. Otherwise, the engine and fuel supply
system will be damaged. <
The engine is knocking regulated. Therefore,
different grades of gasoline can be used for
refueling.
Recommended gasoline grades
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends:
> AKI 91.
> John Cooper Works AKI 93.
Minimum grade
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends
AKI 89.
Do not use any gasoline below the speci-
fied minimum fuel grade. Otherwise, the
engine could be damaged. <
If you use gasoline with this minimum AKI rating,
the engine may produce knocking sounds when
starting at high external temperatures. This has
no effect on the engine life.
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MOBILITYRefueling
142
The use of poor quality fuels may result in
harmful engine deposits or damage. Addi-
tionally, problems rela ting to driveability,
starting and stalling, es pecially under certain
environmental conditions such as high ambient
temperatures and high altitudes, may occur.
If driveability problems are encountered, we
recommend switching to a high quality gasoline
brand and a higher octane grade - AKI number -
for a few tankfuls. To avoid harmful engine
deposits, it is highly recommended to purchase
gasoline from BP or Top Tier retailers.
Failure to comply with these recommendations
may result in a need for unscheduled mainte-
nance. <
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MOBILITYWheels and tires
154
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
accidents. <
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
dealer.
Storage
Always store wheels and tires in a cool, dry place
with as little exposure to light as possible.
Always protect tires agains t all contact with oil,
grease and fuels.
Do not exceed the maximum tire inflation
pressure 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.
Contact your MINI deal er 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 ch ains, it can be useful
to briefly deactivate DSC or activate DTC, refer to
page 77.<
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MOBILITYEngine compartment
156
Hood
Releasing
Pull the lever.Do not clean the windshield and head-
lamps if the hood is unlocked as this may
damage the headlamp washer system. <
Opening
To avoid damage, make sure that the
wiper arms are against the windshield
before you open the hood. <
Press the release handle and open the hood.
Closing
Close the hood from a height of approx. 16 in/
40 cm with momentum. It must be clearly heard
to engage.
If you notice any signs while driving your
vehicle that the hood is not completely
closed, stop at once and close it securely.
Make sure that the closing path of the hood is
clear; otherwise, injuries may result. <
Engine oil
Engine oil consumption depends on driving style
and operating conditions, e.g., with a very
sporty driving style, the engine oil consumption
is significantly increased.
Therefore, check the engine oil level regularly
after each refueling.
Checking engine oil level
1. With the vehicle's engine at normal opera-
ting temperature, i.e. after uninterrupted
driving for at least 6 miles/10 km, park the
vehicle on a level surface.
2. Switch off the engine.
3. Pull the dipstick out after approx. 5 minutes
and wipe it off with a lint-free cloth, paper
towel or similar material.
4. Carefully push the dipstick all the way into
the guide tube and pull it out again.
The oil level should be between the two
marks on the dipstick.
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MOBILITYMaintenance
160
Socket for On-Board
Diagnosis OBD
The primary components that make up the
emissions can be checked by a device via the
OBD socket.
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 cont inuously. 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 cap is not properly tightened,
the OBD system may conclude that fuel
vapors are escaping, causing an indica-
tor to light up. If the fuel cap is then tightened,
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
suitable devices, in pa rticular at your MINI
dealer. 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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CareMOBILITY
163
Use special convertible top cleaning agents if
attempting to remove heavy stains.
Always read and foll ow the manufacturer's
instructions.
Use an impregnating agent to treat the conver-
tible top once a year.
MINI Coupe, MINI Roadster: rear spoiler
compartment
So that the operation of the rear spoiler is not
compromised, e.g., by leaves, snow or ice, clean
the rear spoiler compartment at regular inter-
vals.
Paintwork, care
Regular care helps your vehicle retain its value
and protects the paint from the long-term
effects of aggre ssive substances.
Environmental influences in areas with
increased air pollution or natural contaminants,
such as tree sap or pollen, can affect the vehicle
paintwork. It is therefor e important to adjust the
frequency and extent of vehicle care corre-
spondingly.
Immediately remove any pa rticularly aggressive
substances, such as fuel that has overflowed, oil,
grease, brake fluid, or bi rd droppings; otherwise,
paint damage can be caused.
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 pr ofessionally 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 spra ys 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 140 7/60 6 as they may
cause damage. <
External sensors
Keep the outside sensors on the vehicle
such as the Park Di stance Control clean
and ice-free to ensure that they function
properly. <
Internal care
Upholstery/fabrics
Regularly use a vacuum cleaner to remove
surface dirt.
In case of serious spots such as liquid stains, use
a soft sponge or lint-free microfiber cloth and
suitable interior cleane rs. 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. <
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MOBILITYCare
164
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 th e 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 remo ve dust on a regular
basis.
Especially when the leather has a light color, it
should be cleaned regularl y 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.
Carpets/floor mats
Keep floor mats, carpet, and other objects
out of the movement range of the pedals;
otherwise, they may inhibit the function of the
pedals during driving.
Do not place additional floor mats onto an
existing one or onto other objects.
Only use floor mats that have been approved for
the vehicle and can be appropriately fastened.
Make sure that the fl oor mats are securely
fastened again after they have been removed,
e.g. for cleaning. <
Floor mats can be removed to be cleaned.
If the carpets are very dirty, clean with a micro-
fiber cloth and water or an interior cleaner.
When doing so, rub forw ard and back in the
driving direction; othe rwise, the carpet may
become matted.
Interior plastic parts
These include:
> Plastic surfaces
> Lamp glass
> Display panes
> Mat parts Only clean with water and, if necessary, solvent-
free plastic cleaners.
Do not use solvents such as alcohol,
lacquer thinner, cold cleaners, fuel, or
similar, as these will damage the surfaces. <
Decorative strips
Only clean decorative strips and fine wood parts
with damp cloths. Wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Safety belts
Dirty belt straps impede the reeling action and
thus have a negative impact on safety.
Do not clean chemically, as this may
destroy the webbing. <
Displays
To clean displays, such as the radio or display
elements, use an anti-static microfiber cloth.
Avoid pressing too hard when cleaning
the display as this can cause damage. <
Do not use chemical or abrasive house-
hold cleaning agents. Keep fluids of any
kind away from the device. Surfaces or electrical
components may otherwise become corroded
or damaged. <
CD/DVD drives
Do not use cleaning CDs as this could
damage parts of the drive. <
Vehicle storage
If you park your vehicle longer than three
months, ask your MINI dealer to advise you.
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MOBILITYIndicator and warning lamps
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Lights up briefly:
Approx. 2.1 US gal/8 liters of fuel are
still in the tank
Remains on:
Cruising range is no more than
30 miles/50 km, page65
Engine refuses to start Depress th e brake or clutch in order to
start the engine, page 55.
Ignition switched on and driver's door
open Switch off the ignition, page
55, or
close the driver's door.
Lamps still on
Roadside parking lamps on
Door open
Hood open
Tailgate open
Cargo area cover in the MINI
Convertible Convertible top cannot be activated.
Bring cargo area cover in required
position, re
fer to page 109.
Lights up in red:
Convertible top not locked Convertible top not locked. First
completely open or close the
convertible top, and then continue
the trip, page 35 and 42.
12Cause What to do
Online Edition for Part no. 01 40 2 914 786 - \251 07/12 BMW AG