CONTROLSTechnology for driving comfort and safety
86
Do not push on the rear spoiler; otherwise, it
may be damaged.
For information on car washing facilities and
care, see page227 and following.
Automatic mode
When starting the engine, a retracted rear
spoiler is in the automatic mode. It is possible
that there will be some noise for a short time
when driving off because of the initialization of
the system.
Automatic extension:
When driving at speeds in excess of approx.
50 mph/80 km/h.
Automatic retraction:
When driving at speeds below 38 mph/60 km/h.
In the automatic mode, the rear spoiler
can not be retracted manually at speeds
greater than 37 mph/60 km/h.<
Manual mode
The manual mode can, for example, be used
when cleaning the rear spoiler while the ignition
is on or the engine is running. LED on switch is
on.
If the rear spoiler stops in an intermediate
position after repeat edly being extended
and retracted, then the system has become
overheated. After a short cooling down time, the
rear spoiler can again be operated.<
Extending rear spoiler
Press the switch toward the rear.
Retracting rear spoiler
If the rear spoiler was manually extended and a
speed of 50 mph/80 km/h not exceeded, then
the rear spoiler can agai n be retracted. Other-
wise, the rear spoiler cannot be retracted unless
the speed is below 37 mph/60 km/h.
> For speeds between 12 mph/20 km/h and
50 mph/80 km/h,
briefly press the switch forward or keep
pressed.
> For speeds less than 12 mph/20 km/h,
press switch forward and keep pressed.
Malfunctions
Indicator lamp goes on briefly when the
ignition is switched on and an acoustic
signal is produced.
A message appears on the Control Display.
Display in the following situations:
> Rear spoiler is extended.
Manually retract rear spoiler or it will auto-
matically retract at a speed of approx.
12 mph/20 km/h.
> Rear spoiler can not be extended from the
rear spoiler compartment.
Check if the rear spoiler is free of snow or ice,
for example. Free rear spoiler or clear of ice.
Warning lamp goes on and an acoustic
signal sounds several times.
A message appears on the Control
Display.
Display in the following situation:
If the rear spoiler ca n not be completely
extended, do not exceed a speed of 50 mph or
80 km/h.
Have the system checked.
When there is a malfunction at speeds greater
than 30 mph/50 km/h, the Dynamic Stability
Control DSC switches on.
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MOBILITYWheels and tires
220
Special characteristics of winter tires
The manufacturer of your MINI recommends the
use of winter tires on snowy roads or if temper-
atures drop below 457/ +7 6. 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
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 84.<
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MOBILITYEngine compartment
222
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 operat-
ing 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.
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Engine compartmentMOBILITY
223
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.
The oil quantity corresponding to the difference
between the two marks on the dipstick is
1 US quart/1 liter. Do not fill beyond the upper mark on the
dipstick. Excess oil will damage the
engine. <
Adding engine oil
Do not add the maximum quantity of
1 US quart/1 liter of engine oil until the oil level
has dropped to just abov e the lower mark on the
dipstick, page 222.
Add oil within the next 30 miles/50 km;
otherwise, the engine could be
damaged. <
If too much motor oi l is added, immedi-
ately have the vehicle checked; otherwise,
damage to the engine may result.<
Keep oils, grease, etc. out of the reach of
children and comply with the warnings on
the containers. Otherwise, health hazards may
result. <
Oil types for refilling
Notes
Do not use oil additives as this could result
in engine damage. <
When selecting a motor oil, ensure that it
belongs to one of the SAE viscosity classes
0W-40, 0W-30, 5W-40 and 5W-30; otherwise,
malfunctions or damage to the engine may
result. <
The engine oil quality is critical for the life of the
engine.
Some types of oil may not be available in every
country.
Approved oil types
Additional information on approved types of oil
can be found at a MINI dealer.
Alternative oil types
If the approved engine oils are not available,
up to 1 US quart/1 liter of another oil with the
following specifications may be used:
Oil change
Only MINI dealers are to perform oil changes.
Gasoline engines
BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30
BMW Longlife-01
BMW Longlife-01 FE
Gasoline engines
API SM or higher specifications
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CareMOBILITY
227
Care
Vehicle equipment
In this chapter, all production, country, and
optional equipment that is offered in the model
range is described. Equipment is also described
that is not available because of, for example,
selected options or count ry version. This also
applies to safety related functions and systems.
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.
Your MINI dealer 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
alcohol or solvents as these may cause
damage. <
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
system is suitable for your MINI. Observe the
following points:
> Vehicle dimensions, page 251.
> If necessary: fold in the outside mirrors,
page 54.
> 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.
> MINI Coupe, MINI Roadster: retract spoiler.
> Deactivate the rain sensor to prevent
unintentional wiping.
> Remove additional attachments, e.g. spoil-
ers or telephone antennas, if there is a
possibility that they could be damaged.
> Insert the remote control into the ignition
lock.
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268
REFERENCEEverything from A to Z
Everything from A to Z
Index
A
ABS Antilock Brake System83
Accessories, see Vehicle equipment 4
Acknowledgment signals for
locking/unlocking vehicle 30
Activated-charcoa l filter for
automatic climate
control 105
Adaptive Light Control 97
Adding engine oil 223
Additives
– coolant 224
– engine oil 223
Address, entering 132
Address for navigation
– entering 126,132
Adjusting temperature inside the car, refer to Air
conditioner 102
Adjusting temperature inside the car, refer to Automatic
climate control 103
Adjusting the tone during audio operation, refer to
Tone control 147
Airbags 93
– sitting safely 50
– warning lamp 94
Air conditioner 101
Air conditioning mode
– air conditioner 102
– automatic climate control 103
– ventilation 106
Air distribution
– automatic 104
– individual 103
– manual 103 Air flow rate
102,104
– air conditioning system 102
– automatic climate
control 104
– heating, ventilation 102
Airing, refer to Ventilation106
Air outlets, refer to Air vents 101
Air pressure, checking, refer to
Tire inflation pressure 209
Air recirculation, refer to Recirculated-air
mode 102,104
Air supply
– air conditioner 102
– automatic climate control 103
– ventilation 106
Air vents 101
AKI, refer to Fuel grade 207
Alarm system 34
All-season tires, refer to Winter
tire
s220
Always Open Timer 72
AM, wa
veband 149
Ambient air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode 102,104
Ambient lighting 100
Antenna, care 227
Antifreeze
– coolant 224
– washer fluid 67
Antilock Brake System ABS 83
Anti-theft alarm system, refer
to Alarm system 34
Anti-theft system 29
Approved axle loads, refer to
Weights 257 Approved engine oils
223
Approved gross vehicle weight, refer to Weights257
Armrest, refer to Center armrest 108
Arrival time
– computer 73
– route guidance 135
Ashtray 109
Assistant systems, refer to
– Dynamic Stability Control DSC 83
Audio 146
– controls 146
– switching on/off 146
– tone control 147
– volume 147
Audio device, external 108
Automatic
– air distribution 104
– air flow rate 104
– cruise control 68
– headlamp control 96
Automatic climate control 101
– automatic air distribution 104
Automatic rear spoiler 85
Automatic transmission with Steptronic 62
– Interlock 63
– overriding selector lever lock 64
– Shiftlock 63
– sport program 64
AUTO program for automatic
climate control 104
Auxiliary phone 182
AUX-In, refer to External audio
device 108
AUX-In connection 159
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REFERENCEEverything from A to Z
272
Emergency services, refer to Roadside Assistance 243
Emergency unlocking 34
Ending a call 174,186
Engine
– breaking in 114
– data 250
– overheated, refer to Coolant temperature 224
– speed 250
– starting, Comfort Access 36
Engine compartment 221
Engine coolant, refer to
Coolant 224
Engine malfunction
– indicator lamp 13
Engine oil
– additives, refer to Approved engine oils 223
– alternative oil types 223
– approved engine oils 223
– capacity 223
– checking level 222
– dipstick 222
– intervals between changes,
refer to Service
requirements 75
– MINI Maintenance
System 225
Engine oil level, checking 222
Engine output, refer to Engine data 250
Engine starti ng, refer to
Starting the engine 61
Entering destination 126
Entering intersection 127
Entertainment sound output on/off 146
Entry map for destination 131
ESP Electronic Stability Program, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC 83
Exhaust system, refer to Hot exhaust system 115 Exterior mirrors
54
– adjusting 54
– automatic heating 54
– folding in and out 54
External audio device 108
External audio de vice, refer to
AUX-In connection 159
External care 227
External devices
– random play sequence 162
– software update 166
External temperature display
– change units of measure 74
– in the onboard computer 74
Eyes
– for tow-starting and towing
away 245
– for tying down loads 119
F
Failure messages, refer to
Check Control 77
Failure of an electrical consumer 242
Fastening safety belts, refer to Safety belts 53
Fastest route for
navigation 135
Fast forward
– CD player 158
Fault messages, refer to Check Control 77
Filter
– microfilter/activated- charcoal filter for automatic
climate control 105
– microfilter for air conditioner 103
Fine wood, care 230
First aid pouch 243
Fixture for remote control,
refer to Ignition lock 60
Flash when locking/ unlocking 30 Flat tire
– run-flat tires
218
– Tire Pressure Monitor TPM 89
Flat Tire Monitor FTM 87
– indicating a flat tire 88
– initializing the system 87
– snow chains 87
– system limits 87
Flat tires, refer to Tire condition 217
Floor mats, care 230
FM, waveband 149
Fog lamps
– replacing bulb 234,236
Folding roof, refer to Convertible top with
integrated sliding sunroof 39
Footbrake, refer to Braking safely 115
Footwell lamps 99
For your own safety 5
Front airbags 93
Front fog lamps 98,99
– replacing bulb 234
Front seat adjustment 51
Frost on windows, refer to Defrosting
windows 103,105
FTM, refer to Flat Tire Monitor 87
Fuel 207
– gauge 70
– high-quality brands 207
– quality 207
– specifications 207
– tank
capaci
ty 259
Fuel clock, refer to Fuel gauge 70
Fuel consumption display
– average fuel consumption 72
Fuel display, refer to Fuel gauge 70
Fuel filler flap 206
– releasing in the event of electrical malfunction 206
Fuses 242
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REFERENCEEverything from A to Z
274
Instrument panel, refer to Displays 12
Integrated key 28
Interactive map 132
Interesting destination for navigation 130
Interior lamps 99
– remote control 31
Interior rearview mirror 55
– automatic dimming
feature 55
Interlock 63
Intermittent mode of the
wipers 66
Internal care 229
Internet page 4
J
Jacking points 241
Jets, refer to Window washer nozzles 67
Joystick, refer to Onboard computer 17
Jumpering, refer to Jump-
starting 243
Jump-starting 243
K
Key, refer to Keys/remote
controls 28
Keyless-Go, refer to Comfort
Access 36
Keyless opening and closing, refer to Comfort Access 36
Key Memory, refer to Personal Profile 28
Keypad dialing 175,187
Kickdown 63
– automatic transmission with Steptronic 63
Knock control 207
L
Lamps, refer to Parking lamps/
Low beams 96
Lamps and bulbs, replacing bulbs 232
Lashing eyes, refe r to Securing
cargo 119
Last destinations 129
LATCH child restraint fixing
system 57
Leather care 230
LEDs light-emitting diodes 233
Length, refer to Dimensions 251
License plate lamp
– bulb replacement 236
Light alloy wheels, care 229
Light-emitting diodes
LEDs 233
Lighter 109
– socket 110
Lighting
– lamps and bulbs 232
– of the instruments 99
– of vehicle, refer to Lamps 96
Light switch 96
Limit, refer to Speed limit 79
Load 118
Load securing equipment,
refer to Securing cargo 119
Lock buttons of doors, refer to Locking 32
Locking
– adjusting confirmation signal 30
– from inside 32
– from outside 30
– without remote control, refer
to Comfort Access 36
Locking and unlocking doors
– confirmation signals 30
– from inside 32
– from outside 30 Longlife oils
– approved motor oils
223
Low beams 96
– automatic 96
– replacing bulb 233
Lower back support, refer to Lumbar support 51
Luggage compartment
– emergency operation, refer to Manual unlocking 33
– emergency unlocking 34
– increasing the capacity 117
– opening from the inside 33
Luggage compartment, refer to Cargo area 33
Luggage compartment lid,
refer to Tailgate 33
Lumbar support 51
M
M+S tires, refer to Winter
tires 220
Main menu 18
Maintenance, refer to Service
and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models and
Service Guide Booklet for
Canadian models
Maintenance system 225
Malfunction
– convertible top 41,48
– tailgate 33
Malfunction warnings, refer to Check Control 77
Manual air distribution 103
Manual convertible top 44
Manually operated convertible top 44
Manual mode
– automatic transmission with Steptronic 64
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