Technology for driving comfort and safetyCONTROLS
69
enter the sensors' blind spots before or after a
continuous audible signal is given. Higher, pro-
truding objects, such as wall ledges, may not be
detectable. Therefore, always drive cautiously;
otherwise, there is a risk of personal injury or
property damage. Loud sound sources outside
or inside the car can drown out the PDC signal. <
Driving stability control
systems
Your MINI has a number of systems that help to
maintain the vehicle's st ability even in adverse
driving conditions.
The laws of physics cannot be repealed,
even with driving stability control systems.
An appropriate driving style always remains the
responsibility of the driver. Therefore do not
reduce the additional safety margin by engaging
in hazardous driving thereby running the risk of
an accident. <
Antilock Brake System ABS
ABS prevents locking of the wheels during brak-
ing. Safe steering respon se is maintained even
during full braking. Act ive safety is thus
increased.
Braking safely, refer to page 101.
ABS is operational every time you start the
engine.
Cornering Brake Control CBC
Driving stability and steering characteristics are
further enhanced while braking in turns or dur-
ing a lane change.
Electronic brake-forc e distribution EBV
The system controls the brake pressure in the
rear wheels to ensure stable braking behavior.
Brake Assist
Rapidly depressing the brake causes this system
to automatically develop maximum braking force. Thus, the system helps keep braking dis-
tance to a minimum. At the same time, all the
benefits provided by ABS are exploited.
Do not reduce the pressure on the brake for the
duration of the full braking application.
Dynamic Stability Control DSC
The concept
DSC prevents the driving wheels from losing
traction when you pull away from rest or accel-
erate.
DSC also detects unstable driving conditions
such as when the vehicle'
s rear end fishtails or
the vehicle is sliding on its front wheels. In these
cases, DSC helps the vehicle maintain a safe
course within physical limits by reducing engine
output and through brakin g actions at the indi-
vidual wheels.
Every time that the engine is started, DSC is
ready to operate.
Deactivating DSC
Press the button until the DSC OFF indicator
lamp on the speedometer is on and DSC OFF is
displayed on the tachometer. DSC is deacti-
vated. Stabilizing and propulsion promoting
actions are no longer executed.
When driving with snow chains or to 'rock free'
in snow, it can be helpfu l to switch off DSC for a
brief period.
To increase vehicle stability, activate DSC again
as soon as possible.
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CONTROLSTechnology for driving comfort and safety
70
Activating DSC
Press the button again: the DSC indicator lamps
in the display elements go out.
For better control
The indicator lamp on the tachometer is
flashing:
DSC controls the driving and braking
forces.
The indicator lamp DSC OFF on the
speedometer is on and DSC OFF is dis-
played on the tachometer:
DSC is deactivated.
Dynamic Traction Control DTC
The concept
DTC is a type of DSC that is propulsion optimized
for special road conditions such as uncleared
snowy roads. The syst em ensures maximum
propulsion though with restricted driving stabil-
ity. You therefore need to drive with suitable
caution.
In the following exceptiona l situations, it can be
useful to briefly activate DTC:
> when driving on snow-covered inclines, in
slush, or on uncleared snowy roads.
> when rocking the vehicle free, driving out of
deep snow or on loose surfaces.
> when driving with snow chains.
Activating DTC
Press the button; the indicator lamp DSC OFF on
the speedometer comes on and TRACTION is
displayed on the tachometer.
The Dynamic Stability Control DSC is deacti-
vated; the Dynamic Traction Control DTC is acti-
vated.
For better control
The indicator lamp on the tachometer is
flashing:
DTC controls the driving and braking
forces.
The indicator lamp on the speedometer
is on and TRACTION is displayed on the
tachometer:
DTC is activated.
Deactivating DTC
Press button again, the indicator lamp DSC OFF
on the speedometer and TRACTION on the
tachometer go out.
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CONTROLSTechnology for driving comfort and safety
72
sponding wheel change. This is detected and
reported as a flat tire.
Functional requirement
The system must have been initialized while the
tire inflation pressure was correct; otherwise,
reliable signaling of a fl at tire is not ensured.
Initialize the system afte r every correction of the
tire inflation pressure and after every tire or
wheel change.
System limitations
Sudden serious tire damage caused by
external influences cannot be indicated in
advance. <
A natural, even pressure loss in all four tires can-
not be detected. Therefore, check the tire infla-
tion pressure regularly.
In the following situations, the system could be
delayed or malfunction:
> System has not been initialized.
> Driving on snowy or sl ippery road surface.
> Performance-oriented style of driving: slip in
the drive wheels, high lateral acceleration.
> Snow chains are attached.
When the vehicle is driven with a space-saver
spare tire, page 228, the Flat Tire Monitor can-
not function.
Status display
The current status of the Flat Tire Monitor can be
displayed on the Control Display, e.g. whether or
not the FTM is active.
1. "Vehicle Info"
2. "Vehicle status" 3.
"Flat Tire Monitor"
The status is displayed.
Initializing the system
The initialization process adopts the set inflation
tire pressures as refere nce values for the detec-
tion of a flat tire. Initia lization is started by con-
firming the inflation pressures.
Do not initialize the syst em when driving with
snow chains.
1. "Vehicle Info"
2. "Vehicle status"
3. "Reset"
4. Start the engine, but do not start driving.
5. Select "Reset" to start the initialization.
6. Start to drive.
The initialization is completed during driv-
ing, which can be interrupted at any time.
When driving resumes, the initialization is con-
tinued automatically. <
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MOBILITYWheels and tires
206
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 ow n 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 your MINI recommends the
use of winter tires on snowy roads or if temper-
atures drop below 45 7/+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 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
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 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 ch ains, it can be useful
to briefly deactivate DSC or activate DTC, refer to
page 70.<
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REFERENCEEverything from A to Z
256
Engine malfunction
– indicator lamp13
Engine oil
– additives, refer to Approved
engine oils 209
– alternative oil types 209
– approved engine oils 209
– capacity 209
– checking level 208
– dipstick 208
– intervals between changes, refer to Service
requirements 61
– MINI Maintenance System 211
Engine oil level, checking 208
Engine output, refer to Engine data 238
Engine starti ng, refer to
Starting the engine 48
Entering destination 112
Entering intersection 113
Entertainment sound output on/off 132
Entry map for destination 117
ESP Electronic Stability Program, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC 69
Exhaust system, refer to Hot exhaust system 101
Exterior mirrors 42
– adjusting 42
– automatic heating 42
– folding in and out 42
External audio device 94
External audio device, refer to
AUX-In connection 145
External care 213
External devices
– random play sequence 148
– Software update 153
External temperature display
– change units of measure 60
– in the onboard computer 60Eyes
– for tow-starting and towing
away 233
– for tying down loads 105
F
Failure messages, refer to
Check Control 63
Failure of an electrical
consumer 230
Fastening safety belts, refer to Safety belts 41
Fastest route for navigation 121
Fast forward
– CD player 144
Fault messages, refer to Check Control 63
Filter
– microfilter/activated- charcoal filter for automatic
climate control 89
– microfilter for air conditioner 87
Fine wood, care 216
First aid pouch 231
Fixture for remote control,
refer to Ignition lock 47
Flash when locking/
unlocking 28
Flat load floor 104
Flat tire
– run-flat tires 205
– Tire Pressure Monitor TPM 74
Flat Tire Monitor FTM 71
– indicating a flat tire 73
– initializing the system 72
– snow chains 72
– system limits 72
Flat tires, refer to Tire condition 204
Floor mats, care 215
Floor plate, refer to Flat load floor 104
FM, waveband 135 Fog lamps
– replacing bulb
220,223
Folding rear seat backrest 103
Footbrake, refer to Braking
safely 101
Footwell lamps 84
For your own safety 4
Front airbags 78
Front fog lamps 83
– replacing bulb 220
Front seat adjustment 39
Frost on windows, refer to Defrosting windows 87,89
FTM, refer to Flat Tire Monitor 71
Fuel 193
– gauge 57
– high-quality brands 193
– quality 193
– specifications 193
– tank capacity 244
Fuel c l
ock, refer to Fuel
gauge 57
Fuel consumption display
– average fuel consumption 58
Fuel display, refer to Fuel gauge 57
Fuel filler flap 192
– releasing in the event of electrical malfunction 192
Fuses 230
G
Garage door opener, refer to
Integrated universal remote
control 90
Gasoline
– refer to Average fuel
consumption 58
Gasoline, refer to Required fuel 193
Gasoline display, refer to Fuel gauge 57
Gear indicator
– automatic transmission with Steptronic 50
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REFERENCEEverything from A to Z
262
Side windows, refer to Windows 36
Signal horn, refer to Horn 10
Sitting safely 38
– airbags 38
– safety belts 38
– with head restraint 38
Size, refer to Dimensions 239
Sliding/tilt sunroof
– refer to Glass roof, electric 35
Slot for remote control 47
Smokers' package, refer to Ashtray 96
Snap-in adapter
– inserting/removing 177
– use 166
Snap-in adapter, refer to Center armrest storage
compartment 95
Snow chains 206
Socket, refer to Connecting electrical appliances 97
Socket for On-Board Diagnosis OBD 212
Software update 153
Space-saver spare tire
– changing tires 227
– inflation pressure 195
Spare wheel, refer to Space- saver spare tire 227
Speaking, refer to Voice instructions from navigation
system 125
Special destinations 116
Special oils, refer to Approved engine oils 209
Speed 238
– with winter tires 206
Speed limit 65
– setting 65
Speed limit warning, refer to Speed limit 65
Speedo, refer to Speedometer 12
Speedometer 12
Speed volume 133 Split Rear Barn Doors
31
– opening/closing 31
– opening from outside 31
– unlocking with remote
control 28
Split rear seat backrest, refer to Expanding the cargo
area 103
Sport button 71
Stability contro l, refer to
Driving stability control
systems 69
Start/Stop button 47
– starting the engine 48
– switching off the engine 48
Starting, refer to Starting the
engine 48
Sta rting assistance, refer to
Jump-sta r
ting232
Starting route guidance 121
Starting the engine 48
– Start/Stop button 47
Start-off assistance, refer to
– DSC 69
– Hill Assist 71
State/province, for navigation 112
Station, selecting
– radio 135
Status information on the
Control Display 19
Status of this Owner's Manual at time of printing 4
Steering wheel 43
– adjustment 43
– buttons on steering wheel 11
– lock 47
– shift paddles 51
Steptronic, refer to Automatic
transmission with
Steptronic 49
Storage area
– cargo area 102
Storage compartment, front passenger side 95
Storage compartments 95Storage space
– storage compartments
95
Storing a destination in the address book 114
Storing the vehicle 216
Storing tires 206
Stowage, refer to Storage
compartments 95
Summer tires, refer to Wheels and tires 195
SW, waveband 135
Switches, refer to Cockpit 10
Switching off
– engine 48
Switching off the engine 48
– Start/Stop button 47
Switching on
– audio 132
– CD player 132
– radio 132
Switching radio on/off 132
Switching the cooling function
on and off 89
Symbols 4
– status information 19
T
Tachometer57
Tailgate 31
– Comfort Access 34
Tailgate, refer to Split Rear Barn Doors 28
Tail lamp, refer to Tail lamps 222
– replacing bulb 222
Tail lamps 222
Tank volume, refer to Capacities 244
Target cursor for navigation 118
Tasks 184
Technical data 238
Technical modifications 4
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