check oil MINI Convertible 2010 Owner's Manual

Opening and closing
30
After switching off the ignition
When the ignition is switched off, the windows
can still be operated for approx. 1 minute as
long as no door is opened.
Take the key with you when you leave the
car; otherwise, children could operate the
electric windows and possibly injure them-
selves.<
MINI: pinch protection system
This function does not apply to the MINI Con-
vertible.
If the closing force exceeds a specific value as a
window closes, the closing action is interrupted
and the window reopens slightly.
Even though there is the pinch protection
system, always ensure that the window's
travel path is clear; otherwise, the safety system
might fail to detect certain kinds of obstructions,
such as thin objects, and the window would con-
tinue closing.
Do not install any accessories that might inter-
fere with window movement. Otherwise, the
pinch protection system could be impaired.<
Closing without pinch protection
If there is an external danger, or if ice on the win-
dows, etc., prevents you from closing the win-
dows normally, the window can be closed man-
ually.
1.Press the switch upward and hold it there.
Pinch protection is limited and the window
reopens slightly if the closing force exceeds
a certain value.
2.Press the switch upward again within
approx. 4 seconds and hold it there. The
window closes without pinch protection.
Convertible top with
integrated sliding
sunroof
To conserve battery power, if possible
operate the convertible top only while the
engine is running.Prior to closing the convertible top, check for
and remove all debris from the windshield
frame; otherwise, the closing of the top may be
hampered.<
Opening and closing the sliding sunroof
To open:
Press the switch backward until the desired posi-
tion or the end position is reached.
To close:
Press the switch forward.
The sliding sunroof can be operated up to a road
speed of 74 mp/120 km/h.
Power convertible top
The fully automatic convertible top provides
protection from the weather, combined with
simple and easy operation.
So that you can get the most enjoyment out of
your MINI Convertible, here are some helpful
tips:
>It is recommended that you close the con-
vertible top whenever the vehicle is parked.
The closed convertible top not only protects
the vehicle interior from damage due to
unforeseen bad weather, but also provides a
certain degree of protection against theft.
Always keep your valuables inside the
locked luggage compartment, even if the
convertible top is closed.
>Do not mount any roof rack systems on the
convertible top.
>When opening the wet convertible top, e.g.,
after driving in the rain, water drops may
enter the luggage compartment. In order to
avoid water stains or soiling, remove all
objects from the luggage compartment, if
necessary.

Controls overview
60
Possible displays
1Button for selecting information
2Engine oil
3Front brakes
4Rear brakes
5Vehicle check6Roadworthiness test
7Brake fluid
8Exit display57
9Next setting or item of information57
More information on the MINI Maintenance Sys-
tem can be found on page119.
Clock
Setting the time
To set the 12h/24h mode, refer to Formats and
units of measure on page57.
1.Briefly press the button in the turn indicator
lever repeatedly until "SET/INFO" is dis-
played.2.Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
3.Briefly press the button repeatedly until the
symbol and "SET" are displayed.
4.Press and hold the button until the display
changes.
5.Press the button to set the hours.

REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
115
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. Spe-
cialist tire dealers and your MINI dealer can sup-
ply these labels.
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 page65.<

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117
Important parts of the engine compartment
1Battery, under the cover137
2Engine oil dipstick117
3Engine oil filler neck1184Coolant expansion tank118
5Reservoir for washer fluid for the headlamp
and window washer system51
6Engine compartment fuse box135
Engine oil
The engine oil consumption is dependent on
driving style and driving conditions.
Check the engine oil level regularly, e.g. when
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.
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
1USquart/1liter.
Do not fill beyond the upper mark on the
dipstick. Excess oil will damage the
engine.<

Under the hood
118
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 above the lower mark on the
dipstick, page117.
Add oil within the next 30 miles/50 km;
otherwise, the engine could be dam-
aged.<
Keep oils, greases, etc. out of the reach of
children and comply with the warnings on
the containers. Otherwise, health hazards may
result.<
Oil change
Have the oil changed only by a MINI dealer or a
workshop that has specially trained personnel
working in accordance with the specifications of
the MINI manufacturer.
Oil types
Do not use oil additives as this could result
in engine damage.<
Approved engine oils
Your dealer can advise you on which engine oils
have been approved by the manufacturer of
your MINI.
The engine oil quality is critical for the life of the
engine.
Only use approved High Performance oil.
The approved oils are SAE 0W-40, 0W-30,
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
Alternative oil types
If the approved engine oils are not available, up
to 1 US quart/1 liter of another oil with the fol-
lowing specification may be used:
API SM or higher
Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling system
when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant
can cause burns.<
Coolant consists of half water and half additive.
Not all commercially available additives are suit-
able for your MINI. Your MINI dealer knows
which additives are suitable and will be glad to
advise you.
Only use suitable additives; otherwise,
engine damage may result. Because addi-
tives are harmful to your health, it is important
to follow the instructions on the containers.<
Comply with the appropriate environmen-
tal protection regulations when disposing
of coolant additives.<
Checking coolant level
1.Do not open the hood until the engine has
cooled down.
2.Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little
counterclockwise to allow any accumulated
pressure to escape, then continue turning to
open.
3.The coolant level is correct if it is between
the Min and Max markings.
4.If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant up to
the specified level; do not overfill.
5.Turn the cap until there is an audible click.
6.Have the reason for the coolant loss elimi-
nated as soon as possible.

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121
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:
>Dimensions of the vehicle, page155
>If necessary: fold in the outside mirrors,
page 39.
>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.

Indicator and warning lamps
150
Selector lever position P not engaged.
Ignition cannot be switched offEngage selector lever position P when
you wish to switch off the ignition,
page44.
Cruise control system failed Have the system checked.
Park Distance Control failed Have the system checked.
Bulb of exterior lighting system failed Have the exterior lighting checked as
soon as possible.
Low-beam headlamp or fog lamp
failedHave the lamps checked as soon as
possible.
High-beam headlamp failed Have the high-beam headlamps
checked.
Rear fog lamp failed Have the rear fog lamp checked.
Headlamp beam throw adjustment
system failedHave the headlamp beam throw
adjustment system checked.
Coolant level too low Add coolant immediately, page118.
Engine oil pressure too low Stop immediately and switch off the
engine. You cannot continue your
journey. Contact your MINI dealer.
Lights up in red:
Service appointment overdue Arrange a service appointment.
Check service requirements, page58.
Lights up in yellow:
Service due Arrange a service appointment.
Check service requirements, page58.
12Cause What to do

Everything from A to Z
160
Everything from A to Z
INDEX
A
Accessories, refer to Your
individual vehicle4
Acknowledgment signals for
locking/unlocking vehicle21
Activated-charcoal filter for
automatic climate control83
Additives
– coolant118
– engine oil118
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Air
conditioner80
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Automatic
climate control81
Air conditioner79
Air conditioning mode
– air conditioner80
– automatic climate control81
– ventilation83
Air distribution
– automatic82
– individual81
– manual81
Air flow rate80,82
– air conditioning system80
– automatic climate control82
– heating, ventilation80
Air outlets, refer to Air vents79
Air pressure, checking, refer to
Tire inflation pressure104
Air recirculation, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode80,82
Air supply
– air conditioner80
– automatic climate control81
– ventilation83
Air vents79Airbags71
– sitting safely35
– warning lamp73
Airing, refer to Ventilation83
AKI, refer to Fuel grade103
Alarm system25
All-season tires, refer to Winter
tires115
Always Open Timer55
Ambient air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode80,82
Ambient lighting78
Antenna, care121
Antifreeze
– coolant118
– washer fluid51
Antilock Brake System ABS64
Anti-theft alarm system, refer
to Alarm system25
Anti-theft system19
Approved axle loads, refer to
Weights157
Approved engine oils118
Approved gross vehicle
weight, refer to Weights157
Armrest, refer to Center
armrest86
Ashtray88
Assistant systems, refer to
– Dynamic Stability Control
DSC64
Audio device, external86
AUTO program for automatic
climate control82
Automatic
– air distribution82
– air flow rate82
– cruise control51
– headlamp control74
Automatic climate control79
– automatic air distribution82Automatic transmission with
Steptronic46
– interlock46
– overriding selector lever
lock48
– shiftlock46
– sport program47
AUX-IN, refer to External audio
device86
Average fuel consumption54
– setting the units57
Average speed55
Axle loads, refer to
Weights157
B
Background lighting, refer to
Ambient lighting78
Backrests, refer to Seats35
Backup lamps
– replacing bulb128,129
Band-aids, refer to First aid
pouch136
Bar, refer to Tow-starting,
towing away138
Battery134
– charging135
– disposal28,135
– jump-starting136
– temporary power failure135
Battery renewal
– remote control28
Being towed138
Belt tensioner, refer to Safety
belts38
Belts, refer to Safety belts38
Beverage holders, refer to
Cupholders88
Black ice, refer to Outside
temperature warning53
Blower, refer to Air flow
rate80,82

Everything from A to Z
162
Convenient access, refer to
Comfort Access26
Convenient operation
– convertible top22
– windows20
Convenient start, refer to
Starting the engine45
Convertible top30
Coolant118
– checking level118
– filling118
Coolant temperature53
Cooling fluid, refer to
Coolant118
Cooling, maximum82
Copyright2
Cruising range54
Cupholders88
Curb weight, refer to
Weights157
Current fuel consumption55
D
Dashboard instruments, refer
to Displays12
Dashboard lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting77
Dashboard, refer to Cockpit10
Data154
– capacities158
– dimensions155
– engine154
– weights157
Data memory120
Date
– setting61
Daytime running lights75
DBC Dynamic Brake Control,
refer to Brake Assist64
Deactivating front passenger
airbags72
Deadlocking, refer to
Locking20
Defect
– door lock22
– fuel filler flap102
Defogging windows81,83Defrost position, refer to
Defrosting windows81,83
Defrosting windows81,83
Defrosting windows and
removing condensation
– air conditioner81
– automatic climate control83
Defrosting windshield, refer to
Defrosting windows81,83
Differential, breaking in92
Digital clock53
Dimensions155
Dipstick, engine oil117
Directional indicators, refer to
Turn signals48
Displacement, refer to Engine
data154
Display lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting77
Displays12
– instrument combination12
Displays and controls10
Displays, care124
Disposal
– of coolant118
– remote control battery28
– vehicle battery135
Distance remaining to service,
refer to Service
requirements58
Distance warning, refer to Park
Distance Control PDC63
Door key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control18
Door lock22
Door lock, confirmation
signals21
Doors, manual operation22
DOT Quality Grades112
Drinks holders, refer to
Cupholders88
Drive-off assistant, refer to Hill
Assist65
Driving dynamics control, refer
to Sport button65
Driving lamps, refer to Parking
lamps/low beams74
Driving notes92Driving off on inclines, refer to
Hill Assist65
Driving stability control
systems63
Driving through water93
Driving tips, refer to Driving
notes92
Dry air, refer to Cooling
function83
DTC Dynamic Traction Control
DTC64
Dynamic Brake Control DBC,
refer to Brake Assist64
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC64
Dynamic Traction Control64
E
Electric power windows
– initializing29
Electrical malfunction
– convertible top32
– door lock22
– fuel filler flap102
– trunk lid24
Electronic brake-force
distribution64
Electronic Stability Program
ESP, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC64
Emergency operation, refer to
Manual operation
– convertible top32
– door lock22
– fuel filler flap102
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission48
– trunk lid24
Emergency services, refer to
Roadside Assistance136

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163
Engine
– breaking in92
– data154
– overheated, refer to Coolant
temperature53
– speed154
– starting45
– starting, Comfort Access26
– switching off45
Engine compartment117
Engine coolant, refer to
Coolant118
Engine oil
– adding118
– additives, refer to Approved
engine oils118
– alternative oil types118
– approved engine oils118
– capacity118
– checking level117
– dipstick117
– intervals between changes,
refer to Service
requirements58
– MINI Maintenance
System119
Engine oil level, checking117
Engine output, refer to Engine
data154
Engine starting, refer to
Starting the engine45
Error messages, refer to Check
Control61
ESP Electronic Stability
Program, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC64
Exhaust system, refer to Hot
exhaust system92
Exterior mirrors39
– adjusting39
– automatic heating39
– folding in and out39
External audio device86
Eyes
– for tow-starting and towing
away138
– for tying down loads96F
Failure messages, refer to
Check Control61
Failure of an electrical
consumer135
Fastening safety belts, refer to
Safety belts38
Filter
– microfilter for air
conditioner81
– microfilter/activated-
charcoal filter for automatic
climate control83
Fine wood, care124
First aid pouch136
Fixture for remote control,
refer to Ignition lock44
Flash when locking/
unlocking21
Flat tire
– run-flat tires114
– Tire Pressure Monitor TPM68
Flat Tire Monitor FTM66
– indicating a flat tire67
– initializing the system66
– snow chains66
– system limits66
Flat tires, refer to Tire
condition113
Floor mats, care123
Fog lamps
– replacing bulb127,129
Folding rear seat backrest94
Folding roof, refer to
Convertible top with
integrated sliding sunroof30
Footbrake, refer to Braking
safely93
Footwell lamps77
For your own safety5
Front airbags71
Front fog lamps77
– indicator lamp140
– replacing bulb127
Front seat adjustment35
Frost on windows, refer to
Defrosting windows81,83FTM, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor66
Fuel103
– gauge54
– high-quality brands103
– quality103
– specifications103
– tank capacity158
Fuel clock, refer to Fuel
gauge54
Fuel consumption display
– average fuel consumption54
Fuel display, refer to Fuel
gauge
54
Fuel filler flap102
– releasing in the event of
electrical malfunction102
Fuses135
G
Garage door opener, refer to
Integrated universal remote
control84
Gasoline
– refer to Average fuel
consumption54
Gasoline display, refer to Fuel
gauge54
Gasoline, refer to Required
fuel103
Gear indicator
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic46
Gear shifting
– automatic transmission46
– manual transmission46
Gearshift lever
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic46
– manual transmission46
General driving notes92
Glass sunroof, electric28
– convenient operation20,22
– opening, closing28
– raising28
– remote control20
Glove compartment85
Grills, refer to Air vents79