traction control MINI Convertible 2010 Owner's Manual

REFERENCE
AT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
15
1MINI: microphone for voice processing sys-
tem
* and for hands-free telephone*
MINI Convertible: microphone in the steer-
ing column
2Indicator/warning lamp
* for front passen-
ger airbags72
4Hazard warning flashers
5Speedometer12
6Drive for audio CDs
7Switching audio sources on/off and adjust-
ing volume
8Air conditioner or automatic climate con-
trol
*
9Switches in center console
10AUX-IN port, USB audio interface
*86
11Driving stability control systems
>Dynamic Stability Control DSC64
>Dynamic Traction Control
DTC* 64
12Sport button
*65 3
Reading lamps
*78
Color of ambient lighting
*78
Glass sunroof, electric
*28
MINI Convertible: opening and clos-
ing the sliding/tilting roof30
Interior lamps77
Temperature80, 82
Recirculated-air mode80, 82
Air distribution for air
conditioner81
Air distribution to the
windshield
*82
Air distribution to the upper body
area
*82
Air distribution to the footwell
*82
Automatic air distribution and flow
rate
*82
Maximum cooling
*82
Cooling function80, 83
Defrosting windows
*81, 83
Rear window defroster80, 82
Windshield heating
*81, 83
Air flow rate80, 82
Seat heating
*38
Power windows29
MINI Convertible: central power
window unit29
Rear fog lamp
*77
Fog lamps
*77
Central locking system, inside23

Technology for driving comfort and safety
64
Antilock Brake System ABS
ABS prevents locking of the wheels during brak-
ing. Safe steering response is maintained even
during full braking. Active safety is thus
increased.
Braking safely, refer to page93.
Among others, ABS includes the following func-
tions:
>Cornering Brake Control CBC
>Electronic brake-force distribution EBV
>Brake Assist
Cornering Brake Control CBC
Driving stability and steering characteristics are
further enhanced while braking in turns or dur-
ing a lane change.
Electronic brake-force 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
DSC prevents the driving wheels from losing
traction when you pull away from rest or accel-
erate. The system also recognizes unstable driv-
ing conditions, for example if the rear of the car
is about to swerve or if momentum is acting at
an angle past the front wheels. In these cases,
DSC helps the vehicle maintain a safe course
within physical limits by reducing engine output
and through braking actions at the individual
wheels.
DSC also encompasses the following functions:
>Antilock Brake System ABS
>Electronic brake-force distribution EBV
>Brake Assist>Cornering Brake Control CBC
>Hill Assist
Deactivating DSC
Press the button repeatedly until the DSC indica-
tor lamps come on. DSC is deactivated. Stabiliz-
ing and propulsion promoting actions are no
longer executed.
When driving with snow chains or to 'rock free'
in snow, it can be helpful to switch off DSC for a
brief period.
To increase vehicle stability, activate DSC again
as soon as possible.
Activating DSC
Press the button again: the DSC indicator lamps
go out.
For better control
If the indicator lamp flashes:
The DSC controls the driving and break-
ing forces.
If the indicator lamps are on:
DSC is deactivated.
Dynamic Traction Control DTC*
DTC is a type of DSC that is propulsion optimized
for special road conditions such as uncleared
snowy roads. The system ensures maximum
propulsion though with restricted driving stabil-
ity. You therefore need to drive with suitable
caution.
In the following exceptional situations, it can be
useful to briefly activate DTC:

REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
65
>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 DTC indicator lamps come
on.
For better control
If the indicator lamp flashes:
DTC controls the driving and breaking
forces.
If the indicator lamps are on:
DTC is activated.
Deactivating DTC
Press the button again: the DSC indicator lamps
go out.
Deactivating both DTC and DSC
Press the button for at least 3 seconds: the DSC
indicator lamps in the display elements come
on. The Dynamic Traction Control DTC and Dynamic Stability Control DSC are both deacti-
vated. There will be no more stabilizing inter-
ventions.
Interventions (differential lock
*) in braking
occur to improve propulsion when drive wheels
are rotating unevenly, even when the DSC is
deactivated.
Activating DSC
Press the button again: the indicator lamps go
out.
Hill Assist
Hill Assist aids you in comfortably driving off on
inclines. It is not necessary to use the parking
brake for this.
1.Hold the MINI with the brake.
2.Release the brake and immediately drive
off.
Hill Assist holds the car in place for approx.
2 seconds after the brake is released.
Depending on the load and gradient, the
vehicle can roll backward slightly during
this period. After you release the brake, immedi-
ately start driving since the Hill Assist only holds
the vehicle for about 2 seconds, and it will start
to roll backwards.<
Sport button*
Pressing the button causes your MINI to respond
even more sportily.
>Engine responds more spontaneously to
movements of the accelerator.
>Steering response is more direct.
>Cooper S, John Cooper Works: the engine
sounds more sporty in coasting mode.
With automatic transmission:
>More rapid gear shifting in Sport program.

Wheels and tires
112
Tire coding
Knowledge of the labeling on the side of the tire
makes it easier to identify and choose the right
tires.
Tire size
Speed code letter
Q = up to 100 mph or 160 km/h
T = up to 118 mph or 190 km/h
H = up to 131 mph or 210 km/h
V = up to 150 mph or 240 km/h
W = up to 167 mph or 270 km/h
Y = up to 186 mph or 300 km/h
Tire Identification Number
Tires with DOT codes meet the guidelines of the
US Department of Transportation.
DOT code:
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable
on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and
maximum section width. For example:
Tread wear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
DOT Quality Grades
Tread wear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger car tires must conform to
Federal Safety Requirements in addition
to these grades.<
Tread wear
The tread wear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified gov-
ernment test course. For example, a tire graded
150 would wear one and one-half (1γ) times as
well on the government course as a tire graded
100. The relative performance of tires depends
upon the actual conditions of their use, how-
ever, and may depart significantly from the
norm due to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road characteristics
and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are
AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire’s ability to stop
on wet pavement as measured under controlled
conditions on specified government test sur-
faces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on straight-ahead braking traction
tests, and does not include acceleration, corner-
ing, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteris-
tics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A, the highest, B,
and C, representing the tire's resistance to the
generation of heat and its ability to dissipate
heat when tested under controlled conditions
on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sus-
tained high temperature can cause the material
of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire
failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of
performance which all passenger car tires must e.g.
Nominal width in mm
Aspect ratio in Ξ
Radial belt construction
Rim diameter in inches
Load rating,
not on ZR tires
Speed code letter, in
front of the R on ZR tires
225/45 R 17 91 V
For instance:
Manufacturer's
code for tire make
Tire size and
tire design
Tire ageDOT xxxx xxx 0810

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.<

Indicator and warning lamps
146
Indication* in Canadian models
Vehicle electronics failed You cannot continue your journey.
Contact your MINI dealer.
Indication
* in Canadian models
Vehicle electronics failed You cannot continue your journey.
Contact your MINI dealer.
Lights up in red: Have the system in question checked
without delay.
>Starter failed or The engine cannot be restarted.
>ignition malfunctioning. Engine
restart only possible when brake
is depressed or
>lighting system failed. Low
beams/tail lamps and brake
lamps still operational. All other
lamps failedDepress the brake to start the engine
again.
Lights up in yellow:
>Control of the brake lamps failed
or
>fuel supply malfunctioningYou can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Have the system in ques-
tion checked without delay.
>Drive malfunctioningYou can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Transmission limp-home
program active with restricted range
of gears. Have the system checked
immediately.
Flashing:
Dynamic Stability Control DSC or
Dynamic Traction Control DTC is con-
trolling drive and braking forces, refer
also to page63
12Cause What to do

REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
147
Dynamic Traction Control DTC is acti-
vated, refer also to page64
The Dynamic Stability Control DSC
and Dynamic Traction Control DTC
are deactivated, refer also to page63Driving stability limited during accel-
eration and cornering.
Driving style must be adjusted.
The Dynamic Stability Control DSC
and Dynamic Traction Control DTC
have failed.Driving stability limited during accel-
eration and cornering.
You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Have the system
checked as soon as possible.
Indication in US models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS and the Tire Pressure
Monitor, have failed, refer also to
page63Reduced braking and driving stability.
Drive cautiously and think well ahead.
Avoid braking with full force, driving
on rough tracks, and depressing the
accelerator pedal to full throttle or
kickdown position. Have the system
checked immediately.
Indication
* in Canadian models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS and the Flat Tire Moni-
tor or the Tire Pressure Monitor
*,
have failed, refer also to page63Reduced braking and driving stability.
Drive cautiously and think well ahead.
Avoid braking with full force, driving
on rough tracks, and depressing the
accelerator pedal to full throttle or
kickdown position. Have the system
checked immediately.
Indication
* in Canadian models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS and the Flat Tire Moni-
tor or the Tire Pressure Monitor
*,
have failed, refer also to page63Drive cautiously and think well ahead.
Avoid braking with full force, driving
on rough tracks, and depressing the
accelerator pedal to full throttle or
kickdown position. Have the system
checked immediately.
12Cause What to do

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

REFERENCEAT A GLANCE CONTROLS DRIVING TIPS MOBILITY
169
Traction control, refer to
– Dynamic Stability Control
DSC64
Trailer operation
– trailer loads and gross vehicle
weight157
Transmission
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic46
– manual transmission46
– overriding selector lever lock
for automatic transmission
with Steptronic48
Transport securing devices,
refer to Securing cargo96
Transporting children safely41
Tread depth, refer to Minimum
tire tread113
Trip odometer53
Trip-distance counter, refer to
Trip odometer53
Triple turn signal activation48
Trunk lid
– emergency operation24
– releasing manually24
Trunk, refer to Luggage
compartment in the MINI
Convertible94
Turn signal indicator48
– front, replacing bulb127
– indicator lamp12
– rear, replacing bulb128
– side, replacing bulb128
Turning circle, refer to
Dimensions155
Tying down loads, refer to
Cargo loading96
U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
UTQR112
Units
– average fuel consumption57
– temperature57
Universal garage door opener,
refer to Integrated universal
remote control84
Universal remote control84Unlatching, refer to
Unlocking27
Unlocking
– from inside23
– from outside19
– liftgate27
– without remote control, refer
to Comfort Access26
Upholstery, care123
USB audio interface86
V
Valve
– dust cap133
Vehicle
– battery134
– breaking in92
– cargo loading94
– dimensions155
– Identification Number, refer
to Engine compartment117
– parking45
– storage124
– weight157
Vehicle jack132
– jacking points134
Ventilation
– air conditioner83
Vents, refer to Air vents79
Vents, refer to Ventilation83
Volume of cargo area157
W
Warning and indicator
lamps13,140
Warning messages, refer to
Check Control61
Warning triangle136
Washer fluid51
– capacity of reservoir51
Washer fluid reservoir51
Waste tray, refer to Ashtray88
Water on roads, refer to
Driving through water93
Waterfall lighting, refer to
Ambient lighting78Wear indicators in tires, refer to
Minimum tread depth113
Weights157
Welcome lamps74
Wheel stud wrench
– space-saver spare tire132
Wheelbase, refer to
Dimensions155
Wheels and tires104
Wheels, new114
Width, refer to
Dimensions155
Wind deflector33
Window washer, refer to
Washer fluid51
Window washer reservoir,
refer to Washer fluid
– volume, refer to
Capacities158
Window washer system49
– washer fluid51
– washer jets51
Windows29
– closing29
– convenient operation20
– opening29
– pinch protection system30
Windshield
– cleaning50
– defrosting and removing
condensation81,83
Windshield wiper blades,
changing125
Windshield wipers, refer to
Wiper system49
Winter tires115
– storage115
Wiper blade replacement125
Wiper system49
Work in the engine
compartment116
Wrench/screwdriver, refer to
Onboard vehicle tool kit125
X
Xenon lamps
– replacing bulb126