catalytic converter MINI COOPER 2003 Owners Manual

46
STARTING THE ENGINE Do not allow the engine to warm up with
the vehicle at a standstill. Move off imme-
diately at a moderate engine speed.
Do not allow the engine to run in
enclosed spaces. The exhaust gases
contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and
colorless, but highly toxic gas. Breathing
the exhaust gases poses an extreme health
risk, and can lead to unconsciousness and
death.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended with
the engine running. This is a safety hazard.
When driving, standing at idle or parking
the vehicle, take care to avoid contact
between the hot exhaust system and flam-
mable materials – e.g. hay, leaves, grass,
etc. Such contact could lead to a fire, result-
ing in serious personal injury and property
damage.<
StartingWhen starting the engine, do not press the
accelerator pedal.
Do not actuate the starter for too
short a time. Do not turn it for more
than approx. 20 seconds. Release the igni-
tion key immediately when the engine
starts.
Extended starting attempts, characterized
by excessively frequent or long periods
with the starter engaged, can lead to dam-
age in the catalytic converter.<
If the engine does not start on the first
attempt, for instance if the engine is very
hot or cold:
>When starting the engine, press the gas
pedal down halfway.
When first starting the engine at very low
temperatures – from +5 7 / –15 6:
>When starting the engine, press the gas
pedal down halfway
>For the initial start attempt, allow the
starter to remain engaged somewhat
longer, approx. 10 seconds.
Manual transmission1. Engage the parking brake
2. Put the manual gearshift lever in neutral
3. Press the clutch pedal
4. Start the engine.Continuously Variable automatic
Transmission (CVT)*1. Press the footbrake
2. Put the selector lever in position P or N
3. Start the engine.
Move the selector lever to position P
and engage the parking brake before
leaving your vehicle with the engine run-
ning.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended with
the engine running. This is a safety haz-
ard.<
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102
OBD SOCKET The interface socket for onboard diagnos-
tics is located on the driver's side, behind a
cover located beneath the instrument
panel. The cover has the letters OBD on it.
The purpose of the OBD system is to ensure
proper operation of the emission control
system for the vehicle‘s lifetime. The sys-
tem monitors emission-related compo-
nents for deterioration and malfunction.
An illuminated lamp informs you of
the need for service, not of the
need to stop the vehicle.
However, the system should be checked by
your MINI Dealer at the earliest possible
opportunity.
Under certain conditions, the indicator will
blink or flash. This indicates a rather severe
level of engine misfire. When this occurs,
you should reduce speed and consult the
nearest MINI Dealer as soon as possible.
Severe engine misfire over only a short
period of time can seriously damage emis-
sion control components, especially the
catalytic converter.
Service Engine Soon warning lamp
for Canadian models.
When the filler cap is not properly
tightened, the OBD system can detect
the vapor leak and the indicator will light
up. If the filler cap is subsequently tight-
ened, the indicator lamp should go out
within a few days.<
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