tow bar MINI Countryman 2012 Owner's Manual

CONTROLSTechnology for driving comfort and safety
64
Technology for driving comfort and
safety
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 coun try version. This also
applies to safety relate d functions and systems.
Park Distance Control
PDC
The concept
PDC assists you with parking in reverse. Acoustic
signals warn you of the presence of an object
behind the vehicle. The measurement is carried
out by four ultrasonic sensors in the rear
bumper.
An acoustic warning sounds when an
object is approx. 24 in/60 cm from the
corner sensors or approx. 5 ft/1.50 m from the
center sensors. PDC is a parking aid that can
indicate objects when they are approached
slowly, as is usually the case when parking.
Avoid approaching an object at high speed;
otherwise, physical circ umstances may lead to
the system warning being issued too late. <
Automatic mode
With the engine running or the ignition switched
on, the system is activated automatically after
approx. 1 second when you engage reverse
gear or move the automatic transmission selec-
tor lever to position R. Wait this short period
before driving.
Acoustic signals
As the distance between vehicle and object
decreases, the intervals between the tones
become shorter. If the distance to the nearest
object falls to below roughly 1 ft/30 cm, then
a continuous tone sounds.
If the distance remains co nstant, e.g. when driv-
ing parallel to a wall, the acoustic signal stops
after approx. 3 seconds.
Adjustments
The volume of the acoustic signals can be set,
refer to page 108.
Malfunction
Indicator lamp lights up. PDC has failed.
Have the system checked.
To avoid this problem, keep the sensors
clean and free of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they will continue to operate effectively.
When using a high-pressure cleaner, do not
direct the jet toward the sensors for lengthy
periods and only spray from a distance of at least
4in/10cm.
System limitations
Even with PDC, final responsibility for esti-
mating the distance between the vehicle
and any obstructions always remains with the
driver. Sensors, too, have blind spots in which
objects cannot be dete cted. Moreover, ultra-
sonic detection can reach its physical limits with
objects such as trailer tow bars and couplings,
thin and wedge-shaped objects, etc. Low
objects already indicated, such as curbs, may
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
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Replacing componentsMOBILITY
155
Replacing components
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.
Wiper blades
Do not place windshield wipers on the
windshield if wiper blades are not
installed; otherwise, the windshield may be
damaged. <
Changing the front wiper blades
1.Fold out the wiper arm and hold it.
2. Press together the locking spring, arrows 1,
and fold out the wiper blade, arrow 2.
3. Pull the wiper blade forward and out of the
catch mechanism.
4. Press the new wiper blade into the fixture
until it engages audibly.
To avoid damage, make sure that the
wiper arms are against the windshield
before you open the hood. <
Changing the rear wiper blade
1.Fold out the wiper arm and hold it.
2. Rotate the wiper blade toward the back as
far as it will go, arrow.
3. Press the wiper blade against the limit and
thus out of the mounting.
4. Press the new wiper blade into the fixture
until it engages audibly.
Lamps and bulbs
Lamps and bulbs make an essential contribution
to vehicle safety. They should, therefore, be
handled carefully. The manufacturer of your
MINI recommends having your MINI dealer per-
form any work that you do not feel competent to
perform yourself or that is not described here.
Never touch the glass of new bulbs with
your bare fingers, as even minute
amounts of contaminatio n will burn into the
bulb's surface and reduce its service life. Use a
clean tissue, cloth or some thing similar, or hold
the bulb by its base.<
You can obtain a selectio n of replacement bulbs
at your MINI dealer.
Only replace bulbs after they have cooled
down; otherwise, you may burn your
fingers.<
When working on electrical systems,
always begin by switching off the
consumer in question; otherwise, short circuits
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Replacing componentsMOBILITY
161
4.Unscrew the dust cap from the valve of the
defective wheel and screw the filling hose 2
of the sealant bottle onto the valve.
5. Ensure that the compre ssor is switched off.
6. Insert the plug 5 into the lighter socket/
power socket in the vehicle interior,
page 93.
7. With the engine running:
Switch on the compre ssor and let run for
about 3 to 8 minutes in order to add the
sealant and to achieve an inflation pressure
of about 1.8 bar/26 psi.
When adding sealant, the filling pres-
sure can temporarily increase up to
about 5 bar/73 psi. Do not switch off the
compressor during this phase. <
Do not run the compressor for longer
than 10 minutes; otherwise, the
device will overheat and possibly be
damaged. <
8. Switch off the compressor.
If an inflation pressure of 1.8 bar/26 psi is not
reached:
1. Unscrew the filling hose 2 from the wheel
and drive the vehicle forward and backward
approx. 33 ft/10 m to distribute the liquid
sealant in the tire evenly.
2. Inflate the tire again with the compressor.
If an inflation pressure of 1.8 bar/26 psi
still cannot be reached, then the tire is too
heavily damaged. Please contact the nearest
MINI dealer. <
Stowing Mobility Kit
1.Unscrew filler hose 2 of the sealant bottle
from the wheel.
2. Unscrew connecting hose of the
compressor 6 from the sealant bottle.
3. Connect the filler hose 2 of the sealant
bottle to the unoccupied connection on the
sealant bottle.
This prevents the rest of the sealant from
escaping from the bottle.
4. Wrap the empty sealant bottle in suitable
material to avoid dirtying the cargo area.
5. Stow Mobility Kit back in the vehicle.
Distributing the sealant.
Immediately drive approx. 3.1 miles/5 km so
that the sealant evenly distributes itself.
Do not exceed speeds of 50 mph/
80 km/h.
If possible, do not drop below 10 mph/
20 km/h.<
Correct the tire inflation pressure.
1. After driving approx. 3.1 miles/5 km or
ten minutes, stop at a suitable location.
2. Screw the connection hose 6 of the com-
pressor directly onto the tire valve.
3. Insert the plug 5 into the power socket in
the vehicle interior.
4. Adjust tire pressure to 1.8 bar/26 psi. With
the engine running:
> To increase the inflatio n pressure: switch on
the compressor. To check the current infla-
tion pressure, switch off the compressor.
Do not run the compressor for longer
than 10 minutes; otherwise, the
device will overheat and possibly be
damaged. <
> To decrease the inflat ion pressure: press the
release button 9.
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Giving and receiving assistanceMOBILITY
167
Using a tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting must always be carried
in the car. It can be screwed in at the front or at
the right rear.
Depending upon the vehicle features, the tow
fitting is located
>under the right or left front seat.
> in the pouch for the tire-changing set in the
luggage compartment.
Use only the tow fitting provided with the
vehicle and screw it all the way in. Use the
tow fitting for towing on paved roads only. Avoid
lateral loading of the tow fitting, e.g. do not lift
the vehicle by the tow fitting. Otherwise, the tow
fitting and the vehicle could be damaged. <
Access to screw thread
Press sideways on the cover, vehicle outer side.
This will push out the oppo site side of the cover,
which can then be removed.
Front Rear
Being towed
Make sure that the ignition is switched on,
refer to page
45; otherwise, the low
beams, tail lamps, turn signals, and windshield
wipers may be unavailable. Do not tow the vehi-
cle with just the rear ax le raised, as this would
allow the steering to turn. <
There is no power assist while the engine is off.
Thus, braking and steering will require increased
effort.
Switch on the hazard warning flashers, depend-
ing on local regulations.
Manual transmission
Gearshift lever in neutral position.
Automatic transmission
Tow vehicles with automatic transmission
only with a tow truck or with the front
wheels lifted; otherwise, the transmission can be
damaged. <
Towing methods
Do not lift vehicle by tow fitting or body
and chassis parts, otherwise damage may
result. <
With towbar
The towing vehicle must not be lighter
than the towed vehicle; otherwise, it may
be impossible to maintain control. <
The tow fittings used should be on the same side
on both vehicles. Should it prove impossible to
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MOBILITYGiving and receiving assistance
168
avoid mounting the tow bar at an angle, please
observe the following:
>Clearance and maneuver ing capability will
be sharply limited during cornering.
> The tow bar will generate lateral forces if it is
attached offset.
Only attach the tow bar to the tow fittings,
as attachment to other vehicle parts can
lead to damage. <
With tow rope
When starting off in the towing vehicle, make
sure that the tow rope is taut.
To avoid jerking and the associated
stresses on vehicle components when
towing, always use nylon ropes or nylon straps.
Attach the tow rope to the tow fittings only, as
attaching it to other pa rts of the vehicle could
result in damage. <
With tow truck: vehicles without ALL4
all-wheel drive
Have the MINI Countryman transported by a tow
truck with a so-called lift bar or on a flat bed.
With tow truck: vehicles with ALL4 all-
wheel drive
Do not have your vehicle with ALL4 all-
wheel drive towed with the front or rear
axle raised individually; otherwise, the wheels
may lock and the transfer case may be dam-
aged. < Only have your MINI Countryman transported
on a flat bed.
Tow-starting
Avoid tow-starting the vehicle whenever possi-
ble; instead, jump-start the engine, page
165.
Vehicles with a catalyti c converter should only
be tow-started when the engine is cold, vehicles
with an automatic transmission cannot be tow-
started at all.
1. Switch on hazard warning flashers, comply
with local regulations.
2. Switch on the ignition, page 45.
3. Shift into 3rd gear.
4. Have the vehicle tow-started with the clutch
completely depressed and then slowly
release the clutch. After the engine starts,
immediately depress the clutch completely
again.
5. Stop at a suitable lo cation, remove the tow
bar or rope and switch off the hazard warn-
ing flashers.
6. Have the vehicle checked.
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188
REFERENCEEverything from A to Z
Everything from A to Z
Index
A
ABS Antilock Brake System65
Accepting a call 125
Accessories, see Vehicle equipment 4
Acknowledgment signals for locking/unlocking vehicle 24
Activated-charcoa l filter for
automatic climate control 85
Adaptive Light Control 78
Adding engine oil 147
Additives
– coolant 148
– engine oil 147
Adjusting temperature inside the car, refer to Air
conditioner 82
Adjusting temperature inside the car, refer to Automatic
climate control 83
Airbags 73
– sitting safely 34
– warning lamp 75
Air conditioner 81
Air conditioning mode
– air conditioner 82
– automatic cl imate control83
– ventilation 85
Air distribution
– automatic 84
– individual 83
– manual 83
Air flow rate 82,84
– air conditioning system 82
– automatic cl imate control84
– heating, ventilation 82
Airing, refer to Ventilation85
Air outlets, refer to Air vents 81
Air pressure, checking, refer to Tire inflation pressure 136Air recirculation, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode 82,84
Air supply
– air conditioner 82
– automatic climate control 83
– ventilation 85
Air vents 81
AKI, refer to Fuel grade 135
Alarm system 28
ALL4 all-wheel drive system 67
All-season tires, refer to Winter
tires 144
All-wheel drive, refer to ALL4 67
Ambient air, refer to Recirculated-air
mode 82,
84
Am bient li
ghti

ng80
Antenna, care 151
Antifreeze
– coolant 148
– washer fluid 53
Antilock Brake System ABS 65
Anti-theft alarm system, refer to Alarm system 28
Approved axle loads, refer to Weights 186
Approved engine oils 147
Approved gross vehicle weight, refer to Weights 186
Armrest, refer to Center
armrest 90
Ashtray 93
Assistant systems, refer to
– Dynamic Stability Control DSC 65
Audio device, external 90Automatic
– air distribution
84
– air flow rate 84
– cruise control 53
– headlamp control 76
Automatic climate control 81
– automatic air distribution 84
Automatic station search 109
Automatic station storage 110
Automatic transmission with Steptronic 47
– interlock 48
– overriding selector lever lock 49
– shiftlock 48
– sport program 49
AUTO program for automatic climate control 84
Auto radio, refer to Radio MINI Boost CD 108
AUX-In, refer to External audio device 90
AUX-In connection 108
Average fuel consumption 56
– setting the units 59
Average speed 57
Axle loads, refer to Weights 186
B
Background lighting, refer to
Ambient lighting 80
Backrests, refer to Seats 35
Backup lamps
– replacing bulb 158,159
Band-aids, refer to First aid pouch 165
Bar, refer to Tow-starting, towing away 167
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Everything from A to ZREFERENCE
197
Steptronic, refer to Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 47
Storage area
– cargo area 98
Storage compartments 91
Storage space
– storage compartments 91
Storing the vehicle 154
Storing tires 144
Stowage, refer to Storage compartments 91
Summer tires, re fer to Wheels
and tires 136
Switches, refer to Cockpit 10
Switching off
– engine 46
Switching off the engine 46
– Start/Stop button 45
Switching on
– CD player 108,113
– radio MINI Boost CD 108
Switching the cooling function on and off 85
Symbols 4
T
Tachometer 55
Tailgate 28
– Comfort Access 30
– opening/closing 28
– opening from outside 28
– unlocking with remote control 25
Tail lamp, refer to Tail
lamps 158
– replacing bulb 158
Tail lamps 158
Tank volume, refer to Capacities 187
Technical data 184
Technical modifications 4Telephone
120
– hands-free system 128
– installation location, refer to Center armrest 90
– voice commands 128
Temperature display
– setting the units 59
Temperature of coolant, refer to Coolant temperature 148
Temperature setting
– air conditioner 82
– automatic climate control 84
Tempomat, refer to Cruise
control 53
Tensioning straps, refer to Securing cargo 102
Third brake lamp, refer to Center brake lamp 159
Three-point safety belt 37
Tightening the lug bolts
– torque 163
Tightening torque, refer to
Tightening lug bolts 163
Time
– setting 109
Tire failure
– Flat Tire Monitor 69
– indicator/warning lamp 69
– MINI Mobility Kit 160
– run-flat tires 69
– Tire Pressure Monitor 70
Tire inflation pressure 136
– loss 69
Tire pressure mo nitoring, refer
to Flat Tire Monitor 68
Tire Pressure Monitor TPM 70
– limitations of system 70
– resetting system 70
– warning lamp 71
Tire Quality Grading 141Tires
– age
143
– breaking in 96
– changing, refe r to Changing
wheels 162
– co
n

dition 142
– damage 142
– inflation pressure 136
– inflation pressure loss 71
– minimum tread depth 142
– new tires 143
– pressure monitoring, refer to Flat Tire Monitor 68
– pressure monitoring, refer to Tire Pressure Monitor
TPM 70
– puncture 69
– size 141
– wear indicators, refer to
Minimum tread depth 142
– winter tires 144
– with emergency operation
properties 143
Tires with emergency operation properties, refer to
Run-flat tires 143
Tires with safety features, refer
to Run-flat tires 143
Tone
– middle setting 109
Torque 184
– lug bolts 163
Tow bar 167
Tow fitting 167
– screw thread 167
Tow fittings for tow-starting
and towing away 167
Towing 166
– car with automatic
transmission 167
– methods 167
Tow rope 168
Tow-starting 166
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