window MINI Coupe 2012 Owner's Guide

DRIVING TIPSThings to remember when driving
106
Things to remember when driving
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.
Break-in period
Moving parts need breaking-in time to adjust to
each other. Please follow the instructions below
in order to achieve the optimal service life and
economy of operation for your vehicle.
Engine and differential
Always obey all official speed limits.
Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do
not exceed the following:
> Gasoline engine
4,500 rpm or 100 mph/160 km/h
Avoid full-throttle operation and use of the
transmission's kickdown mode.
After driving 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Engine and vehicle speeds can be gradually
increased.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated with their
manufacture, tires do not achieve their full
traction potential until af ter an initial break-in
period. Therefore, drive cautiously during the
first 200 miles/300 km.
Brake system
Brakes require an initial break-in period of
approx. 300 miles/500 km to achieve optimized contact and wear patterns between brake pads
and rotors. Drive cautiously
during this break-in
period.
Clutch
The function of the clutch reaches its optimal
level only after a distan ce driven of approx.
300 miles/500 km. During this break-in period,
engage the clutch gently.
Following part replacement
The same break-in procedures should be
observed if any of the components mentioned
above have to be renewed in the course of the
vehicle's operating life.
General driving notes
Ground clearance
When driving, ensure that there is suffi-
cient ground clearance, such as when
entering underground parking garages, driving
over curbs or when driving in winter; otherwise
damage to the vehicle may result. <
Close the tailgate
Only drive with the tailgate closed. Failure
to do so may endanger passengers or
other road users or may damage the vehicle in
the event of an accident or a braking and
evasive maneuver. In a ddition, exhaust gas may
flow into the passenger compartment. <
If special circumstances make it absolutely
necessary to drive with the tailgate open:
1. Coupe: close all windows.
2. Switch off the recirculated-air mode and
switch the airflow contro l of the heating, air
conditioner, or automa tic climate control to
high, refer to page 95 or97.
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DRIVING TIPSThings to remember when driving
112
ger the car's occupants, for example if sudden
braking or swerves are necessary.
Do not exceed the approved gross vehicle
weight and axle loads, page 203; otherwise, the
operating safety of the vehicle is no longer
assured and the vehicle will not be in compli-
ance with the construction and use regulations.
Heavy or hard objects should not be carried
loose inside the car, since they could be thrown
around, for example as a result of heavy braking,
sudden swerves, etc., and endanger the occu-
pants. Do not secure cargo using the fastening
points for the tether strap, page 52; they may
become damaged. <
Rear luggage rack
A special rack system is available as an option for
your MINI. Please note the information con-
tained in the assembly instructions.
Mounting points
The mounting points are under the protective
caps in the bumper.
Push out the caps at the respective slots.
Loading rear luggage rack
When loading, make su re that the maximum
allowed roof load, the gross vehicle weight and
the axle loads are not exceeded.
You can find the applicable data under Weights
on page 203.
Saving fuel
Your vehicle incorporates numerous technolo-
gies for reducing fuel consumption and emis-
sions.
Fuel consumption depends on a number of
different factors. Fuel consumption and environ-
mental pollution are affect ed by various actions,
the manner of driving and regular maintenance.
Remove unnecessary cargo
Additional weight increases fuel consumption.
Remove attached parts no longer in use
Remove luggage rack if no longer needed after
use.
Attached parts on the ve hicle affect its aerody-
namics and increase fuel consumption.
Closing windows
Open windows increase air resistance and
therefore fuel consumption.
Check tire inflation pressure regularly
Check and, if necessary, correct tire inflation
pressure at least twice a month and before start-
ing on a long trip.
Low inflation pressure increases rolling resis-
tance and thus leads to greater fuel consump-
tion and tire wear.
Drive off immediately
Do not wait for the engine to warm up while the
vehicle remains stationary. Start driving right
away, but at moderate engi ne speeds. This is the
fastest way for the cold engine to reach its
operating temperature.
Think ahead while driving
Avoid unnecessary accelera tion and braking. by
maintaining a suitable di stance to the vehicle
driving ahead.
Looking-ahead and smooth driving reduces fuel
consumption.
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Things to remember when drivingDRIVING TIPS
113
Avoid high engine speeds
Use first gear only for driving off. In second and
higher gears, accelerate smoothly to a suitable
engine and road speed. In doing so, avoid high
engine speeds and shift up early.
When you reach your desired traveling speed,
shift to the highest suitable gear and drive at
constant speed.
As a rule: driving at lo w engine speeds lowers
fuel consumption and reduces wear.
Coasting
When approaching a red traffic light, take your
foot off the accelerator and let the car roll to a
stop in the highest gear possible.
On a downhill gradient, take your foot off the
accelerator and let the vehi cle coast in a suitable
gear.
Fuel supply is shut off automatically when the
vehicle is coasting.
Switch off the engine during lengthy
stops
Switch off the engine when stopping for lengthy
periods, e.g. at traffic lights, railroad crossings or
in traffic jams.
Switch off any features that are not
currently required
Features such as air conditioning, seat heaters
and the rear window defroster require a great
deal of energy and result in greater fuel con-
sumption, especially in city driving and during
Stop & Go operation. For this reason, switch off
these features if they are not really needed.
Have the vehicle serviced
Have your vehicle serviced regularly to achieve
good economy and a long vehicle life. The
manufacturer of your MINI recommends having
the vehicle serviced by a MINI dealer. Also note
the MINI Maintenance System, page 159.
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Engine compartmentMOBILITY
155
Engine compartment
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.
General information
Never attempt to perform any service or
repair operations on your vehicle without
the required professional technical training. If
you do not know how to follow the specified
instructions, then have the work carried out by
your MINI dealer. If this work is not carried out
properly, there is a danger of subsequent
damage and related safety hazards. <
Important parts of the engine compartment
1Vehicle identification number
2 Battery, under the cover 177
3 Engine oil dipstick 156
4 Engine oil filler neck 157 5
Coolant expansion tank 158
6 Reservoir for washer fl uid for the headlamp
and window washer system 62
7 Engine compartment fuse box 176
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CareMOBILITY
161
Care
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.
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.
Your MINI dealer would be pleased to advise
you on cleaning and care products and services
for your MINI.
The ingredients of original MINI Care
Products have been tested, and the
products have been tested in the laboratory
and in practice. They offer optimum care and
protection for your vehicle. <
Do not use any cleansers containing
alcohol or solvents as these may cause
damage. <
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
system is suitable for your MINI. Observe the
following points:
> Vehicle dimensions, page 197.
> If necessary: fold in the outside mirrors,
page 49.
> 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.
> MINI Coupe, MINI Roadster: retract spoiler.
> Deactivate the rain sensor to prevent
unintentional wiping.
> Remove additional attachments, e.g.
spoilers or telephone antennas, if there is
a possibility that they could be damaged.
> Insert the remote control into the ignition
lock.
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MOBILITYCare
162
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.
Steam jets/high-pressure washers
When using steam jets or high-pressure
washers, make sure that you maintain
sufficient distance from the vehicle and do not
exceed a maximum temperature of 140 7/
60 6 .
If the distance is too close, the pressure too high,
or the temperature too high, parts of the vehicle
can be damaged, or water can penetrate.
Observe the operating instructions for high-
pressure washers. <
Do not spray sensors, such as the Park
Distance Control, with high-pressure
washers for a long time or at a distance of less
than 1 ft/30 cm. <
Manual washing
Use a great deal of water and, if necessary, car
shampoo when washing your car by hand. Clean
the vehicle with a sponge or a washing brush
applying a slight amount of pressure.
Before cleaning the windshield, deacti-
vate the rain sensor or turn off the ignition
to prevent unintentional wiping. <
Observe local regulations regarding
washing vehicles by hand. <
Headlamps
Do not wipe dry and do not use abrasive or
corrosive cleaning agents. Remove dirt and
contamination, such as in sects, by soaking with
shampoo and then washing with plenty of
water. Do not remove accumulated ice and snow with
an ice scraper; use window deicers instead.
Windows
Clean the outside and inside of the windows and
mirrors with a window cleaner.
Do not clean the mirrors with cleaners
containing quartz. <
Wiper blades
Clean with soapy water and change regularly to
prevent the formation of streaks.
Wax, preservatives and dirt on the
windows cause streaks when the wind-
shield wipers are on, and can cause premature
wear of the wiper blades and interfere with the
rain sensor. <
Care of the convertible top
The appearance and service life of the conver-
tible top largely depends on its proper care and
operation.
Please follow these instructions:
>Never attempt to fold and stow the conver-
tible top in the convertible compartment
when the top is wet or frozen. Otherwise,
water stains, mildew, and chafe marks may
occur.
> If water spots occur on the inside headliner
despite precautions, remove them using a
microfiber cloth and interior cleaner.
> If the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area
for a longer period of time, make sure that
there is sufficient ventilation.
> Remove any bird droppings immediately,
since they have corrosive properties which
will corrode the conver tible top and damage
the rubber seals.
When attempting to remove stains from
the convertible top, do not use spot
removers, paint thinners, solvents, gasoline, or
similar fluids. These cleaners may damage the
rubber seals. The improper care or cleaning
methods may cause the convertible top and its
seams to leak. <
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MOBILITYIndicator and warning lamps
184
Fuel cap missing or looseMake sure that the fuel cap is correctly
positioned and close it until it audibly
clicks. Do not jam the strap between
the fuel cap and the vehicle.
Window washer fluid level too low Add washer fluid as soon as possible,
page 62.
Lights up in red:
Service due Arrange a service appointment.
Check service requirements,
page 159.
Lights up in yellow:
The next time that the Start/Stop
button is pressed, the engine starts,
possibly even without a foot on the
brakes or without depressing the
clutch
Remote control malfunctioning or, in
cars with Comfort Access, not
detected The engine cannot be started. Have
the remote control checked, if
necessary.
Remote control battery is discharged Use the remote control for a longer journey or, in cars with Comfort
Access, replace the battery.
Belt tensioners and/ or airbag system
failed Have the system checked immedi-
ately. Fasten the safety belts anyway.
Power steering failed You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Steering response will be
markedly different. Have the system
checked without delay.
12Cause What to do
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Technical dataREFERENCE
205
MINI Convertible
Capacities
CooperCooper SJohn Cooper Works
Curb weight, ready for travel, with all optional extras
>Manual transmission lbs/kg 2,701/1,225 2,811/1,275 2,822/1,280
> Automatic
transmission lbs/kg 2,778/1,260 2,855/1,295 2,866/1,300
Approved gross weight
> Manual transmission lbs/kg 3,560/1,615 3,671/1,665 3,704/1,680
> Automatic
transmission lbs/kg 3,638/1,650 3,737/1,695 3,748/1,700
Approved front axle load
> Manual transmission
> Automatic
transmission lbs/kg 1,863/845 1,951/885 1,973/895
lbs/kg 1,940/880 2,017/915 2,017/915
Approved rear axle load lb s/kg 1,786/810 1,786/810 1,797/815
Cargo area capacity cu ft/ liters6.0-23.3/
170-660 6.0-23.3/
170-660 6.0-23.3/
170-660
US gal/US quartsLitersNotes
Fuel tank 13.2/– approx. 50 Fuel grade: page 141
including reserve of 2.1/– approx. 8
Window washer system incl.
headlamp washer system –/4.8 approx. 4.5 For more details: page 62
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Everything from A to ZREFERENCE
207
Bar, refer to Tow-starting, towing away 179
Base plate for telephone or mobile phone
– refer to Snap-in adapter 136
Battery 175
– disposal 33,176
– jump-starting 177
– temporary power failure 176
Battery renewal
– remote control 33
Being towed 179
Belts, refer to Safety belts 48
Belt tensioner, refer to Safety belts 48
Beverage holders, refer to
Cupholders 101
Black ice, refer to External temperature warning 66
Blower, refer to Air flow rate 95,97
Bluetooth, activating/
deactivating 130
Bottle holders, refer to Cupholders 101
Brake Assist 76
Brake fluid, refer to Service requirements 71
Brake lamps
– replacing bulbs 169
Brake pads, breaking in 106
Brake rotors 108
– brakes 106
– breaking in 106
Brakes
– ABS 76
– breaking in 106
– MINI Maintenance System 159
– parking brake 57
– refer to Braking safely 107
– service requirements 71
Brake system 106
– breaking in 106
– disc brakes 108
– MINI Maintenance System 159 Breakdown service, refer to
Roadside Assistance 177
Breaking in the clutch 106
Break-in period 106
Bulb changing, refer to Lamps and bulbs 166
Button for starting the
engine 55
Buttons on the steering wheel 11
C
California Proposition 65
warning 5
Call ending 134
Calling, refer to Phone numbers, dialing 134
Calling, refer to Telephone 100
Can holders, refer to Cupholders 101
Capacities 205
Car battery, refer to Vehicle battery 175
Car care 161
Care 161
– car-care products 161
– car washes 161
– CD/DVD drives 164
– high-pressure washers 162
– leather 164
– manual washing 162
– upholstery and fabrics 163
– windows 162
– wiper blades 162
Cargo, securing 111
Cargo area 108
– capacity 203
– Comfort Access 32
– emergency operation, see manual unlocking 28
– lamp 92
– opening from outside 28
Cargo area lid, refer to Tailgate 28 Cargo loading
110
– securing cargo 111
– stowing cargo 111
– vehicle 108
Car key, refer to Keys/remote controls 22
Carpets, care 164
Car phone
– installation location, refer to Center armrest 100
– refer to Telephone 100,128
Car radio, refer to Radio 16
Car wash, care 161
Car washes 161
Catalytic converter, refer to Hot exhaust system 107
CD player 121
– changing the track 121
– fast forward/reverse 121
– playing a track 122
– random order 121
– volume 116
Center armrest 100
Ce

nter brake lamp 170
Center console, refer to
Around the center
console 14
Central locking system 23
– Comfort Access 31
– from inside 27
– from outside 23
Changing bulbs 166
Changing wheels 173
Charging the battery 175
Chassis number, refer to Engine compartment 155
Check Control 73
Child restraint fixing system LATCH 52
Child restraint systems 51
Child seats 51
Chrome parts, care 163
Chrome parts, refer to Care 161
Cigarette lighter 101
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REFERENCEEverything from A to Z
208
Cleaning headlamps62
– washer fluid 62
Clock
– setting time 73
– 12 h/24 h mode 70
Closing
– from inside 27
– from outside 23
Clothes hooks 100
Cockpit 10
Cold start, refer to Starting the engine 56
Comfort Access 31
– replacing the battery 33
– what to observe before entering a car wash 32
Comfort area, refer to Around the center console 14
Compartment for remote
control, refer to Ignition
lock 55
Compressed audio files 121
Computer 66
Condensation, refer to When the vehicle is parked 108
Condition Based Service CBS 159
Configuring settings, refer to
Personal Profile 22
Connecting vacuum cleaner,
refer to Connecting electrical
appliances 101,102
Consumption, refer to Average
fuel consumption 66
Control Display
– settings 68
Controls and displays 10
Convenience operation
– windows 24
Convenient access, refer to Comfort Access 31
Convenient start, refer to
Starting the engine 56
Convertible top 34
– manual 39
– mechanical 39 Coolant
158
– checking level 158
– filling 158
– temperature 158
Cooling, maximum 97
Cooling fluid, refer to Coolant 158
Copyright 2
Cornering light, refer to Adaptive Light Control 90
Cruising range 66,67
Cupholders 101
Curb weight, refer to
Weights 203
Current fuel consumption 67
D
Dashboard, refer to Cockpit
10
Dashboard instruments, refer to Displays 12
Dashboard lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting 92
Data 196
– capacities 205
– dimensions 197
– engine 196
– weights 203
Data memory 160
Date
– setting 73
Daytime running lights 89
DBC Dynamic Brake Control,
refer to Brake Assist 76
Deactivating front passenger airbags 85
Deadlocking, refer to Locking 25
Defect
– door lock 27
– fuel filler flap 140
Defogging windows 96,98
Defrosting windows 96,98
Defrosting windows and removing condensation
– air conditioner 96
– automatic climate control 98Defrosting windshield, refer to
Defrosting windows 96,98
Defrost positi on, refer to
Defrosting windows 96,98
Differential, breaking in 106
Digital radio, refer to HD Radio 119
Dimensions 197
Dipstick, engine oil 156
Directional indicators, refer to
Turn signals 60
Displacement, refer to Engine data 196
Display lighting, refer to Instrument lighting 92
Displays 12
– care 164
– instrument panel 12
Displays and controls 10
Disposal
– of coolant 158
– remote control battery 33
– vehicle battery 176
Distance remaining to service, refer to Service
requirements 71
Distance warning, refer
to Park
Distance Control PDC 75
Door key, refer to Integrated key/remote control 22
Door lock 26
Door lock, confirmation signals 25
Doors, manual operation 27
DOT Quality Grades 151
Drinks holders, refer to
Cupholders 101
Drive-off assistant, refer to Hill Assist 78
Driving dynamics control, refer to Sport button 78
Driving lamps, refer to Parking
lamps/low beams 88
Driving notes 106
Driving off on inclines, refer to
Hill Assist 78
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