Get OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE Guide for Mini Cooper 2 Door First Generation (2001-2005)

OVERVIEW

CONTROLS

OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE

OWNER SERVICE PROCEDURES

TECHNICAL DATA

INDEX

Operation

91

BREAK-IN PROCEDURES

To ensure that your vehicle provides maxi-

mum economy throughout a long service

life, we request that you comply with the

following information:

Tires

Due to technical factors associated with

their manufacture, tires do not achieve

their full traction potential until after an

initial break-in period. Therefore drive care-

fully during the first 200 miles / 300 km.

Engine

Up to 1,250 miles / 2,000 km:

Brake system

Drive at varying engine and road speeds,

but do not exceed the following engine or Approx. 300 miles / 500 km must be driven

road speeds:

before the brake pads and rotors achieve

the optimum pad-surface and wear pat-

terns required for trouble-free operation

and an extended service life.

4,500 rpm or

95 mph / 150 km/h.

Comply with the local speed limits.

Absolutely avoid putting the accelerator in

full-throttle or kickdown position.

Clutch

Roughly 300 miles / 500 km must be driven

before the clutch starts to operate at opti-

mum efficiency. Remember to engage the

clutch carefully during this initial period.

After having driven 1,250 miles / 2,000 km,

engine and road speeds can be gradually

increased.

After a part replacement

You should again comply with these break-

in procedures if parts mentioned above

have to be replaced later in the vehicle's

life.

92

GENERAL DRIVING NOTES

Parking the vehicle

Mobile communications in the vehicle Hot exhaust system

Condensation forms in the air conditioner

system during operation, and then exits

under the vehicle. Traces of condensed

The manufacturer of your MINI

recommends that you do not use

mobile devices, e.g. cellular phones, inside verter. Do not remove the heat protection

High temperatures occur in any vehi-

cle equipped with a catalytic con-

water on the ground are therefore normal. the vehicle without directly connecting

them to an outside antenna. Otherwise,

plates fitted in the area of the exhaust sys-

tem and do not apply body-cavity pro-

interference between the vehicle electron- tectant to this area. When driving, standing

Safe braking

ics and the mobile device cannot be ruled

out. In addition, it is not ensured that the

radiation emitted during mobile transmis- tem and flammable materials, e.g. hay,

sion will be directed outside of the vehi-

cle.<

at idle, and parking the vehicle, take care to

avoid contact between the hot exhaust sys-

Your vehicle is equipped with ABS as a stan-

dard feature. The best way to brake the

vehicle in critical situations requiring brak-

ing is to apply maximum pressure to the

brake pedal: panic stop. Since the vehicle

remains maneuverable, you can still go

around any obstacles with the smallest

possible steering movements.

grass, leaves, etc. Such contact could lead

to a fire resulting in serious personal injury

and property damage.<

Driving through water

Do not drive through water on the

road if it is deeper than 1 ft / 30 cm,

and then only at walking speed at the

most. Otherwise, the vehicle's engine, the

electrical systems and the transmission

may be damaged.<

The pulsation of the brake pedal, together

with the sound of hydraulic regulation,

indicates to you that ABS is actively taking

effect.

Hydroplaning

Clothes hooks

When driving on wet or slushy roads,

reduce road speed. If you do not, a

When suspending clothing from the

hooks, ensure that they will not

obstruct the driver's vision. Do not hang

heavy objects on the hooks. If you do, they

could injure the occupants during braking

or evasive maneuvers.<

wedge of water can form between tires

and road surface. This phenomenon is char-

acterized by a partial or complete loss of

contact between the tires and the road sur-

face. The ultimate results are loss of steer-

ing and braking control.<

93

REFUELING

US models only:

The warning lamp*comes on.

Observe the following when refueling

Always observe all safety precautions

posted at the service station when

handling fuel.<

The gas cap is not correctly closed

or missing. Check if the gas cap is

correctly closed.

When refueling, insert the filler nozzle

completely into the filler pipe. Pulling the

nozzle out of the pipe during refueling:

Fuel tank volume

Approx. 13.2 gallons / 50 liters, of which

approx. 2.1 gallons / 8 liters are reserve

capacity.

>Results in premature pump shutoff

>Will reduce the effect of the fuel vapor

recovery system on the pump.

Do not drive until the fuel tank is

totally empty. Otherwise engine

operations are not guaranteed and damage

could occur.<

Always switch off the engine before

As long as the filler nozzle is used properly,

the fuel tank is full whenever the nozzle

shuts off the first time.

refueling. If you do not, fuel cannot

be filled into the tank and the SERVICE

ENGINE SOON lamp may come on.<

Closing the gas cap

Fuel specification

1. Open the fuel filler door

1. Put on gas cap

2. Turn gas cap clockwise until it clicks

3. Close fuel filler door.

2. Turn the gas cap counterclockwise

3. Put the gas cap in the bracket attached

to the fuel filler door.

The engine uses lead-free gasoline only.

Required fuel

Close the gas cap carefully after

refuelling until a click is heard.

While closing, be sure not to squeeze the

strap which is fastened to the cap.<

Premium Unleaded Gasoline,

Minimum Octane Rating: 91.

Always observe all applicable precau-

tions and regulations when handling

fuels. Never carry spare fuel containers in

your vehicle. Whether empty or full, these

containers can leak, cause an explosion,

and lead to fire in the event of a collision.<

Minimum Octane Rating corresponds to

the Anti Knock Index (AKI) and is deter-

mined according to the so-called (R+M)/2

method.

94

REFUELING

Do not use leaded gasoline, as other-

wise the lambda probe and catalytic

converter will be permanently damaged.<

Use high-quality brands

Field experience has indicated significant

differences in fuel quality: volatility, com-

position, additives, etc., among gasolines

offered for sale in the United States and

Canada. Fuels containing up to and includ-

ing 10% ethanol or other oxygenates with

up to 2.8% oxygen by weight, that is, 15%

MTBE or 3% methanol plus an equivalent

amount of co-solvent, will not void the

applicable warranties with respect to

defects in materials or workmanship.

Manual release with the MINI

Convertible

In the event of an electrical malfunction,

the fuel filler door can be unlocked manu- In the event of an electrical malfunction,

ally.

the fuel filler door can be unlocked manu-

ally.

1. Remove the side trim panel on the left-

hand side of the luggage compartment 1. Remove the cover of the side trim panel

The use of poor-quality fuels may

result in driveability, starting and

stalling problems especially under certain

environmental conditions such as high

ambient temperature and high altitude.

Should you encounter driveability prob-

lems which you suspect could be related to

the fuel you are using, we recommend that

you respond by switching to a recognized

high-quality brand.

2. Pull the white lever toward the rear.

The fuel filler door is released

3. Open the fuel filler door.

on the left-hand side, arrow 1

2. Pull the green strap toward the rear,

arrow 2.

The fuel filler door is released

3. Open the fuel filler door.

Failure to comply with these recommenda-

tions may result in unscheduled mainte-

nance.<

95

BRAKE SYSTEM

It is a good idea to periodically dry the

brakes with a gentle application when driv-

ing in rain and on wet roads.

Monitor traffic conditions to ensure that

this maneuver does not endanger other

road users. The resulting heat dries the

brake rotors and pads. Then if the braking

Do not coast with the clutch pedal

pressed or with the transmission or

Brake fluid level

If the brake fluid level is too low and brake

pedal travel has become longer, there may

be a defect in one of the brake system's

hydraulic circuits.

selector lever in Neutral. Do not coast with

the engine switched off. The engine pro-

vides no braking effect when the transmis-

sion is in Neutral, and there is no power-

assist for braking or steering when the

Proceed to the nearest MINI Dealer.

Higher brake application pressure

may be necessary under these conditions,

there may be a slight pull to one side, and

brake pedal travel may be longer. Please

remember to adapt your driving style

accordingly.<

force is needed, it is immediately available. engine is switched off.

Make sure that there are no floor mats,

floor carpets or other objects in the vicinity

of the brake or accelerator pedal, as the

travel path of the pedals could otherwise

be impeded.<

Driving downhill

To prevent overheating and the

resulting reduced efficiency of the

brake system, drive down extended or

steep mountain gradients in the gear

which requires the least brake applications.

Brake pads

Disc brakes

Otherwise, even light but consistent pedal Brake pad sensors in the left brake pads of

When the vehicle is driven only occasion-

ally, during extended periods when the

vehicle is not used at all, and in operating

conditions where brake applications are

less frequent, there is an increased ten-

dency for corrosion of the brake rotors and

accumulation of contamination on the

brake pads. This occurs because the mini-

mal pressure that must be exerted by the

pads to clean the rotors by brake applica-

tions is not reached.

pressure can lead to high temperatures,

brake wear and possibly even brake fail-

ure.<

the front axle and in the right brake pads of

the rear axle monitor the brake pad condi-

tion. When the brake pads reach the wear

limit, the brake wear warning lights up,

The braking effect of the engine can be fur- refer to page 18.

ther utilized by downshifting, to first gear if

necessary, in the manual mode of the auto-

matic transmission, refer to page 55. This

protects the brakes from excessive loads.

Use brake pads which the manufac-

turer of your MINI has approved for

your particular vehicle model. The manu-

facturer of your MINI cannot evaluate non-

approved brake pads to determine if they

are suitable for use, and therefore cannot

ensure the operating safety of the vehicle

in the event of their use.<

Corrosion on brake rotors is signaled by a

running or pulsation during braking; even

extended subsequent braking will not cure

this phenomenon.

96

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE

Information for your safety

It is not merely the tire's service life, but

also driving safety and driving comfort that

depend on the condition of the tires and

the maintenance of the specified tire pres-

sure.

Check tire inflation pressures regu-

larly and correct them if necessary,

including the space-saver spare tire: at

least twice a month and before long jour-

neys. Failure to observe this precaution can

result in incorrect tire pressures, which

cause unstable handling response as well

as tire damage, and can ultimately lead to

an accident.

Do not drive with deflated, i.e. flat, tires

except if Run Flat tires are fitted. A flat tire

greatly impairs steering and braking

response, and can lead to complete loss of

control over the vehicle.<

Tire inflation pressures for original

tires

Checking the inflation pressure on the

space-saver spare tire

The tire inflation pressures for your stan-

dard tires are shown on the driver's-side

door post, visible when the door is open.

Behind the bumper there is a valve exten-

sion accessible from the outside for check-

ing the inflation pressure.

Tire inflation pressures for other tire

sizes

Tire size

The tire inflation pressures apply to the tire

In the following tire pressure table, all pres- sizes approved and the tire brands recom-

sures are given for the specified tire sizes at mended by the manufacturer of your MINI

ambient temperature.

Checking tire inflation pressures

or MINI Convertible. Your MINI Dealer will

be glad to advise you.

Check the tire inflation pressures only on

cold tires. This means after driving a maxi-

mum of 1.25 miles / 2 km or when the

vehicle has been parked for at least 2 hours.

Warm tires have higher pressures.

After correcting the tire inflation pressure,

reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor, refer to

page 71.

In order to determine the correct

inflation pressures for your tires,

refer to the values for the tire size in ques-

tion.<

97

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE

Model

Tire size

Pressures specified in psi / kPa

All pressure specifications in the table are

indicated in psi / kilopascal with cold tires.

Cold = ambient temperature

175/65 R 15 84 H

175/65 R 15 84 Q M+S

30 / 210

35 / 240

30 / 210

35 / 240

195/55 R 16 87 H

195/55 R 16 87 H M+S

205/45 R 17 84 V

205/45 R 17 84 V M+S

MINI COOPER

175/65 R 15 84 Q M+S

175/60 R 15 82 Q M+S

195/55 R 16 87 Q M+S

205/45 R 17 84 Q M+S

205/40 R 18 82 W

33 / 230

38 / 260

Space-saver spare tire T 115/70 R 15 90 M

61 / 420

30 / 210

61 / 420

30 / 210

61 / 420

35 / 240

61 / 420

35 / 240

195/55 R 16 87 V

195/55 R 16 87 V M+S

205/45 R 17 84 V

205/45 R 17 84 Q M+S

205/45 R 17 84 V M+S

195/55 R 16 87 Q M+S

MINI COOPER S

33 / 230

36 / 250

33 / 230

36 / 250

38 / 260

41 / 280

38 / 260

41 / 280

175/60 R 16 82 Q M+S

205/40 R 18 82 W

More information about permissible loads and weights can be found on pages 143, 144.

98

TIRE CODING

Knowing the tire code on the tire's sidewall DOT code:

DOT quality grades

DOT xxxx xxx 2704 Tread wear

makes it easier for you to choose and iden-

tify the correct tires.

e.g.

Manufacturer's code

Traction AA A B C

Temperature A B C

for tire make

Tire size

Tire size and

tire version

e.g.

205/45 R 17 84 V

All passenger car tires must conform

to Federal Safety Requirements in

addition to these grades.<

Nominal width in mm

Tire age

Cross-sectional

ratio in %

Tire age

Tread wear

Radial belt construction

Rim diameter in inches

The date on which the tire was manufac-

tured is indicated by the code on the side-

wall:

DOT...2704 indicates that the tire was man-

ufactured in Week 27 of the year 2004.

The tread wear grade is a comparative rat-

ing based on the wear rate of the tire when

tested under controlled conditions on a

specified government test course.

For example, a tire graded 150 would wear

one and one-half, 1 γ, 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,

however, and may depart significantly

from the norm due to variations in driving

habits, service practices and differences in

road characteristics and climate.

Load index,

not on ZR tires

Speed code letter,

The manufacturer of your vehicle recom-

mends replacing all tires after 6 years at

the latest, even if a tire service life of

10 years is possible.

in front of the R on ZR tires

Speed code letters:

Q = up to 100 mph / 160 km/h

T = up to 118 mph / 190 km/h

H = up to 131 mph / 210 km/h

V = up to 150 mph / 240 km/h

W= up to 167 mph / 270 km/h

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Quality grades can be found where applica-

ble on the tire sidewall between tread

shoulder and maximum section width.

For example:

Treadwear 200 Traction AA

Temperature A

Tire Identification Number

Tires with DOT codes meet the guidelines

of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

99

TIRE CODING

TIRE CONDITION

Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent Inspect your tires frequently for tread wear,

Traction

higher levels of performance on the labora- signs of damage and for foreign objects

tory test wheel than the minimum required lodged in the tread. Check the tread depth.

by law.

The traction grades, from highest to low-

est, 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 govern-

ment test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.

A tire marked C may have poor traction per-

formance.

Tire tread

The temperature grade for this tire is

established for a tire that is properly

inflated and not overloaded. Excessive

speed, underinflation, or excessive loading,

The tread depth should not fall below

ε in / 3 mm.

Below ε in / 3 mm tread depth, there is a

very high danger of hydroplaning at higher

either separately or in combination, can

speeds even if there is only a small amount

cause heat buildup and possible tire fail-

The traction grade assigned to this

tire is based on straight-ahead brak-

ing traction tests, and does not include

acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or

peak traction characteristics.<

of water on the road.

Below a tread depth of / in / 4 mm, win-

1

ure.<

6

ter tires display a perceptible decrease in

their ability to cope with winter driving

RSC: Run Flat tires

You will recognize Run Flat tires by a circu- conditions, and should be replaced in the

lar symbol containing the letters RSC on

the side of the tire, refer to page 101.

interest of safety.

Temperature

The temperature grades are A, the highest,

B and C, representing the tire's resistance

M+S

to the generation of heat and its ability to Winter and all-season tires.

dissipate heat when tested under con-

trolled conditions on a specified indoor lab- properties than summer tires.

oratory test wheel.

These have better winter performance

Sustained 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 meet

under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

100

TIRE CONDITION

RUN FLAT TIRES*

Wheel/tire damage

Due to low-profile tires, please note

that wheels, tires and suspension

parts are more susceptible to road hazards

and consequential damage.

Unusual vibrations while driving can indi-

cate tire damage or other damage to the

vehicle. This may be caused, for example,

by driving over a curb. This is also true for

abnormalities in the vehicle's handling

characteristics, such as a pronounced ten-

dency to pull to the left or right.

In such situations, reduce your speed

immediately. Drive carefully to the nearest

MINI Dealer or tire dealer, or have the vehi-

cle towed there, if necessary.

Wear indicators in the tread-groove base,

arrow, are spread around the circumfer-

ence of the tire and are marked on the side

wall of the tire with TWI, Tread Wear Indi-

You will recognize Run Flat tires by a circu-

lar symbol containing the letters RSC on

the side of the tire.

Run Flat tires consist of self-contained tires

and special rims. The tire reinforcement

ensures that driving remains possible to a

restricted degree in the event of a pressure

drop or even a flat tire.

cator. The indicators in the tread indicate at

Tire damage, up to and including blowouts,

can endanger the lives of both the vehicle

occupants and other road users.<

1

/

in / 1.6 mm tread depth that the

16

legally permitted wear limit has been

reached.

Continuing driving with a damaged

tire

Depending on the load, you can continue

driving with Run Flat tires at a maximum

speed of 50 mph / 80 km/h.

101

RUN FLAT TIRES*

NEW WHEELS AND TIRES

If there is a total loss of tire inflation pres-

sure, 0 psi / 0 kPa, or obvious tire damage,

you can gauge the mileage for continued

driving on the basis of the following indica-

tions:

Have new wheels and tires mounted

only by a tire specialist. Work that is

improperly carried out could result in con-

sequential damage and pose safety haz-

ards.<

Tire change set

In case of a flat tire, the tire change

set is not needed, since your vehicle

has Run Flat tires.

When changing a tire, always observe the

safety measures and the procedure for

changing tires starting on page 125.<

>With a light load:

Your MINI Dealer will be glad to inform you

about the correct wheel and tire combina-

tion for your vehicle.

Have the wheels balanced after each tire or

wheel replacement.

1 to 2 persons without luggage:

approx. 155 miles / 250 km

>With a medium load:

2 persons, full luggage compartment, or tire change set.

4 persons without luggage:

approx. 90 miles / 150 km.

>With a full load:

4 persons or more, full luggage compart-

ment:

Your vehicle is additionally equipped with a

In the MINI COOPER and MINI COOPER Con-

vertible this is located in the luggage com-

partment under the floor mat.

In the MINI COOPER S and MINI COOPER S

Convertible, the tire change set is located in

a separate bag which is attached to the

lashing eyelets on the luggage compart-

ment floor by means of tie-down straps.

The correct wheel and tire combination is

also important for various systems that

would otherwise be impaired, e.g. ABS or

DSC.

approx. 30 miles / 50 km.

The manufacturer of your vehicle rec-

ommends that you avoid using

Drive cautiously. Do not exceed a

speed of 50 mph / 80 km/h. In case of

tire pressure loss you must expect changes

in vehicle handling such as lower track sta-

bility during braking, longer braking dis-

tances and changes in self-steering proper-

ties when close to the handling limit.

For safety reasons, the manufacturer of

your vehicle recommends not having dam-

aged Run Flat tires repaired. In this case,

consult your MINI dealer.<

retread tires, as this could impair driving

safety. This is due to the possible variations

in casing structures and, in some cases, to

their extreme age, which can lead to a

decrease in their durability.<

102

NEW WHEELS AND TIRES

e.g. on making a corresponding entry in the vice tires can lead to damage and acci-

The correct wheels and tires

vehicle documents.

dents. Have this work performed by skilled

professionals only. The technicans at your

MINI Dealer will be glad to assist you with

the required professional knowledge and

specialized equipment.<

The manufacturer of your vehicle

recommends mounting only wheels The factory-approved radial belt tires are

and tires that it has specifically tested and matched to your vehicle and provide opti-

approved for use on your particular model. mum safety and driving comfort when

Although other wheels and tires may theo- used properly.

retically have the same dimensions, varia-

tions in factors such as manufacturing tol- Run Flat tires:

Storage

erances can result in contact between tire

and bodywork, ultimately leading to seri-

tires, refer to Run Flat tires, please note the

ous accidents. The manufacturer of your

vehicle cannot evaluate non-approved

wheels and tires to determine if they are

suited for use, and therefore cannot ensure

spare wheel is available in the event of a

the operating safety of the vehicle if they

Store tires in a cool, dry place, protecting

them against light whenever possible. Pro-

tect the tires against contact with oil,

grease and fuel. Do not exceed the tire

inflation pressure specified on the tire side-

wall.

If your vehicle is equipped with Run Flat

following: when mounting new tires or

replacing summer tires with winter tires, or

vice versa, use only Run Flat tires since no

flat. The manufacturer of your vehicle will

be glad to advise you.

are fitted.<

To maintain good handling and vehicle

Special characteristics of winter tires

response, use only tires of a single brand

The manufacturer of your vehicle recom-

and tread configuration. In the event of a

mends winter tires for driving in adverse

flat tire, remount the previous wheel and

winter road conditions. While all-season

tire combination as soon as possible.

tires with the M+S designation provide bet-

ter winter traction than summer tires, they

generally do not achieve the full perfor-

mance of winter tires.

Recommended tire sizes and brands:

For each tire size, certain tire brands have

been tested, classified as road safe and

approved by the manufacturer of your

Observing speed ratings:

vehicle. You can find out about these from

Never exceed the maximum speed

a professional tire center, preferably your

for which the winter tires are rated.

MINI Dealer. Observe any local regulations,

Unprofessional attempts by laymen to ser-

103

SNOW CHAINS*

Only certain types of snow chains have

been tested by the manufacturer of your

MINI, classified as road-safe and approved.

Contact your MINI Dealer for more details.

The manufacturer of your MINI recom-

mends that you use only these approved

fine-link snow chains. Their use is only per-

mitted in pairs on the front wheels on win-

ter tires of the following types:

>175/65 R 15 M+S

>175/60 R 16 M+S.

When fitting, comply with the manufac-

turer's instructions. With chains, do not

exceed a speed of 30 mph / 50 km/h.

Do not initialize the Flat Tire Monitor

after attaching snow chains to the

tires.

When driving with snow chains, it can be

helpful to switch off the ASC or DSC for a

brief period, refer to pages 68, 69.<

104

BONNET

Do not attempt to service your vehi-

cle if you do not have the required

technical background. If you are not famil-

iar with the regulations to be observed,

have the necessary work on your vehicle

carried out only by a MINI Dealer or a work-

shop that has specially trained personnel

working in accordance with the specifica-

tions of the MINI manufacturer.

Work that is improperly carried out could

result in consequential damage and pose

safety hazards.<

To unlock

To open

Pull the lever in the right door area beneath 1. Reach under the bonnet

the instrument panel.

2. Pull the release lever

3. Open the bonnet.

To close

Allow the bonnet to fall from a height of

approx. 1 ft / 30 cm.

To avoid injuries, as with all closing

procedures be sure that the travel

path of the bonnet is clear when it is closed.

If it is determined that the bonnet is not

completely closed while driving, stop

immediately and close it securely, also refer

to page 17.<

105

ENGINE COMPARTMENT: MINI COOPER AND MINI COOPER CONVERTIBLE

1 Reservoir for windshield and rear

window* washer system 108

4 Engine oil filler neck 109

5 Battery 132

7 Reservoir for headlamp cleaning

system 108

2 Vehicle identification number

3 Coolant expansion tank 110

8 Engine oil dipstick 108

6 Brake fluid reservoir 111

106

ENGINE COMPARTMENT: MINI COOPER S AND MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE

1 Reservoir for windshield and rear

window* washer system 108

3 Coolant expansion tank 110

4 Engine oil filler neck 109

6 Brake fluid reservoir 111

7 Reservoir for headlamp cleaning

system 108

2 Vehicle identification number

5 Auxiliary terminal for jump-

starting 134

8 Engine oil dipstick 108

107

WASHER FLUID

ENGINE OIL

The oil volume between the two notches –

MIN, MAX – on the dipstick corresponds to

approx. 1.1 quarts / 1 liter. Do not fill

beyond the upper notch on the dipstick.

Excess oil will damage the engine.

Headlamp* and window washer

systems

The illustration shows by way of example

the dipstick of the MINI COOPER and the

MINI COOPER Convertible.

The capacity of the headlamp washer sys-

tem is approx. 2.6 quarts / 2.5 liters, that of

the windshield and rear window washer

system approx. 2.1 quarts / 2.0 liters.

Measuring the oil level

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface

2. Switch the engine off after it has

reached normal operating temperature

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.

Fill with water and, if necessary, with anti-

freeze, according to manufacturer's recom-

mendations.

We recommend that you mix the

washer fluid before filling either res-

ervoir.<

Antifreeze agent for the washer sys-

tems is flammable. Always keep it

well away from sparks and open flames,

and store it in tightly closed containers well

out of the reach of children. Always observe

the instructions on the containers.<

The oil level must be between the two

marks on the dipstick.

As with fuel economy, oil consumption is

directly influenced by your driving style and

vehicle operating conditions.

108

ENGINE OIL

Comply with the applicable environ-

mental laws regulating the disposal

of used oil.<

Viscosities

Viscosity is the oilflow rating as established

in SAE classes.

The choice of the proper SAE class depends

on the climatic conditions in the area

where your MINI is used.

Specified engine oils

The quality of the engine oil selected has

critical significance for the operation and

service life of an engine. Based on exten-

sive testing, the manufacturer of your MINI

approves only certain grades of engine oil.

Approved oils are in SAE classes

5W-40 and 5W-30.<

Use only approved MINI High Performance These oils can be used at all ambient tem-

Synthetic Oil.

peratures.

Adding engine oil

If you are unable to obtain MINI High Per-

formance Synthetic Oil, you can add small

amounts of synthetic oil in between oil

changes. Only use oils with the API SH spec-

ification or higher.

Only top up oil when the oil level has

dropped to just above the lower

notch of the dipstick. However, never allow

the level to drop below the lower notch.<

MINI engines are designed to operate

without oil additives; the use of addi-

tives could lead to damage in some cases.

Continuous exposure to used oil has

caused cancer in laboratory testing.

Ask your authorized MINI Dealer for

details concerning the specific MINI

High Performance Synthetic Oil or syn-

thetic oils which have been approved.<

For this reason, any skin areas that come

into contact with oil should be thoroughly

washed with soap and water.

Always store oil, grease, etc., out of reach of

children. Comply with all warning labels

and information on lubricant containers.<

109

COOLANT

Do not add coolant to the cooling sys-

tem when the engine is hot. Escaping

coolant can cause burns.<

3. The coolant level is correct if it is

between the MIN and MAX markings on

the transparent expansion tank

4. If necessary, slowly add coolant until the

correct level is reached; do not overfill

5. MINI COOPER and MINI COOPER Con-

vertible:

Coolant consists of water and a coolant

additive. Not all commercially available

additives are suitable for your MINI. Your

MINI Dealer knows which additives are

suitable and will be glad to advise you.

Press the cap on and press it down

firmly.

MINI COOPER S and MINI COOPER S Con-

vertible:

Turn the cap back on and tighten it

firmly

Only use suitable additives, other-

wise the engine can be damaged. The

additives are hazardous to your health.<

The illustration shows by way of example

the coolant tank of the MINI COOPER and

the MINI COOPER Convertible.

6. Have the cause of the coolant loss

removed as soon as possible.

Comply with the applicable environ-

mental laws regulating the disposal

of coolant additives.<

Checking coolant level

1. The engine must be at ambient temper-

ature

2. MINI COOPER and MINI COOPER Con-

vertible:

Slowly pull the cap of the expansion

tank by the tab until the excess pressure

can escape. Then remove the cap com-

pletely.

MINI COOPER S and MINI COOPER S Con-

vertible:

Loosen the cap of the expansion tank

slightly by turning it counterclockwise

until the excess pressure can escape.

Then remove the cap completely

110

BRAKE FLUID

contact with hot engine parts and cause

Adding brake fluid

serious burns.<

To add brake fluid or to determine and cor-

rect the cause of brake fluid loss, please

consult your MINI Dealer. Your MINI Dealer

is familiar with the specifications for fac-

tory-approved brake fluids, DOT 4.

Comply with the applicable environ-

mental laws regulating the disposal

of brake fluid.<

Brake fluid loss may result in extended

brake pedal travel. If this occurs, refer to

the information on page 96.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is, it

absorbs moisture from the air over

time.

Warning lamp

The warning lamp comes on

In order to ensure the brake system's safety

and reliability, have the brake fluid

changed every two years by a MINI Dealer

or a workshop that has specially trained

personnel working in accordance with the

specifications of the MINI manufacturer,

also refer to the Service and Warranty

Information Booklet for US models or the

Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for

Canadian models. Brake fluid is toxic and

also damages vehicle paintwork. Always

store brake fluid in tightly closed original

containers kept well away from the reach

of children.

although the parking brake is

released:

The brake fluid level in the reservoir is too

low, refer to page 16. At the same time,

brake pedal travel may become signifi-

cantly longer.

Have the system checked immediately.

Display of the malfunction

described above in Canadian mod-

els.

Do not spill the brake fluid and do not fill

the brake fluid reservoir beyond the MAX

mark. The brake fluid could ignite upon

111

MINI MAINTENANCE SYSTEM

Service interval display

Service and Warranty Information

Booklet for US models, Warranty and

Service Guide Booklet for Canadian

models

While conventional systems specify main-

tenance according to fixed distances

driven, the MINI Maintenance System takes

account of the operating conditions of the For additional information on maintenance

vehicle, for distances can be driven in many intervals and procedures, please refer to

different ways:

the Service and Warranty Information

Booklet for US models or the Warranty and

Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models.

60,000 miles / 100,000 km short distance

operation can not be equated with

60,000 miles / 100,000 km long distance

operation from a maintenance standpoint.

As a precaution against rust, it is advisable

to have the body checked for damage from

rocks or gravel at the same time, depending

The condition-based MINI Maintenance

The MINI maintenance system helps main-

tain your vehicle's road safety and opera-

tional safety.

System includes the Engine Oil Service and upon operating conditions.

Inspections I and II.

The manufacturer of your MINI rec-

Determining the maintenance intervals

according to the actual use of the vehicle

covers every kind of operating situation.

People who drive very little, i.e. much less

than 6,000 miles / 10,000 km per year,

should have the engine oil changed at least

every 2 years since oil deteriorates over

time, regardless of use.

Please bear in mind that regular mainte-

nance is not only necessary for the safety of

your vehicle, but also plays a significant

role in maintaining the resale value of the

vehicle.

ommends having maintenance and

repair work carried out only by a MINI

Dealer or a workshop that has specially

trained personnel working in accordance

with the specifications of the MINI manu-

facturer.

Make sure that maintenance work is con-

firmed with an entry in the Service and

Warranty Information Booklet for

US models or the Warranty and Service

Guide Booklet for Canadian models. These

entries are your proof that the vehicle has

received regular maintenance.<

For more information on the service inter-

val display, refer to page 65.

112

OBD SOCKET

CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE

An illuminated lamp informs you

of the need for service, not of the

need to stop the vehicle.

Suitable car-care products

Use the cleaning and car-care prod-

ucts available at your MINI Dealer.<

However, the system should be checked by

your MINI Dealer at the earliest possible

opportunity.

Washing your vehicle

You can wash your new MINI or MINI Con-

vertible in automatic car washes from the

beginning. Preference should be for cloth

car washes. If, due to lack of availability,

Display of the malfunction

described above in Canadian mod-

els.

Under certain conditions, the indicator will brush car washes must be used, modern

blink or flash. This indicates a rather severe systems with soft brushes should be given

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

preference.

The Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) interface

socket is located on the left of the driver's

side under the instrument panel and under

a cover.

When using steam cleaners or high-

pressure cleaners, maintain sufficient

period of time can seriously damage emis- distance to the vehicle and do not exceed a

The cover has the letters OBD on it.

sion control components, especially the

catalytic converter.

maximum temperature of 1407/ 606. If

the jet is too close or the pressure is too

high, this can lead to damage or initial

damage that can develop into more serious

damage. Water that enters vehicle compo-

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.

When the gas cap is not properly

tightened, the OBD system can

detect the vapor leak and the indicator will nents can lead to damage over the long

light up. If the cap is subsequently tight-

ened, the indicator lamp should go out

within a few days.<

term.

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.

Switch the rain sensor off when passing

through an automatic car wash, refer to

page 59. Failure to do so could result in

113

CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE

damage caused by undesired wiper activa-

Vehicle paintwork

Care of special parts

tion.<

Regular care contributes greatly to driving >Light-alloy wheels*:

safety and value retention.

Use wheel cleaner especially during the

Rod antenna

winter months, but do not use any

aggressive, acidic, strong alkali or rough

cleansers or steam jets above 140 7 /

60 6. Observe the manufacturer's

instructions

Environmental influences varying from one

region to the next can affect the vehicle

paintwork. Please base the frequency and

scope of car care on these various influ-

ences.

If necessary, for example before

entering a car wash or a garage with

elevator ramp, remove the rod antenna.

To do so, grip the rod antenna at the base

and unscrew it from the antenna foot by

turning it to the left.<

>Chrome parts*such as bonnet grill, door

handles, etc.:

Care of upholstery

Especially if exposed to road salt, care-

fully clean these parts with plenty of

water and possibly with a shampoo addi-

tive. For additional treatment, use

chrome polish

>Rubber parts:

Treat only with water or rubber care

products.

Depressions that come about on the uphol-

stery material of the seats in daily use can

be brushed out using a slightly damp brush

against the grain.

Headlamps

When cleaning the headlamps,

please observe the following: do not

rub them dry, and never use abrasives or

strong solvents. Remove dirt and contami-

nation, such as insects, by soaking with

shampoo and then rinsing with plenty of

water. Always use a deicer spray to remove

accumulated ice and snow; never use a

scraper.<

The fact that velour lays down is not a qual-

ity defect, but rather is inevitable in the

case of home textiles or clothing materials.

In the case of strong sunlight and longer

parking periods, cover the seats or all win-

dows to prevent discoloration.

Do not use silicon sprays or other

silicon-containing care products,

otherwise noise and damage could

occur.<

>Plastic parts, imitation leather surfaces,

headliner, lamp glass, covering glass for

the display elements, as well as matt

black molded parts:

Clean with water and, if necessary, plas-

tic care products. Do not dampen seats

and the headliner.

Never use solvents such as lacquer thin-

114

CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE

ner, heavy-duty grease remover, fuel or

similar

ity level for many years if cared for prop-

erly.

You should therefore observe the following

notes in particular:

>Wood paneling*:

Regular cleaning and care are necessary, as >Whenever possible, park your vehicle in

Please clean wood paneling and other

wood parts only with a damp cloth. Dry

off with a soft cloth

>Safety belts:

Only clean using mild soap, leaving the

belts fitted.

Do not dry clean, as the fabric can be

destroyed.

Always roll up safety belts only when

dry.

Dirty safety belts prevent unrolling and

thus negatively affect safety

>Floor carpets and floor mats*:

If heavily soiled, clean using interior

cleaner. Floor mats can be removed to

allow the interior to be cleaned

>Wiper blades:

Clean with soapy water. Replace wiper

blades twice a year, before and after the

cold season. This is particularly impor-

tant on vehicles fitted with a rain sensor.

dust and road dirt scratch in pores and

creases and lead to heavy wear as well as

premature brittleness of the leather and

imitation leather surface.

This is why you should use a cloth or vac-

uum cleaner to remove dust on a regular

basis.

the shade to protect it from intense sun-

light

>Do not fold the convertible top when it is

wet, dirty or frozen; otherwise water

marks, moisture stains and chafing could

result

>If the vehicle is parked in an enclosed

area for a longer period of time, make

sure that there is sufficient ventilation

>Remove bird droppings immediately

because they have corrosive properties.

Since dirt and oil slowly destroy the protec-

tive layer of the leather and imitation

leather, a treatment with a leather care

product is necessary twice a year. This pre-

serves the quality of the leather and pre-

vents electrostatic charging.

Never use spot removers, paint thin-

ner, solvents, cleaning fuel or similar

since these products can destroy the rubber

seals and cause leaks.<

Cleaning agents can contain hazard-

ous or health-damaging substances.

For this reason, always observe the warn-

ings on the package. 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.<

Caring for leather* and imitation

leather

Care of the MINI Convertible's top

The leather and imitation leather used by

the manufacturer of your MINI are high

quality products processed using state-of-

the-art methods and will retain their qual-

The appearance and service life of the con-

vertible top largely depend on the proper

care and operation of the convertible top.

115

CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE

VEHICLE STORAGE

If the convertible top is very dirty, it is rec- Your MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you

ommended that it be cleaned with a spe-

cial convertible top cleaning agent. Your

MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you.

on what is important if the vehicle is to be

decommissioned for longer than three

months.

Clean the convertible top as follows:

>Spray the convertible top with an

approved convertible top cleaning agent

>Then scrub the convertible top with a

wet sponge using circular motions

>Afterward, finish cleaning the vehicle in

a car wash or rinse the convertible top

thoroughly with plenty of water.

After washing the convertible top three to

five times, it should be treated with a

waterproofing agent.

Wind deflector*

>Clean the wind deflector with a soft

sponge and water evenly across the

entire surface so that water marks do

not form

>Do not clean it with a vacuum cleaner or

upholstery brush attachment, otherwise

the net could be damaged.

116

117

118

OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE for Your Mini Cooper 2 Door First Generation (2001-2005)

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