Get Operation, care, maintenance Guide for Mini One 2 Door First Generation (2001-2006)

OVERVIEW

CONTROLS

OPERATION, CARE, MAINTENANCE

OWNER SERVICE PROCEDURES

INDEX

TECHNICAL DATA

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

Operation

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

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:

Engine

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

Constantly vary both vehicle and engine

speed during these initial miles while

remembering not to exceed 4,500 rpm /

4500/min and/or vehicle speeds of over

95 mph / 150 km/h.

Absolutely avoid using the full-throttle or

kickdown position for the accelerator.

After 1,250 miles / 2,000 km, the rpm and

vehicle speed can be increased gradually.

You should also comply with these break-in

procedures if the engine has to be replaced

at a later point.

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.

Brake system

Approx. 300 miles / 500 km must be driven

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.

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.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

GENERAL DRIVING NOTES

Parking the vehicle

Condensation forms in the air conditioner

system during operation, and then exits

under the vehicle. Traces of condensed

water on the ground are therefore normal.

Brakes

Do not rest your foot on the brake

pedal while driving. Even light but

consistent pedal pressure can lead to high

temperatures, brake wear and possibly

even brake failure.

Hydroplaning

When driving on wet or slushy roads,

reduce road speed. If you do not, a

wedge of water can form between tires and

road surface. This phenomenon is charac-

terized by a partial or complete loss of con-

tact between the tires and the road surface.

The ultimate results are loss of steering and

braking control.

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.

Clothes hooks

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 so,

they could cause personal injury during

braking or evasive maneuvers.

High temperatures

High temperatures occur in any vehi-

cle equipped with a catalytic con-

verter. Do not remove the heat protection

plates fitted in the area of the exhaust sys-

tem and do not apply body-cavity pro-

tectant to this area. When driving, standing

at idle or parking the vehicle, take care to

avoid contact between the hot exhaust sys-

tem and flammable materials – e.g. hay,

leaves, grass, etc. Such contact could lead

to a fire resulting in serious personal injury

and property damage.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

REFUELING

Always switch off the engine before

refueling. If you do not, fuel cannot

be filled into the tank and the "Service

Engine Soon" lamp may come on.

1. Open the fuel filler door

2. Turn the filler cap counterclockwise

3. Put the filler cap in the bracket attached

to the fuel filler door.

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.

Simple and environmentally friendly

Always observe all safety precautions

posted at the service station when

handling fuel.

When refueling, insert the filler nozzle

completely into the filler pipe. Pulling the

nozzle out of the pipe during refueling

>results in premature pump shutoff

>will reduce the effect of the fuel vapor

recovery system on the pump.

As long as the filler nozzle is used properly,

the fuel tank is full whenever the nozzle

shuts off the first time.

Close tank:

1. Put on filler cap

2. Turn filler cap clockwise until it clicks

3. Close fuel filler door.

Fuel tank capacity:

approx. 13.2 gallons / 50 liters, of which

approx. 2.1 gallons / 8 liters are reserve

capacity.

Close the filler cap carefully after

refueling until a click is heard.

While closing, be sure not to squeeze the

strap which is fastened to the filler cap.

US models only:

A loose or missing cap will activate the

message CHECK FILLER CAP in the Check

Control

* or the Check Filler Cap lamp*.

Do not drive until the fuel tank is

totally empty, otherwise engine oper-

ations are not guaranteed and damage

could occur.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

FUEL SPECIFICATIONS ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)

The engine uses lead-free gasoline only.

Required fuel:

>Premium Unleaded Gasoline,

min. 91 AKI.

AKI = Anti Knock Index.

Do not use leaded fuels. The use of

leaded fuels will cause permanent

damage to the emissions-control system's

oxygen sensor and the catalytic con-

verter.

The concept

The ABS keeps the wheels from locking

while braking, thereby enhancing active

driving safety.

ABS also includes Electronic Brake Force

Distribution (EBD).

Braking with ABS

To achieve optimal performance from ABS

when reacting to critical situations, you

should 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.

Pulsation of the brake pedal in conjunction

with the sound of hydraulic regulation indi-

cates to you that you are driving at the limit

and reminds you to readapt your vehicle's

speed to road surface conditions.

Electronic Brake Force Distribution

(EBD)

The system regulates the brake force distri-

bution between the front and rear axles. In

order to avoid an over-braking of the rear

wheels in certain situations, the EBD per-

manently monitors the slip values and reg-

ulates the slip on the rear axle depending

on that of the front axle.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

BRAKE SYSTEM

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.

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.

Disc brakes

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.

Corrosion on brake rotors is signaled by a

running or pulsation during braking; even

extended subsequent braking will not cure

this phenomenon.

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 rotor and the

brake pads. Then if braking effect is

needed, it is immediately available.

Extended or steep mountain descents

should be driven in the gear or in the driv-

ing position in which only minimal periodic

brake application is required. This helps

avoid placing excessive loads on the brake

system. Stay within the allowable speed

range, refer to page

58.

Do not coast with the clutch pressed

or with the transmission or selector

lever in Neutral. Do not coast with the

engine switched off. The engine provides

no braking effect when the transmission is

in Neutral, and there is no power-assist for

braking when the engine is switched off.

Brake pads

For your own safety: use brake pads

which the manufacturer of your MINI

has approved for your particular vehicle

model. The manufacturer of your MINI can-

not 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.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE

Information for your safety

The factory-approved radial tires are

matched to the vehicle and have been

selected to provide optimum safety and

driving comfort if used properly.

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

also driving comfort and – above all else –

driving safety that depend on the condition

of the tires and the maintenance of the

specified tire pressure.

Incorrect inflation pressure is a frequent

cause of tire damage. It also significantly

influences the roadholding ability of your

MINI.

Check tire inflation pressures regu-

larly – at least every two weeks and

before beginning a longer trip. Failure to

observe these precautions can result in

incorrect tire pressures, which cause unsta-

ble handling response as well as tire dam-

age, and can ultimately lead to an accident.

Also check the inflation pressure on the

space-saver spare tire.

Comply with tire approval specifications

Tire pressures given are valid for tire sizes

and makes recommended by the manufac-

turer of your MINI, which can be asked for

from your MINI Dealer.

Inflation pressures are on a sticker attached

to the B-pillar and visible with the driver's

door open.

Checking tire inflation pressures

All pressures are specified in the standard

units of pressure for your country – psi/

kilopascal – and apply to cold tires, i.e. tires

at ambient temperature.

After correcting the tire inflation pressure,

reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor, see

page

64.

Checking the inflation pressure on the

space-saver spare tire

Behind the bumper there is a valve exten-

sion accessible from the outside for check-

ing the inflation pressure.

Run Flat tires

Run Flat tires, available as an optional

extra, consist of self-contained tires and

special rims. The tire reinforcement

ensures that the tire retains residual safety

in the event of pressure drop, and driving

remains possible to a restricted degree. The

vehicle is equipped with a Flat Tire Monitor

which indicates a flat tire.

More information, see pages

64, 116.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE

Model Tires

Pressures specified in psi/kilopascal

MINI COOPER

175/65 R 15 30/210 30/210 35/240 35/240

195/55 R 16

205/45 R 17

30/210 30/210 35/240 35/240

All winter tires 33/230 33/230 38/260 38/260

Space-saver spare tire 61/420 61/420 61/420 61/420

MINI COOPER S

195/55 R 16 30/210 30/210 35/240 35/240

205/45 R 17

195/55 R 16 M+S

205/45 R 17 M+S

33/230 33/230 38/260 38/260

175/60 R 16 M+S 36/250 36/250 41/280 41/280

All-season tires – M+S – should be inflated to the same pressures as summer tires. Figures as stated here apply to the manufacturer’s

approved or recommended tires; your MINI Dealer will be happy to provide information on request.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

TIRE CONDITION TIRE REPLACEMENT

Tire tread/tire damage

Inspect your tires frequently for tread wear,

signs of damage and for foreign objects

lodged in the tread. Check the tread depth.

The tread depth should not fall below

in / 3 mm.

Below

in / 3 mm tread pattern depth,

there is an increased risk of hydroplaning,

even at relatively moderate speeds and

with only small amounts of water on the

road.

Wear indicators in the tread-groove base,

see arrow, are spread around the circum-

ference of the tire and are marked on the

side wall of the tire with TWI – Tread Wear

Indicator. The indicators in the tread indi-

cate at

in / 1.6 mm tread depth that

the legally permitted wear limit has been

reached.

Never continue to drive with a flat,

pressureless tire, except with Run Flat

tires. A pressureless, flat tire greatly

impairs steering and braking response, and

can lead to complete loss of control over

the vehicle. Avoid overloading the vehicle

so that the permitted load on the tires is

not exceeded. Overloading can lead to

overheating and increases the rate at

which damage develops inside the tires.

The ultimate result can assume the form of

a sudden air loss.

Unusual vibrations while driving, caused

for example by driving over a curb or simi-

lar, can indicate wheel or tire damage or

other damage to the vehicle. This is also

true for irregularities in the vehicle's han-

dling characteristics, such as a pronounced

tendency to pull to the left or right. Should

this occur, respond by immediately reduc-

ing your speed. Proceed carefully to the

nearest MINI Dealer or professional tire

center, or have the vehicle towed there to

have its wheels and/or tires inspected or

controlled. Tire damage – up to and includ-

ing blowouts – can endanger the lives of

both the vehicle occupants and other road

users.

To maintain good handling and vehicle

response, use only tires of a single tread

configuration from a single manufacturer.

The manufacturer of your MINI tests and

approves wheel and tire combinations.

Do not use retreaded tires, since driv-

ing safety may be impaired. 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.

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.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

TIRE REPLACEMENT

Tread wear

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.

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 govern-

ment test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.

A tire marked C may have poor traction per-

formance.

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.

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 con-

trolled conditions on a specified indoor lab-

oratory test wheel.

Sustained high temperature can cause the

material of the tire to degenerate and

reduce tire life, and excessive temperature

can lead to a sudden flat tire. The grade C

corresponds to a level of performance

which all passenger car tires must meet

under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent

higher levels of performance on the labora-

tory test wheel than the minimum required

by law.

The temperature grade for this tire is

established for a tire that is properly

inflated and not overloaded. Excessive

speed, underinflation, or excessive loading,

either separately or in combination, can

cause heat buildup and possible tire fai-

lure.

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 age

The date on which the tire was manufac-

tured is indicated by the code on the side-

wall:

DOT ... 1202 indicates that the tire was

manufactured in Week 12 of the year 2002.

The manufacturer of your MINI recom-

mends replacing all tires – including the

space-saver tire, regardless of actual wear –

after 6 years at the latest.

Run Flat tires

For replacement, use only Run Flat

tires, as in the event of a flat tire

there is no space-saver spare tire.

You will recognize Run Flat tires by a circu-

lar symbol containing the letters RSC on

the side of the tire, see pages

85, 116.<

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

WHEEL AND TIRE COMBINATIONS WINTER TIRES

The right choice

The factory-approved normal and Run Flat

tires are matched to your vehicle and have

been selected to provide optimum safety

and driving comfort if used properly.

The manufacturer of your MINI rec-

ommends never mounting wheels

and tires that have not been specifically

approved by the manufacturer for use on

your particular model. Although other

wheels and tires may theoretically have the

same dimensions, variations in factors such

as manufacturing tolerances can result in

contact between tire and bodywork, ulti-

mately leading to serious accidents. The

manufacturer of your MINI cannot evaluate

non-approved wheels and tires to deter-

mine if they are suited for use, and there-

fore cannot ensure the operating safety of

the vehicle if they are fitted.

The manufacturer of your MINI has tested

certain tire brands in each size, categorized

them as safe for use on the road, and

approved them. Contact your MINI Dealer

for more details.

The correct wheel and tire combina-

tion affects various systems that

would otherwise be impaired, e.g. ABS,

ASC+T and DSC. For this reason, use only

tires of the same manufacture and tread

configuration. In the event of a flat tire, for

example, remount the approved wheel and

tire combination as soon as possible.

Storage

Store tires in a cool, dry place, protecting

them against light whenever possible.

Protect the tires against contact with oil,

grease and fuel.

Choosing the right tire

The manufacturer of your MINI recom-

mends winter tires – M+S radial tires – for

driving in adverse winter road conditions.

While so-called all-season tires with M+S

designation provide better winter traction

than summer tires with the load ratings S,

T, H, V, W, they do not achieve the perfor-

mance of winter tires.

In the interest of safe tracking and steering

response, install winter tires made by the

same manufacturer having the same tread

configuration on all four wheels.

Before purchasing winter tires, check

whether your MINI is fitted with Run Flat

tires. You will recognize Run Flat tires by a

circular symbol containing the letters RSC

on the side of the tire, see page

116. In this

case, use only Run Flat tires, as in the event

of a flat tire there is no space-saver spare

tire.

Any MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you

on the selection of the right winter tires for

the relevant operating conditions.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

WINTER TIRES SNOW CHAINS*

Observing speeds

Never exceed the maximum speed

for which the tires are rated.

Unprofessional attempts by laymen to ser-

vice tires can lead to damage and accidents.

Have this work performed by skilled profes-

sionals only. Your MINI Dealer will be glad

to assist you with both their expertise and

the proper equipment for your vehicle.

Tire condition, tire inflation pressure

Below a tread depth of

in /

4 mm, winter tires display a percepti-

ble decrease in their ability to cope with

winter driving conditions, and should be

replaced in the interest of safety.

Comply with the specified tire inflation

pressures and be sure to have the wheel

and tire assemblies balanced every time

you change the tires.

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 these fine-link snow

chains only. Their use is only permitted in

pairs on the front wheels on winter tires of

the following type:

175/65 R 15.

When fitting, comply with the manufac-

turer's instructions. With chains, do not

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

After fitting the snow chains, do not

activate the Flat Tire Monitor.

When driving with snow chains, it can be

helpful to switch off the ASC+T or DSC for a

brief period, see pages

62, 63.<

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

BONNET

Do not attempt to service your vehi-

cle if you do not have the required

technical background. Before working in

the engine compartment, switch off the

engine and allow it to cool down. Before

working on the electrical system, always

disconnect the battery first. For all work on

the vehicle, comply with the appropriate

information and instructions. Failure to

work in an informed, professional manner

when servicing components and materials

constitutes a safety hazard for vehicle

occupants and other road users. If you are

not familiar with the guidelines, please

have the operations performed by your

MINI Dealer.

To unlock

Pull the lever in the right door area beneath

the instrument panel.

To open

1. Reach under the bonnet

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, be sure that the

travel path of the bonnet is clear

when it is closed, as with all closing proce-

dures.

If it is determined that the bonnet is not

completely closed while driving, stop

immediately and close it securely, see also

page

16.<

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

ENGINE COMPARTMENT – MINI COOPER

1 Reservoir for windshield washer

system 94

2 Coolant expansion tank 96

3 Engine oil filler neck 95

4 Battery 122

5 Brake fluid reservoir 97

6 Reservoir for headlamp cleaning

system 94

7 Engine oil dipstick 94

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

ENGINE COMPARTMENT – MINI COOPER S

1 Reservoir for windshield washer

system 94

2 Coolant expansion tank 96

3 Engine oil filler neck 95

4 Auxiliary terminal for jump-

starting 124

5 Brake fluid reservoir 97

6 Reservoir for headlamp cleaning

system 94

7 Engine oil dipstick 94

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

WASHER FLUID ENGINE OIL

Headlamp* and windshield washer

systems

The capacity of the headlamp washer sys-

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

the windshield washer system approx.

2.1 quarts / 2.0 liters.

Fill with water and – if required – with anti-

freeze, according to manufacturer's recom-

mendations.

We recommend that you mix the

washer fluid before adding it to the

reservoir.

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 for use provided on the

container.

The illustration shows as an example the

dipstick of the MINI COOPER.

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.

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.

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OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

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.

Adding engine oil

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.

That is also valid for the Continuously Vari-

able automatic Transmission (CVT), the

gear box and the power assisted steering.

The manufacturer of your MINI recom-

mends that you have the oil changed at

your MINI Dealer.

Continuous exposure to used oil has

caused cancer in laboratory testing.

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.

Comply with the applicable environ-

mental laws regulating the disposal

of used oil.<

Specified engine oils

The quality of the engine oil selected has

critical significance for the operation and

service life of an engine. Based on extensive

testing, the manufacturer of your MINI

approves only certain grades of engine oil.

Use only approved MINI High Performance

Synthetic 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.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 156 890 - © 09/02 BMW AG

ENGINE OIL COOLANT

Ask your authorized MINI Dealer for

details concerning the specific MINI

High Performance Synthetic Oil or syn-

thetic oils which have been approved.

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.

Approved oils are in SAE classes

5W-40 and 5W-30.

These oils can be used at all ambient tem-

peratures.

Do not add coolant to the cooling sys-

tem when the engine is hot. Escaping

coolant can cause burns.

Antifreeze and anti-corrosion agents are

hazardous to health. Always store these

agents in tightly-closed original containers

kept well away from the reach of children.

Antifreeze and anti-corrosion agents are

flammable. Therefore, do not spill them

over hot engine parts; otherwise they may

ignite and cause burns. Always observe the

instructions for use provided on the con-

tainers.

Comply with the applicable environ-

mental laws regulating the disposal

of antifreeze and anti-corrosion agents.<

The illustration shows as an example the

coolant tank on the MINI COOPER.

Checking coolant level

Correct coolant level with cold engine –

approx. 68 7 / 20 6:

Up to the MAX mark of the transparent

expansion tank.

Only open the cap of the expansion

tank when the engine has cooled

down. The needle on the coolant tempera-

ture gauge in the instrument cluster must

be no higher than in the first quarter, oth-

erwise there is a danger of scalding.

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OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

COOLANT BRAKE FLUID

To add coolant

MINI COOPER:

1. Slowly open the cap by pulling at the tab

to allow accumulated pressure to

escape.

2. Pull open the cap completely.

3. If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant

until the correct level is reached – do not

overfill.

MINI COOPER S:

1. Open the cap by turning it slightly coun-

terclockwise to allow accumulated pres-

sure to escape.

2. Unscrew and open the cap completely.

3. If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant

until the correct level is reached – do not

overfill.

The coolant is made up of water and an

antifreeze with corrosion resistance. The

mixture ratio of 50 to 50 must be kept the

entire year due to the required anti-corro-

sion property. No other additives are

required.

Replace the coolant every three years.

Warning lamp

If the brake warning lamp comes

on with the parking brake released:

The brake fluid level is too low, see

page

15.

Brake warning lamp for Canadian

models.

Adding brake fluid

To add brake fluid or to determine and cor-

rect the cause of brake fluid loss, consult

your MINI Dealer. Your MINI Dealer is famil-

iar with the specifications for factory-

approved brake fluids – DOT 4.

Brake fluid loss may result in extended

brake pedal travel. If this occurs, refer to

the information on page

84.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is, it

absorbs moisture from the air over

time.

In order to ensure the brake system's safety

and reliability, have the brake fluid

changed every two years by a MINI Dealer,

see also the Service and Warranty Informa-

tion Booklet for US models or the Warranty

and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian

models. Brake fluid is toxic and also dam-

ages vehicle paintwork. Always store brake

fluid in tightly-closed original containers

kept well away from the reach of children.

Do not spill the brake fluid and do not fill

the brake fluid reservoir beyond the MAX

mark. The brake fluid could ignite upon

contact with hot engine parts and cause

serious burns.

Comply with the applicable environ-

mental laws regulating the disposal

of brake fluid.<

MINI MAINTENANCE SYSTEM

The MINI Maintenance System has been

designed as a reliable means of providing

maximum driving and operating safety –

and as cost-effective for you as possible.

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.

Service Interval Display

While conventional systems specify main-

tenance according to fixed distances

driven, the MINI Maintenance System takes

account of the operating conditions of the

vehicle, for distances can be driven in many

different ways:

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.

The condition-based MINI Maintenance

System includes the Engine Oil Service and

Inspections I and II.

Determining the maintenance intervals

according to the actual use of the vehicle

covers every kind of operating situation.

People who drive very little – 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.

For more information on the service inter-

val display, see page

60.

Service and Warranty Information

Booklet for US models, Warranty and

Service Guide Booklet for Canadian

models

For additional information on maintenance

intervals and procedures, please refer to

the Service and Warranty Information

Booklet for US models or the Warranty and

Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models.

As a precaution against rust, it is advisable

to have the body checked for damage from

rocks or gravel at the same time, depending

upon operating conditions.

Have your vehicle's maintenance and

repairs performed at your MINI

Dealer. Be sure that all maintenance work

is confirmed 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. They are also a requirement

for warranty claims.

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE

Suitable car-care products

Use the cleaning and car-care prod-

ucts available at your MINI Dealer.

Washing your vehicle

You can wash your new MINI from the out-

set in automatic car washes. Preference

should be for cloth car washes. If, due to

lack of availability, brush car washes must

be used, modern systems with soft brushes

should be given preference.

When using steam cleaners or high-

pressure cleaners, maintain sufficient

distance to the vehicle and do not exceed a

maximum temperature of 140 7 / 60 6.

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-

nents can lead to damage over the long

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 cor-

rode.

Switch the rain sensor off when pass-

ing through an automatic car wash,

see page 54. Failure to do so could result in

damage caused by undesired wiper activa-

tion.

Rod antenna

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.

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.

Vehicle paintwork

Regular care contributes greatly to driving

safety and value retention.

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.

Care of upholstery

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.

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.

100

CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE

Care of special parts

>Light-alloy wheels*:

Use wheel cleaner especially during the

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

>Chrome parts

* such as cooler grille, door

handles, etc.:

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

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 instrument cluster, 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-

ner, heavy-duty grease remover, fuel or

similar

>Wood paneling

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.

101

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE VEHICLE IMMOBILIZATION

Leather care

The leather* used by the manufacturer of

your MINI is a high-quality natural product

processed using state-of-the-art methods,

and it will retain its quality level for many

years if cared for appropriately.

Regular cleaning and care are necessary, as

dust and road dirt scratch in pores and

creases and lead to heavy wear as well as

premature brittleness of the leather sur-

face.

This is why you should use a cloth or vac-

uum cleaner to remove dust from the

leather on a regular basis.

Since dirt and oil slowly destroy the protec-

tive layer of the leather, a treatment with a

leather care product is necessary twice a

year. This preserves the quality of the

leather and prevents electrostatic charging.

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.

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.

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.

103

OVERVIEWREPAIRS OPERATION CONTROLSDATAINDEX

TECHNICAL MODIFICATIONS CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING

Any MINI Dealer will be glad to inform you

of the advisability, legal regulations and

factory recommendations for technical

modifications to the vehicle.

To do so, they require the vehicle identifica-

tion number from your vehicle documents.

California laws require us to state the fol-

lowing warning:

Engine exhaust, some of its constitu-

ents, and certain vehicle components

contain or emit chemicals known to the

State of California to cause cancer and birth

defects and reproductive harm. In addition,

certain fluids contained in vehicles and cer-

tain products of component wear contain

or emit chemicals known to the State of

California to cause cancer and birth defects

or other reproductive harm.

Battery posts, terminals and related acces-

sories contain lead and lead compounds.

Wash your hands after handling.

Used engine oil contains chemicals that

have caused cancer in laboratory animals.

Always protect your skin by washing thor-

oughly with soap and water.

Operation, care, maintenance for Your Mini One 2 Door First Generation (2001-2006)

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