Mini Cooper

Refueling

Vehicle features and options: This chapter describes all standard, country-specific, and optional features offered with the series. It also describes features that may not be available in your vehicle due to selected options or country versions. This applies to safety-related functions and systems. When using these functions and systems, the applicable laws and regulations must be observed.

General information

Follow the fuel recommendation prior to refueling.

Safety information

NOTE: With a driving range of less than 30 miles/50 km the engine may no longer have sufficient fuel. Engine functions are not ensured anymore. There is a risk of damage to property. Refuel promptly.

Fuel cap

Opening
  1. Grasp the fuel filler flap at the rear edge and open it.
  2. Turn the fuel cap counterclockwise.
  3. Place the fuel cap in the bracket attached to the fuel filler flap.
Closing

WARNING: The retaining strap of the fuel cap can be jammed and crushed during closing. Fuel or fuel vapors can escape, causing risk of injury or damage. Ensure the retaining strap is not jammed.

  1. Fit the cap and turn it clockwise until you hear a click.
  2. Close the fuel filler flap.
Manually unlocking fuel filler flap

In case of an electrical malfunction, have the fuel filler flap unlocked by a dealer’s service center or another qualified repair shop.

Follow the following when refueling

Insert the filler nozzle completely into the filler pipe. Lifting up the fuel pump nozzle during refueling may cause premature shut-off and reduced return of fuel vapors. The fuel tank is full when the filler nozzle clicks off. Follow safety regulations posted at the gas station.

Safety information

NOTE: Fuels are toxic and aggressive. Overfilling can damage the fuel system, painted surfaces, and the environment. Avoid overfilling.

Fuel

Fuel recommendation

Depending on the region, many gas stations sell fuel customized to winter or summer conditions. Winter fuel can help make a cold start easier.

Gasoline

Use sulfur-free or very low sulfur content fuel for best efficiency. Fuels marked with metal must not be used. Ethanol content should be max 25% (E10 or E25). Quality standards:

  • US: ASTM 4806–xx
  • CAN: CGSB-3.511–xx

NOTE: Wrong fuel can permanently damage the catalytic converter. Do not use leaded gasoline, metallic additives, or fuels above recommended ethanol content.

CAUTION: Poor-quality fuels may cause engine deposits, drivability issues, starting/stalling problems, and engine damage. Use high-quality fuel and Top Tier retailers.

Recommended fuel grade
  • MINI: AKI 91
  • John Cooper Works: AKI 93
Minimum fuel grade
  • MINI: AKI 89
  • John Cooper Works: AKI 91

Wheels and tires

Tire inflation pressure

The tire characteristics and inflation pressure affect tire life, road safety, driving comfort, and fuel consumption.

Safety information

WARNING: Tires with too low pressure may overheat and sustain damage, affecting handling and causing risk of accident. Check pressure regularly.

Checking the tire inflation pressure

Only check cold tires (vehicle hasn’t moved more than 2 km or at least 2 hours after a trip). Determine intended tire pressure, check all four tires, correct if necessary, and ensure valve caps are in place.

Tire inflation pressures up to 100 mph / 160 km/h

Refer to tire pressure tables for your model and tire type. Adjust as necessary. Do not exceed the recommended speed.

Model Tire Size Pressure bar/PSI Pressure cold tires bar/PSI
3-door COOPER 175/60 R 16 86 H 2.4 / 35 2.4 / 35
Emergency wheel T 115/70 R 15 90 M Speed up to 50 mph / 80 km/h 4.2 / 60

Tire identification marks

Example: 205/45 R 17 84 V

  • 205: nominal width in mm
  • 45: aspect ratio in %
  • R: radial tire code
  • 17: rim diameter in inches
  • 84: load rating
  • V: speed rating

Maximum tire load

Check the tire sidewall and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) label on the driver’s door pillar. Divide tire load by 1.1 to ensure safety.

Speed letter

  • Q = up to 100 mph/160 km/h
  • R = 106 mph/170 km/h
  • S = up to 112 mph/180 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
  • Y = up to 186 mph/300 km/h

Tire age

Replace tires at least every 6 years. Manufacture date can be found on the tire's sidewall (e.g., DOT … 3817 = 38th week, 2017).

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Grades on tire sidewall:

  • Treadwear: comparative wear rating
  • Traction: AA, A, B, C – braking on wet pavement
  • Temperature: A, B, C – heat resistance and dissipation

RSC – Run-flat tires

Labeled with circular RSC symbol on the sidewall.

M+S

Winter and all-season tires for better cold weather performance.

Tire tread

Summer tires: minimum 3 mm / 0.12 in. Winter tires: minimum 4 mm / 0.16 in.

Wear indicators are marked TWI on sidewall.

Tire damage

Inspect tires regularly for damage, foreign objects, and tread wear. Low-profile tires are more susceptible to damage from road debris, curbs, and obstacles.

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