Towing Information: Service and Repair

TOW-STARTING AND TOWING





For towing, use either a tow bar or a nylon rope or nylon belts that prevent sudden jerking movements.

Tow fitting

The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains in the vehicle at all times. This fitting is designed for installation in the tow sockets located at the front and rear of the vehicle. It is intended for towing on paved road surfaces only.

Access to tow sockets
Use a suitable object (e.g. credit card) to press out the covers from the recess.

Caution! Screw the tow fitting in until it bottoms firmly. lfthis is not done, the threads could be damaged. Never attach tie-down hooks, chains, straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control arms, or any other part of the vehicle suspension, as severe damage to these components will occur, leading to possible accidents.

Towbars

If the tow fittings ofthe two vehicles are not directly opposite one another, please note:
- Clearance and maneuvering capability will be strictly limited in corners.
- The inclination of the tow bar generates lateral force (critical above all if the road surface is slippery).

Caution! Do not tow a vehicle that is heavier than the towing vehicle, otherwise it will no longer be possible to control vehicle response.


Tow-starting

Caution! On vehicles with automatic transmissions, it is not permitted to start the engine by tow-starting. The transmission could be damaged.

Only tow-start vehicles with a catalytic converter when the engine is cold, otherwise, unburned fuel in the catalytic converter could catch fire. It is better to use jumper cables.

1. Switch on the hazard warning system (comply with national regulations).
2. Ignition key in position 2.
3. Engage 3rd gear.
4. Tow-start with the clutch pedal pressed.
5. Slowly release the clutch.
6. When the engine starts, press the clutch pedal again.
7. Switch off the hazard warning system.
Have the cause of the starting problems rectified by your MINI center.

Towing

Caution! Only tow vehicles with automatic transmission with the front wheels raised or on a special transport vehicle, otherwise the transmission can be damaged.

1 Ignition key in position 1:
The brake lamps, turn signals, horn and windshield wipers can be operated
2 Switch on the hazard warning system (comply with national regulations).

If the electrical system has failed, place some kind ofwarningon the towed vehicle, e.g. a sign or warning triangle in the rear window.

Caution! Ensure that ifthe electrical system has failed the ignition key is in position 1, otherwise the steering lock could engage and make it impossible to steer the vehicle.

When the engine is not running, there is no power-assist. This means that greater effort is required for braking and steering.




Towing with a commercial tow truck

- Do not tow with sling-type equipment.
- Use a wheel-lift or flatbed carrier.
- Please comply with applicable towing laws.

Caution! Never allow passengers to ride in a towed vehicle for any reason.