Tow-starting, towing away – Mini 2008 Cooper User Manual

Page 131

129

Tow-starting, towing
away

Observe the applicable laws and regula-
tions for tow-starting and towing vehi-

cles.

Do not transport any passengers other
than the driver in a vehicle that is being

towed.

Using a tow fitting

The screw-in tow fitting must always be carried
in the car. It can be screwed in at the front or
rear of the MINI.
It is stored in the onboard tool kit in the cargo
bay underneath the cover on the right-hand
side, page

114

Use only the tow fitting provided with the
vehicle and screw it all the way in. Use the

tow fitting for towing on paved roads only. Avoid
lateral loading of the tow fitting, e.g. do not lift
the vehicle by the tow fitting. Otherwise the tow
fitting and the vehicle could be damaged.

Access to screw thread

Push out the rectangular cover panel in the
bumper at the recesses.

Front

Rear

Being towed

Make sure that the ignition is switched on,
refer to page

, otherwise the low

beams, tail lamps, turn signal indicators and
windshield wipers may be unavailable. Do not
tow the vehicle with just the rear axle raised, as
this would allow the steering to turn. There is no
power assist while the engine is off. Thus, brak-
ing and steering will require increased effort.

Switch on the hazard warning flashers, depend-
ing on local regulations.

Manual transmission

Gearshift lever in neutral position.

Automatic transmission

Tow vehicles with automatic transmission
only with a tow truck or with the front

wheels lifted; otherwise the transmission can be
damaged.

Towing with a tow bar

The towing vehicle must not be lighter
than the towed vehicle, otherwise it may

be impossible to maintain control.