Giving and receiving assistance – Mini 2009 Cooper Convertible User Manual

Page 138

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Giving and receiving assistance

136

Access to screw thread

Push out the cover of the towing eye out of the
recess in the bumper.

Front

Rear

Being towed

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

43

, 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.

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There is no power assist while the engine is off.
Thus, braking 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.

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Towing with a tow bar

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

be impossible to maintain control.

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The tow fittings used should be on the same side
on both vehicles. Should it prove impossible to
avoid mounting the tow bar at an angle, please
observe the following:

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Clearance and maneuvering capability will
be sharply limited during cornering.

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The tow bar will generate lateral forces if it is
attached offset.

Attach the tow bar to the tow fittings only,
as attaching it to other parts of the vehicle

could result in damage.

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Towing with a tow rope

When starting off in the towing vehicle, make
sure that the tow rope is taut.

To avoid jerking and the associated
stresses on vehicle components when

towing, always use nylon ropes or nylon straps.
Attach the tow rope to the tow fittings only, as
attaching it to other parts of the vehicle could
result in damage.

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Towing with a tow truck

Have the MINI or MINI Convertible transported
by a tow truck with a so-called lift sling or on a
flatbed.

Do not lift the vehicle by a tow fitting or
body and chassis parts, otherwise damage

may result.

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Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 601 570 - © 11/08 BMW AG

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