BMW MINI Countryman Cooper, Owner'S Handbook Manual

Page: 173 / 214

Mutual aid
MOBILITY
171
Towing methods
Do not raise the vehicle at the towing eye
or by body or suspension components,
otherwise it could sustain damage. <
With towbar
The towing vehicle must not be lighter
than the towed vehicle, otherwise it may
be impossible to maintain control.
<
The towing eyes of both vehicles should be on
the same side. If it is impossible to avoid attach-
ing the towbar at an angle, note the following:
>
Towbar clearance may be restricted when
cornering.
>
The towbar will generate lateral forces if it is
attached offset.
Only attach the towbar to the towing eyes.
Attaching the towbar to other parts of the
vehicle can result in damage. <
With towrope
Ensure that the towrope is taut when the towing
vehicle moves off.
For towing, use nylon ropes or tapes, as
these will help avoid sudden tensile loads.
Only attach the towrope to the towing eyes.
Attaching the towrope to other parts of the vehi-
cle can result in damage.
<
With tow truck: vehicles without ALL4
four-wheel drive
Transport the MINI Countryman with tow trucks
using a so-called hoisting frame or on a loading
platform.
With tow truck: vehicle with ALL4 four-
wheel drive
Do not tow away a vehicle with ALL4 four-
wheel drive with just the front or rear axle
raised off the ground, otherwise the wheels
could lock and the transfer box be damaged.
<
A loading platform must always be used when
transporting the MINI Countryman.
Tow-starting
If possible, you should use jump leads instead of
tow-starting to start the engine, page
168 . On
cars with catalytic converters, tow-starting
should only be used if the engine is cold; on cars
with automatic transmission, it is not possible to
tow-start the engine.
1. Switch on the hazard warning flashers, com-
plying with local regulations.
2. Switch on the ignition, page 46 .
3. Engage 3rd gear.
4. Depress the clutch before beginning to be
towed. When the car is moving, gradually
release the clutch. Press the clutch down
fully again as soon as the engine has started.
5. Halt in a suitable place, remove the towbar
or towrope and switch off the hazard warn-
ing flashers.
6. Have the vehicle checked.