How to Tow a Mini Cooper
by Karren Doll Tolliver
When a Mini Cooper breaks down, is involved in an accident or is otherwise disabled, you must follow certain rules in order to tow it properly and to avoid causing further damage to the vehicle. You must use particular care because the Mini Cooper is a front-wheel-drive vehicle. The front-wheel drive mechanism can be damaged if it is not towed correctly. The Mini Cooper owner’s manual specifies the appropriate method of towing the car.
Step 1
Turn the ignition key to what the owner’s manual calls Position 1. In this position the brake lights, turn indicators, horn and windshield wipers can be operated, but the engine is not running. If the battery is dead or the electrical system is not operating, the key should still be in Position 1 to prevent the power-assisted steering from locking the steering wheel.
Step 2
Secure the vehicle with the wheel lift on the front wheels, or pull it onto the flatbed tow truck. This step should be performed by someone who is trained in using this equipment. If the car is to be pulled onto the flatbed, then use the screw-in tow fitting found in the rear storage compartment. Screw it into one of the tow sockets located on the lower front or rear bumpers. Screw it in all the way and and attach a tow strap. Use the strap to pull the car onto the flatbed. Never tow the car any distance in this manner, and never use any other method to pull it onto a flatbed.
Step 3
Switch on the hazard indicators while the car is being towed. If the electrical system has failed, then place a warning triangle in the window facing traffic.
References
- "Owner's Manual - Mini Cooper, Mini Cooper S"; Bayerische Motoren Werke; 2002
Tips
- It is a good idea to subscribe to a roadside assistance program such as AAA so that you have someone reliable to call in a breakdown situation. AAA and other services have the proper equipment for towing your car if it is disabled.
- Always keep a fully charged, operational mobile phone with you when driving so that you can obtain help in an emergency.
Things You'll Need
- Wheel lift or flatbed tow truck
- Tow fitting for Mini Cooper
- Tow strap
Warnings
- Never allow anyone to ride in a car that is being towed.
- Never tow a Mini Cooper with a sling or tow strap. Because it is a front-wheel-drive vehicle, it must be towed with the front wheels off the ground.
Writer Bio
Karren Doll Tolliver holds a Bachelor of English from Mississippi University for Women and a CELTA teaching certificate from Akcent Language School in Prague. Also a photographer, she records adventures by camera, combining photos with journals in her blogs. Her latest book, "A Travel for Taste: Germany," was published in 2015.
