Segment:
Premium Compact SUV / Crossover
Positioning:
Offers MINI's signature go-kart handling, distinctive styling, and premium interior in a more practical, versatile package.
Key Competitors:
Audi Q3, BMW X1, Volkswagen Tiguan, Volvo XC60 (early models), Nissan Juke.
Design:
Unique MINI styling, elevated ride height, increased interior space compared to standard MINI models, available ALL4 all-wheel drive.
Performance:
Sporty driving dynamics, responsive engines, available turbocharged performance.
Engine:
1.6L Turbocharged (N18B16), 1.6L Naturally Aspirated (N16B16) - Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine management (DME).
Transmission:
6-Speed Manual (GS6-55BG), 6-Speed Automatic (GA6F21WA) - Clutch, gearbox internals, torque converter, shift mechanisms, automatic transmission control.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (ALL4) System - Transfer case, rear differential, driveshafts, CV joints, Haldex coupling (if applicable).
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system - ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension - Control arms, springs, shock absorbers, sway bars, bushings, steering knuckles.
Steering:
Electric Power Steering (EPS) - Steering column, steering rack, power steering motor, sensors.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system - Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), DME, EGS, infotainment wiring.
Climate Control:
HVAC system - Air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant, performance testing.
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, sunroof (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change, spark plug torque specifications.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic codes (DTCs), fault diagnosis for all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring schematic interpretation.
Repair:
Engine overhaul procedures, transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair and replacement.
Installation:
Component removal and installation, timing belt/chain service (if applicable), turbocharger replacement, fuel injector replacement.
Depth:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, diagnostic procedures, electrical schematics, exploded views.
Engine Code N18:
N18B16 (1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4)
Engine Code N16:
N16B16 (1.6L Naturally Aspirated Inline-4)
N18 Horsepower:
181 hp @ 5500 rpm
N18 Torque:
177 lb-ft @ 1600-5000 rpm (192 lb-ft with overboost)
N16 Horsepower:
121 hp @ 6000 rpm
N16 Torque:
114 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct injection (DI) for N18, Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for N16.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW/MINI P-OAT (Purple) Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 6.0 Liters (6.3 US Quarts)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 2011 model year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with specific safety features)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control
Hill Assist:
Standard (integrated with DSC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically recommended replacement around 45,000-60,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace annually or as needed.
Spark Plugs:
N18 (Turbo): Replace every 60,000 miles. N16 (NA): Replace every 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec N18:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 Synthetic, BMW Longlife-01 or LL-04 Approved.
Engine Oil Spec N16:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic, BMW Longlife-01 or LL-04 Approved.
Engine Oil Capacity N18:
Approximately 4.2 Liters (4.4 US Quarts) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity N16:
Approximately 4.2 Liters (4.4 US Quarts) with filter change.
Turbocharger Issues:
Potential for oil leaks, wastegate rattle, or turbo failure in high-mileage vehicles; regular oil changes are crucial.
Oil Consumption:
Some N18 engines can exhibit higher than average oil consumption; monitor oil level regularly.
Water Pump Leaks:
Plastic water pump housing can develop leaks over time.
Timing Chain Tensioner:
Early N18 engines had a less robust tensioner; listen for rattling noises on startup, indicating potential wear.
Vacuum Leaks:
Various vacuum hoses and intake manifold seals can degrade, leading to rough idle or performance issues.
