Finally WA State got some real snow & some ice in my area so I could see how Lisbeth did. She handles great in the snow & ice! Very sure footed and no problems. Only weird thing was that yesterday I heard some strange squealing type noises under the car while driving,almost like the sound that ABS makes when engaged. It went away after about 10 minutes--I have MINI Connected and the vehicle check displays all showed everything was good to go. My guess is that some kind of road gunk possibly got under the car that caused it. All has been well since then.

Only sadness was that she got very dirty from all the road salt, etc. Fortunately the car wash was open today, even though it was below freezing, so she got a bath.

Happy motoring,
Amy

 

Lisbeth=dragon tattoo reference?

 

We got over ten inches last Sunday. I had the opportunity to take The Beast down to Metro Airport (about 25 miles). There is not much that is more sure footed than an MCS with proper winter tires. I made the round trip on non or partially plowed roads with little trouble other than other vehicles getting stuck.

As for road salt. A good spray wash does well. For me, a dirty MINI is a happy MINI. I know that I am a little 'touched' when I look forward to driving in the snow.

I am glad that you have found that same enjoyment!

Cheers!
Chris

 

I figured there were some similarities there: IT geek, tattoos & a Mac user :-)

 

Put a hundred pounds of ballast in the boot and she'll go even better in the snow

 

where did you get your sig graphics/badges for the CM????

 

A terrific guy who is a friend and fellow SSMINI club member hooked me up. I'll ask him how he did it. If you look closely you can even see a grill badge on Lisbeth :-)

 

Can't believe that no one commented about "Cram it in the boot"!

Maybe folks have forgotten!?!?!?!?!

 

maybe nobody really ever thought about it with the new All4, and it might not be practical to everyone, but some weight over the rear wheels will increase the traction tremendously in the snow. Just sayin......

So have at it and "Cram it in the Boot"

~Cheers

 

Sealy has not seen this post yet i guess, thats's his thing

 

I'm reformed. No more boot cramming - except on special occasions. I've cut down on Pure Orange, too. It's no fun being a grown up, but someone has to do it.

On a serious note, a couple of hundred pounds in the rear of a FWD vehicle is not the best idea. Back wheels are only active when needed. I'm thinking that MINI Inc. probably has it balanced for optimal performance as is.



P.S. I'd suggest not walking too close to the wagon, I have been known to fall off.

 

I'm not saying you should carry the weight in the boot all the time but if you have some serious snow/ice conditions to make it through it can't and won't hurt. Well, maybe your back by lifting it in and out if you're out of shape (not you personally Sealy).

Believe me. I've been driving 4x4's for 35 years. That extra weight over the rear axle will provide much needed traction when you need it most.

 

Some things should be forgotten.

Cheers!
Chris

 

He is reformed, it all in good fun