Basically my question is, with the JCW tuning kit on my F55 is there a reason I shouldn't drive in "track mode" all the time? When I was showing my boyfriend the exhaust settings, he wondered why you would ever close it. I'm thinking for smog reasons? Thanks for the help.

 

If you don't want to annoy the neighbors or driving alongside or in front of a LEO. That's the only time I close the baffle on mine.

 

Thanks. I've had it open since I got it but wasn't sure if having it open all the time would be bad for the engine in any way.

 

All the modes on mini I consider as follows

Sport = as car was designed to be

Normal =. Handbrake setting

Eco = hand brake + chock + anchor

 

I believe OP was referring to the setting on the JCW Tune kit and not the settings on the standard car.

The JOHN COOPER WORKS Tuning Kit for the MINI Hatch Cooper S F56 with JOHN COOPER WORKS valve silencer system (Bluetooth 4.0 control) offers two possible operating modes - "Sport mode" and "Track mode" - that both acoustically accentuate the car's sporty character.



"Sport mode" is approved for unrestricted use on public roads.


"Track mode" is designed for use on race tracks. The JCW valve silencer system, coupled with performance-optimised engine data, offers maximum emotionality, volume and sound for a more intensive driving experience.


Track mode: Maximum emotional sound, very sporty, very loud. For maximum performance on the race track.


Sport mode: Significantly sportier and more emotional than the standard vehicle, but with recognisable residual comfort for uncompromising everyday use.


The silencer system is made from high-quality stainless steel. For exceptional quality and longevity. Perfect look: the tuning kit comes with JCW chrome finishers.
Perfect fit: as an Original MINI accessory, the tuning kit is perfectly coordinated with the car.


The JCW tuning kit improves the standard engine's performance to 155 kW. The maximum torque of 300 Nm is permanently available with the tuning kit between 1,350 and 4,600 rpm.
The valve silencers have two operating modes.
The two modes are enabled / disabled by simply doubleclicking on the radio remote control (Bluetooth 4.0).
The selected mode is displayed in an LED settings display on the remote control. It is impossible to accidentally select "Track" mode. When the engine is started, "Sport" mode is always engaged. Track mode: Maximum emotional sound, very sporty. Only for use on racing tracks.
Sport mode: Sporty sound, for use on public roads (no further approval documents are required for this).

 

HA!! Great explanation.

I understand that Track mode is specifically rated for track use only but I want to know if that is just legal CYA on the part of MINI or if it's really not meant to be used all the time like I was planning.

 

Likely a CYA on MINI's part. Imagine if they didn't specify that and someone gets a ticket for loud pipes. Lawsuit time with our overly litigious society.

Having driven one in track mode and comparing it to the Harley's and rice rocket cars with megaphone exhausts, or boom box cars, not likely you'd be ticketed unless you are taunting a cop sitting next to you at a light (revving and rapping off the pipes).

Again a lot has to do with local LEO and their temperance. Not something I'd test in a 55 and older community.

 

I resemble that statement!
I'll be 69 this year and run mine in track mode all the time.

 

1950 BD and plan to do the same

 

Very simple - In Germany you loose your registration if the car is used with open throttle (track mode ) in public. Can cost you up to € 3000 plus penalty 2 points (Driving without registration ) if you reach 8 points - Game over.

 

Sweet! Thanks everyone! Not too worried about LEO out here for the loud pipes. With all the monster trucks, motorcycles, etc, Betty's exhaust is nothing in comparison.

 

I leave mine in track mode all the time.

Ignition on > Set exhaust to track mode > Start Car

Yeah I like annoying everyone around me on cold starts

But seriously, it's not that loud compared to most aftermarket exhaust systems. There really should be no reason to put it in "sport" mode. It doesn't even drone on the highway.