R50/R53 :: Hatch Talk (2002-2006) Cooper (R50) and Cooper S (R53) hatchback discussion.

R50/53 Things You Didn't Know About Your MINI

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Old Sep 1, 2009 | 06:09 AM
  #1651  
-=gRaY rAvEn=-'s Avatar
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From: Cape of Cod
1) It takes 3-4 days to build a MINI.

2) 95% of the assembly of a MINI is done by automated robots

3) The MINI symbol appears up to a maximum of 71 times on each car.
 
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Old Sep 2, 2009 | 11:30 AM
  #1652  
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The bonnet scoop on the R53 actually serves a function as opposed to the newer turbo models that have the scoop for show and reduced aerodynamics.

The exhaust system on the "S" is why there is no spare tire. It's not a true "dual" exhaust because all 4 cylinders feed into one single pipe.
 
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Old Sep 5, 2009 | 06:25 PM
  #1653  
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Not a True Dual Exhaust.....LOL!

Originally Posted by jd3544

...............It's not a true "dual" exhaust because all 4 cylinders feed into one single pipe.
What ? You mean as apposed to a 4 cyl V-TWIN !

Now that's really funny
 
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Old Sep 7, 2009 | 05:24 AM
  #1654  
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Not sure if this is posted or not, but when I hold the switch for the door locks in the open position for a few seconds, both windows and the sunroof fully open.
 
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Old Sep 7, 2009 | 08:41 AM
  #1655  
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Originally Posted by jd3544
The bonnet scoop on the R53 actually serves a function as opposed to the newer turbo models that have the scoop for show and reduced aerodynamics.
Is that true? Is the turbo equipped with a FMIC rather than TMIC? Sorry, I haven't popped the hood of an R56 ever.
 
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Old Sep 13, 2009 | 09:44 AM
  #1656  
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From: Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Originally Posted by JAROBERTSON
I didn't know my 04 MC would eat a new mustangs lunch on the Menomnee river parkway.
it's a stang sandwich!
 
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Old Sep 14, 2009 | 05:13 PM
  #1657  
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Glove box holds change

 

Last edited by MiniBetterThanBeer; Sep 14, 2009 at 05:21 PM.
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Old Sep 14, 2009 | 05:15 PM
  #1658  
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^ Haha, that's great. Do they actually stay there when you slam that thing shut?
 
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Old Sep 14, 2009 | 05:47 PM
  #1659  
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Originally Posted by fishbone
^ Haha, that's great. Do they actually stay there when you slam that thing shut?
Yes, actually. There are little rubber nubs inside each slot!
 
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Old Sep 15, 2009 | 07:59 AM
  #1660  
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From: Calgary, Canada
Originally Posted by fishbone
^ Haha, that's great. Do they actually stay there when you slam that thing shut?
Mine don't. Could be my driving also...
 
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Old Sep 15, 2009 | 02:47 PM
  #1661  
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everything else falls out when you open the door.....
 
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Old Sep 17, 2009 | 06:25 PM
  #1662  
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Even if you don't have the OBC the tach display still comes with the avg, kph, mpg, range displays built-in
I have an 02 without the trip button on the headlight switch. The computer always reads the outside temp. Are you telling me I am still able to find out my avg mpg? How can I do that?
 
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Old Sep 19, 2009 | 12:33 PM
  #1663  
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Computer displayed MPH.

I have the Speedometer and Tachometer on the steering column on my 2006, JWC-S. On my previous 2006 MCS with the speedometer in the dash, the MHP could be seen in the LED screen in the Tach. Doesn't seem to be the case with the current setup.

Can that be corrected?
 
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Old Sep 19, 2009 | 01:43 PM
  #1664  
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You need the on board computer option. Some people have claimed to have had it activated.
 
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Old Sep 19, 2009 | 03:27 PM
  #1665  
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Originally Posted by youngsota
I have the Speedometer and Tachometer on the steering column on my 2006, JWC-S. On my previous 2006 MCS with the speedometer in the dash, the MHP could be seen in the LED screen in the Tach. Doesn't seem to be the case with the current setup.

Can that be corrected?
So you then either have the extra gauge cluster option or the factory NAV, correct?

In that case, like you said, the car ends up with a "dual" pod on the steering column for both Speedometer and Tachometer together. In this configuration, there is no MPH indicator within the OBC. I have this configuration with an OBC, and the thinking is that you already have a speedometer in front of you, so showing a digital MPH was not necessary.
 
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Old Sep 20, 2009 | 10:25 AM
  #1666  
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Originally Posted by Ferroequine
So you then either have the extra gauge cluster option or the factory NAV, correct?

In that case, like you said, the car ends up with a "dual" pod on the steering column for both Speedometer and Tachometer together. In this configuration, there is no MPH indicator within the OBC. I have this configuration with an OBC, and the thinking is that you already have a speedometer in front of you, so showing a digital MPH was not necessary.
Seriously? BMW omitted it intentionally?

The problem for me is that I am tall and the steering wheel blocks my view of the top portion of the speedometer, and sometimes it matters. The LED, on the other hand is located at the bottom of the cluster.

They should have left it as is.
 
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Old Sep 27, 2009 | 10:10 AM
  #1667  
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From: Harrisburg PA 17011
A large Pizza Hut pizza box will wedge perfectly in the cargo area...
 
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Old Sep 29, 2009 | 11:18 PM
  #1668  
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The screw behind the middle spoke of the steering wheel is off-center and will now drive you nuts if you feel back there and have even the slightest case of OCD.
 
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Old Sep 30, 2009 | 04:47 PM
  #1669  
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When you're putting gear into the back of your Clubman, you don't have to worry about banging your noggin on the hatch...because there isn't one!

Obvious, I know, but the first time I opened those barn doors I was surprised how nice it was not to have a big hunk of metal hanging over my head.
 
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Old Oct 7, 2009 | 02:07 PM
  #1670  
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As a new ower, this post was very informative!

Thanks to everyone for the tips!
 
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Old Oct 10, 2009 | 06:47 AM
  #1671  
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From: Trussville
The keyfob is smooth and rounded, but also has a nice sharp angle that "cuts in" to a standard keyring for easy removal.
 
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Old Oct 10, 2009 | 10:53 AM
  #1672  
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I am looking at buying a used mini cooper s. Is there any difference I need to be concerned with over a 2004 or 2005?
 
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Old Oct 11, 2009 | 01:51 AM
  #1673  
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From: Mililani,Hawaii
Originally Posted by macarr60
I am looking at buying a used mini cooper s. Is there any difference I need to be concerned with over a 2004 or 2005?
yes, the transmission is significantly better in the 05. plus a small hp bump.
 
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Old Oct 11, 2009 | 07:47 PM
  #1674  
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Originally Posted by Rawhyde
The key recharges its transmitter when it's in the ignition switch on 05 and newer.

The UNLOCK button when held in will roll down all the windows and open the sunroof unless it has been de-activated.

The glovebox is refrigerated.

When you initially turn on the headlights, they'll be on low beam regardless of how they were when last turned off. The foglights are likewise off.

The controls on the automatic A/C are shaped like the MINI wings.

The annoying self-locking doors can be de-activated.

Daytime running lights can be programmed on or off per the owner's wishes.

When you activate the defroster, the rear defroster comes on as well.

There is a "pull ring" tucked under the rear seat to open the boot if there is an electrical failure.

There is a little toolkit included with the MINI.

There is a little tool to manually close the sunroof in case of an electrical failure.

The interior lights (or any other accessory) switches off after 15 minutes with the key off to prevent killing the battery.

The brake lights don't work without the key in the ignition.

The radio may turn off when you turn the key off, but you can turn it right back on without the key in the ignition.

The rear parcel shelf is designed to rest right behind the front seats upside down when it is removed from it's normal place.

There is an emergency release for the fuel door in the portside storage cubby hole in the boot.

All wipers can be lifted off the windshields, and they'll stay in the up position to keep them from freezing to the glass.

If parked with auto wipers ON, they'll be OFF when you start the car the next time. You must turn them off then back on to use them. (In case the wipers freeze to the glass)

Are these the types of odd facts you were looking for?

Rawhyde
Wow, I have a huge list of stuff to check out. Thanks for the info!!! new to the Cooper world. I love it. learning more and more every day
 
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 06:01 PM
  #1675  
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Originally Posted by MR ECON
If you touch the key to your chin or cheek while pressing the unlock button, the key will unlock your MINI from a much greater distance.
This had to be the silliest thing I've ever heard -- but now I am a believer, the darn thing works! My remote range is usually 85-100 feet with a clear line to the car, I stood about 110 feet away, no response from the car after 10 consecutive tries...tried the cheek thing and couldn't believe my eyes, it locked and unlocked several times.
 
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