Hi there, I am a new owner of a "slightly" used 02 Mini Copper S. My question is, there is a small plastic cap on the rear bumper that covers some threads for something to screw in to. What goes here? I lost the cover Friday evening and I can't wait until the dealer opens on Monday. Does anyone know? Thanks in adavance.

 

I believe that's where the tow hook screws into the frame.

I have no idea when a tow hook would be used, as tow trucks are either flatbed (if you;re lucky) or they "sling" the drive wheels.

Maybe ia tow hook is so you can tie a rope from your car to one you are pulling?

 

That is where the tow hook threads into. There is one on the front as well.

 

They get used at the track quite often (not on MINI's of course) Our club requires them so they can pull you off the track quickly,

 

Say you slid into a ditch? You're going to have to be pulled out.

 

Even on a flatbed towtruck they should be using the towhook. If your car needs to be towed, make sure they use it.

 

Yep, cause if they arnt tieing your car down with the tow hook, the tow truck driver is guessing that part under the car is strong enough to chain down to keep your car from rolling off the flatbed.

 

You can get that cover from your dealer, but you will have to get it painted. I'd ask the dealer if they have a touch up guy that can shoot it.

 

The tow hook proper is located inside your "tool" kit in the boot, next to the battery.

 

The tow hook will help save your but when you need to get towed. The driver will use the tow hook to pull the car onto the truck if its a flatbed. This is assuming your car won't run.

 

does the average meat head tow guy know how to use these or recognize them? I have had tow guys really F up cars before

 

My car has been towed twice and both times I didn't even let them worry about it. I was sitting waiting for them with the hook in already

Afterall it was something to do while I waited for the truck.

 

man I was always kinda bummed thinking I didnt get a tow hook, I didnt know there was a tool kit next to the battery, when everyone said check your tool kit I thought they meant that bag that stores the jack

 

Everyday is a learning process