my 2002 MCS,
the battery post in the front of my engine definitely is connected to the battery in back, but hell will freeze over before you can jump the battery using that terminal.
I have had tow truck drivers try and try...when you pull everything out of the back, lift the cover and charge directly to the battery,
vroom, fires right up.
but its a pia and could be a safety hazard too...
and why else would there be a front battery terminal if not to jump from?
anybody else have this problem?

been to my local dealer years ago, I won't even bother to tell you what they said...
maybe its time to go back again and see if they could make it right...the management has changed there about 6 times or more...

 

I thought the front posts were only so you could give a jump to another car.
I would not want to run the current through the car to get a jump. I would much rather jump right to the batter terminals.

 

The Owner's Manual says it is for receiving a jump. Step-by-step instructions tell you to connect the jumper cable exactly there.

 

I've given a couple of successful jumps from the front, but have never had to receive a jump. (It's good to know that there is the rear/direct option if the front fails, if I ever need a jump. I have a still-running-strong 8-year old oem battery.)

 

First time I spoke with the dealer, they acted like it should work. I"ll check again.

Anybody else, have you ever jumped your car to start your battery using the
front battery post?

 

I've never needed a jump. But I have had to gravity/push start a few times.

 

Thanks, good to know.

 

Well, at least that's how MINI designed it to be used, but it's going to depend on the condition of the cable and its connection. There are clearly some issues with it in the OP's MINI. I'm not surprised that it deteriorates over time.

 

I think we may be agreeing that jumping at the battery is OK, maybe even better.
I would not jump from the posts under the hood but your point that the manual says it is how to get a jump is good info.