Flat Towing 2016 Mini Cooper with Manual Transmission

Updated 02/03/2022 | Published 03/14/2016

Question:

Can you flat tow a 2016 Mini Cooper with Manual trans

asked by: Randy T

Expert Reply:

Generally manual transmission cars are more easily flat towed than automatics. I checked the Mini online owner's manual for information about recreational towing (flat towing) of your 2016 Mini Cooper with manual transmission. On page 217 the online manual indicates the vehicle can be flat towed with a tow bar, but I do suggest you review your manual since the vehicle could be offered in different versions. Your manual will correctly reflect the capabilities of your particular car.

You may also care to refer to the linked article on flat towing which details each of the components required for safe and legal flat towing. These include base plates, a tow bar, safety cables, a wiring/lighting kit, supplemental braking system and usually a high/low hitch adapter. I included a link to base plates for the car.

expert reply by: Adam R

George H.

7/28/2020

We tow a 2017 Mini Cooper manual. However, mileage accrues on the odometer. In neutral with engine off. Is there a way to Disable odometer? Not sure why design would call for odometer to work when engine off.

Jon G.

8/4/2020

You'll want to reach out to your local Mini dealer about disabling the odometer. This isn't a normal practice for us so I can't really recommend anything that I know would work.

Steve D.

8/29/2021

@GeorgeH I am looking at purchasing a 2017 Mini Hardtop 2 door Cooper S to use as a dinghy. Can you detail for me the procedure you use to tow yours? I.E does the steering lock requiring the ignition to be in ACC mode or is it truly as simple as put it in neutral with engine off and go?? Thank you so much

Victoria B.

9/7/2021

@SteveD Check out the owner's manual for the vehicle you are looking at purchasing for the most detailed info on how to flat tow the vehicle. The manual will walk you through if flat towing is possible and if so, the steps that are necessary to safely flat tow. Some manuals can be found online if you don't have access to the vehicle.