If its an original radiator there may not be a drain plug on it and pulling the bottom hose will achieve the same result (and mess). The bottom hose is no fun regardless of your skill level. It needs a very long screwdriver or 1/4 drive socket set to get access down from the top.
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How to change a radiator in a 2008 mini cooper
"There is usually a small tap under the radiator but some times it is easier to remove the bottom hose to drain the system" Not all MINI Coopers have radiator drain plugs to the only way to drain the radiator is to loosen the lower radiator hose (after removing the shroud underneath it). However, this will only drain the radiator which holds just 50% of your coolant. The other 50% is inside the engine block so you'll also want to remove the engine block drain plug too. The engine block drain plug on a 2002 MINI is located on the rear face of the cylinder block next to the starter motor. This is important for when you refill the system as the aluminum block should not hold any more than a 50-50 mixture of water to antifreeze. Any heavier on the antifreeze and you will have problems later. Pre-mix the water and antifreeze before adding it as opposed to throwing in one gallon of antifreeze and one gallon of water to be sure. When refilling, turn on the ignition and switch the heater control to maximum hot. Also slacken off the bleed screw on top of the radiator hoses and refill until straight coolant (no bubbles) leaks out.
it's on the intake manifold, at the right hand side as you stand in front of the engine. If you still have the plastic radiator shroud (stock) then it hides access to the sensor
Coolant is added to a mini cooper in the equalizing tank. Some models have a flip up lid, while others have a screw on lid.
Mini (like BMW) uses a blue antifreeze
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it is beneath the steering wheel but be carefull, as it may be very hot.
Get a name-brand "Extended Life" or "DexCool" antifreeze. Prestone, Zerex, Peak, etc. All compatible with MINI antifreeze; the only difference will be the color. Get the 50-50 mix and just add it straight to the resevoir, it maintains the proper ratio.
The MINI requires G5 Anti-Freeze, available at most any auto parts store.
http://www.valvoline.com/pages/products/product_detail.asp?product=10 get it at NAPA or any auto parts store
Fill the system by using the reservoir mounted on the back of the engine bay to the left of the power steering fluid reservoir.
You can change the battery in your Mini Cooper by releasing the hood lock located on the bottom portion of the dashboard. The key to unlock the battery cover should be on the side of the battery cover.