One doesn't parallel park a Mini because it is difficult, but because too many people park by Braille. A Mini is wide open for damages and you know what can happen at the front end without much effort. The bonnet. The slam panel. The grille. Both wings. And then the, I-can't-get-home-because-the-distributor-cap-is-broken situation shows up to top it off.

Actually parallel parking a right hand drive Mini is sôooooooooooooo easy. No reason to not do it. :)

"Friends don't let friends drive drunk their Mini." (...the instant addiction thing.)

Good gascap advice Chuck...mine fell off the roof of the Van in Australia twice before I got used to filling up on the RH side!

One more, and I'll shut up. For a while.

Never put the fuel filler cap on the gas pump or the roof of the car. Put it in your pocket. Or on the driver's seat. Or keep it in your hand.

[roof of car added after Hunter2's post]

I don't remember for sure, but I think this is another one I first heard from masherk. Drive a Mini like you would a motorcycle. Pretend that NOBODY on the road sees you.

When working in the engine compartment, never leave rags, loose parts, tools or a loose radiator cap in the engine compartment. Put them in your pocket or on  something like a tray next to the car. Or on the workbench.

One from masherk on this site. If you can afford the car, you can afford the manual.

The intention of this thread is to come up with a list of things that Mini owners should or should not do when driving or working on a Mini. Some things may apply to other cars, or may be things one should have, but try to stay Mini and automotive. The list should help newbies and may help those of us who have been around Minis for a few years.

Here's a start.

Never parallel park a Mini.