This tutorial uses Root Exploit package released by Senior XDA-Developers, k1mu. The Root Exploit package allows Galaxy S4 Mini users to root their devices easily without tripping the KNOX warranty void counter.
Disclaimer: We and the developer of this rooting procedures shall not be held responsible if any undesirable outcomes may happen to your device. use of this root guide is solely at your own risk!
Pre-requisites
1. Install USB Drivers for Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini on the computer.
2. Enable USB Debugging Mode on the phone. Go to Settings >> About Phone. Tap on Build Number several times till the message shows "You are now a Developer". Then enable USB debugging by navigating to Settings >> Developer Options.
3. Make a backup of all your important data before following the guide.
4. Ensure the battery of the phone is charged more than 80 percent.
5. The Root Exploit package works only on the Verizon version of the Galaxy S4 Mini (SCH-I435). Applying this to any incorrect variant might brick the device. Verify the model number of the Galaxy S4 Mini by navigating to Settings >> About Phone.
File Required
1. Root Exploit (saferoot.zip) - Mirror Link
Steps to Root Galaxy S4 Mini (Verizon) SCH-I435 Running on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean
Step 1: Extract the Root Exploit package to the computer using WinRAR/7-Zip/WinZip or any other extracting tool.
Step 2: Connect the Galaxy S4 Mini to the computer using USB cable.
Step 3: On the computer, navigate to the extracted directory and double click "install.bat" file. You will see command prompt window which will detect your device and automatically run the scripts.
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions. Once the rooting procedure completes, your phone will reboot automatically.
That's it! Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini (Verizon) SCH-I435 with Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean is now rooted successfully. You can now install any app that requires root permission. Verify the root status of the device by downloading Root Checker app from Google Play Store.
Note:This exploit will NOT set the KNOX warranty void flag. It will set the "Custom" flag, but that's nothing to worry about. Tested working on the Galaxy S4 Mini (Verizon) SCH-I435 with Android 4.2.2 VRUAMK5 Jelly Bean.
Thank's to all fellas at XDA who first tried out this rooting technique. This method was originally posted via XDA-Developers original thread.