Mini Replacement Key

It may be that your key fob needs an upgrade to its battery. It may also require reprogramming to fit your specific vehicle.

This service is typically available at your local dealership. You can also speak with an individual locksmith. They will make use of the VIN number of your car to make you a new key.

Battery

The battery inside your key fob might wear out and cease to function over time. It is simple to replace it at home. Just pry open your fob, remove the battery that was in it and replace it with a new one. It will take some effort, but eventually you'll be back on the road. Certain key fobs require you to purchase an internal key blade, so make sure you include it if required when you place your order.

Programming

The key that came with your mini cooper car keys Cooper includes a chip which communicates with the vehicle to open the doors and turn on the engine. This is why it's vital to have a backup key whether you need it for an extra key or in case you lose yours. You can find an ordinary car key at your local hardware store. However, you will require a locksmith program that works with your vehicle.

Coding is a difficult and time-consuming procedure. It involves taking the CAS module out of the car and soldering it into it to obtain the key data. The new key will need to be programmed by a licensed BMW/MINI dealer or an expert BMW/MINI coder. This is why most locksmiths will refuse to do the job. If you can, try an independent BMW/MINI coder instead. They will use an ID44 chip programmer to connect to the car's BC1 module and read the existing EWS (immobilizer) code from the old key and program the new one.

VIN Number

Every vehicle has a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) number that is unique to it. This VIN number is composed of 17 characters, which may appear random, but they have specific meanings and are intended to protect the vehicle from theft and fraudulent use.

The three initial characters of a VIN code signify the location of the vehicle and the manufacturer of the vehicle. These codes are referred to as World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI). The characters 4-8 provide more details about the car including its design and features. The ninth character is a security code that proves the VIN as valid. The last character is the year the vehicle was built.

The VIN number can be found in numerous places on your car. It is typically printed on an image that is visible when you look at the windshield or dashboard. You can also find it on the driver's side of the door jamb by opening it and looking into.

Before you sign the contract to purchase an used vehicle, verify the VIN. A VIN decoder will assist you comprehend the VIN so that you don't purchase stolen vehicle or one that has damage. VINs have been standardised since 1981. However, prior to 1981, vehicles used a different format which can be difficult to understand.

Lockout Service

Modern key fobs come with a transponder that will disable the vehicle's immobiliser. These chips are embedded inside the key itself and send out a signal that is picked up by the CAS unit in the vehicle which then begins the engine. The advantage of this feature is that it will prevent thieves from using stolen keys to start your car.

MINI, a sub-division within BMW is known for maintaining high standards in style and technology. You can swap keys for any MINI model, old or new. This service is targeted for those who own vehicles that can be operated with key fobs.

If your key fob has stopped functioning, it might need an upgrade to the battery. One sign that this is the case is the fact that it takes longer than usual to turn on the lock/unlock button. If this is the situation you need to contact a locksmith local to repair the battery on your fob. The process should only take between 10 and 30 minutes. It is a faster and less expensive alternative to replacing the entire keyfob. It is also a good service if you have locked yourself out of your car and need help to get back inside.