This Is The Ultimate Guide To Key For Mini Cooper
Car Key Replacement Tips For Your Mini Cooper
As technology advances, the days of turning the key to operate your car are slowly disappearing. Nowadays, we can use remote programming. Even these are susceptible to malfunction and require professional assistance. A mobile locksmith who is trained and skilled is your best option for quick replacement of car keys.
You can also purchase an additional key from a dealer, however it will need to be programed to your specific vehicle before activation. This can only be done by an authorized locksmith who has access to your VIN and registration or title.
Keys lost or stolen
Mini Cooper owners choose their Mini Coopers due to their high resale value Low maintenance requirements and great gas mileage. Like all cars Mini Cooper keys may be lost or stopped working. mini car key replacement can assist you in the event of this happening.
Modern vehicles come with remote key fobs that can be used to open doors and start engines. These fobs have an immobiliser system that prevents the vehicle from being driven without the correct key. If you lose the key, buying a replacement will cost you a lot.
Newer car models have an electronic chip in the key fobs, which communicates to the transponder located in the engine of your car. This chip has a unique code that matches only the code of your car. If you receive a replacement, it will have to be programmed to the specific car and requires an authorized locksmith or dealer with the appropriate tools.
It's expensive to replace your keys with a dealer, but this is often the only choice. A mobile locksmith professional can come to you and make a new key for less, especially if you have your car's registration or title in hand to prove you are the owner of the vehicle.
Unlocking Your Car
The horrible realization that you locked the keys to your car could cause a lot of stress and leave you stuck waiting for a tow truck or a friend to unlock the door for you. There are some clever tricks that you can use to save time and money.
The first thing to do is locate a long, thin rod. You can make use of a clothes hanger made of wire or choose a rod made of a strong strip of plastic, or even a shoelace. It must be thin enough for it to fit into the door's seams, and sufficient in length to reach the lock button.
Attach a slip-knot to the string. Attach the loop from the slip knot over the lock button. Make sure to gently wiggle the string using the knot on top of the lock button using back-and-forth motions until the knob inside the door opens.
This trick may not work in all cases however it's a good solution for many cars. It's especially helpful when your car has the locking mechanism located on the side of the door, rather than at the top. If there is a knob on the top of your door, you can also utilize this method when you have it. Be sure not to harm your car in the process.
Resetting Your Key Fob
If you lose your key fob or change the battery, you might require a reset. It's not likely to impact the function of your key, however when it doesn't function immediately there's a chance that you've installed the battery in the wrong manner. You should take the new battery to the dealership to be installed to ensure that it's the correct one for your car.
If you're trying to reset the key, you'll need a working one. After that, sit in the driver's seat, and set your new blank key somewhere close. Push the small silver tab on the back of the fob to reveal the keys made from metal, and remove the batteries. Replace the battery and make sure that it's in the correct way up (the negative end should be on the outside).
After you've replaced your new key battery then turn on the car. Use the lock/unlock buttons on your fobs to program them into your vehicle's computer. Once all fobs are programmed go back to your vehicle and lock it as normal. Turn off your ignition to complete the program. If you delay too long, the car may lose all its functions.
Replacing the Locks
It can be a hassle to get locked out of your vehicle, and it's expensive to replace keys. The dealer will charge you about $150 for a replacement key fob, and locksmiths could charge more. It is best to keep your spare keys in a secure location or buy a smartlock for your mini cooper that allows you to unlock it using your smartphone.
It is possible to replace the door lock actuator yourself however it requires a bit of patience and perseverance. The first step is to take off the old actuator by reaching inside and pulling it out. Make sure to remove the push rod for the manual lock that is rod with an elongated black plastic tip on one end that connects to an actuator clip. This part is difficult to locate and put back into position, so it's best to keep the window shut while working on this.
Then, remove the cover and the old battery. Then install the new battery and replace the cover. Install the actuator and ensure that the end of your control rod is inserted into the fitting at the top of the actuator. You may need to apply some force to move the actuator in position. You should now be able to lock and unlock your doors by pressing buttons on the keyfob. If they don't, you will have to contact a licensed locksmith or dealership for assistance.