Car Key Replacement Tips For Your Mini Cooper
As technology advances technology, the days of turning a key to operate your vehicle are fading away. Instead, we use remote programming options. Even these aren't perfect and need a professional to help. A trained mobile locksmith is the best option to get quick replacement of your car keys.
You can also purchase a spare key at a dealer. However it will require programming to your specific vehicle before activation. This can only be done by locksmiths who have access to your VIN and registration or title.
Keys lost or stolen
The owners of Mini Cooper cars often choose Mini Coopers for their high gas mileage, low maintenance requirements and a high resale price. However, like any other vehicle keys may disappear or cease to function. If this happens, a reputable locksmith will help.
Modern vehicles rely on remote key fobs that allow you to open doors and begin their engines. They also have an immobiliser feature that stops the vehicle from being driven without the correct key. If you lose yours replacing it is expensive.
Newer car models have an electronic chip embedded in their key fobs which talks to the transponder inside the engine of your vehicle. The chip is equipped with a code that is unique to the car. If you get a replacement, it will have to be programmed to the specific car that requires an authorized dealer or a locksmith with the appropriate tools.
A replacement of your keys at a dealer can be expensive however, it's often the only option. A mobile locksmith can create you a key for lower cost in particular in the event that your registration or title is in hand to prove that you have the car.
Unlocking Your Car
You can ruin your day by realizing that you have locked your keys in your car. You may be stuck waiting for someone to arrive and open the door, or for a tow-truck to arrive. There are new mini car key that you can use to save time and money.
The first step is to locate a long and thin rod. You can use a wire clothes hanger, but you can also use a rod that is composed of a strong strip of plastic, or a shoelace. It should be thin enough it to fit into the door's seam, and long enough to reach to the lock button.
Make a slip knot in the string (a sliding knot that cinches tightly when pulled). Place the loop from the slip knot onto the button for the lock. Move gently back and forth the string while putting the slip knot on top of the lock button in forward and back motions until the knob in the interior of the door opens.
This trick won't work in all situations, but it's a good option for a variety of cars. This trick is especially useful if the locking mechanism of the car is situated on the side, rather than the top. If you have a knob at the top of your door, you could also make use of this method in the event that you have it. Be cautious not to damage the car.
Resetting Your Key Fob
It's possible that you need to reset your key fob if you replace the battery or lose it. This won't usually affect the function of the key, however it's possible you installed the battery incorrectly. It's best to take the new battery to the dealership to be installed, so they can make sure it's matched to your vehicle.
When you're trying to reset your key, you'll require another working one. After that, sit in the driver's seat and set your new blank key somewhere close. Then, push the small silver tab on the back of your key fob, and pull out the metal key, then remove the battery from its location. Replace the battery with a fresh one, and ensure it's facing up (the negative side is on the outside of the fob).
After replacing the key battery You can then turn on the car. Press the locks and unlock buttons on all fob to program them using the vehicle's computer. When all the fobs are programmed, then you can return to your car and lock it as usual. Turn off your ignition to complete the programming process. If you hold off too long, the car may not be able to execute all its functions.
Replacing the Locks
It's a pain to be locked out of your car and it can be costly to replace keys. The dealer will charge you about $150 for a replacement key fob, while locksmiths can charge more. It is recommended to keep your spare keys in a secure place or purchase a smartlock for your mini cooper to unlock it using your smartphone.
It is possible to change the door lock actuator yourself however, it requires a bit of patience and work. The first step is to pull out the old actuator by reaching inside and pulling it out. Make sure to remove the rod that pushes for the manual lock, which is a rod with an elongated black plastic tip on one end that inserts into a clip on the actuator. This part can be tricky to locate and reinstall into position, so it's recommended to keep the window open while you work on this.
Then, remove the cover and remove the old battery. Then, install the new battery and replace the cover. Install the actuator to ensure that the star end of the control rod fits into the fitting on the top of the actuator. It's a tight fit, so you might need to apply some force to get it to fit. You should be able to lock and unlock your doors by pressing buttons on the keyfob. If they don't, you'll need to contact an authorized locksmith or dealer for assistance.