Car Key Replacement Tips For Your Mini CooperThe days of turning the key to operate your vehicle are disappearing as technology improves. Today, we use remote programming. Even these can fail and require assistance from a professional. For a quick replacement of your car key, a professional mobile locksmith is the best choice.
You can also purchase an extra key from an authorized dealer. However, it will need programming for your specific vehicle prior activation. This is only done by locksmiths with access to your VIN and registration or title.
Keys lost or stolen
Mini Cooper owners choose their mini key replacement Cost Coopers for their high resale value with low maintenance requirements, as well as good gas mileage. However, like any other vehicle keys can disappear or stop working. A reputable locksmith can assist you in this case.
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote key fobs which can be used to open doors and even start engines. They have an immobiliser system which prevents your vehicle from being driven without the correct key. If you lose one, replacing it is costly.
Newer car models have an electronic chip in the key fobs, which communicates to the transponder within the engine of your vehicle. The chip is unique and has a code that matches only the code that is in your car. If you need a replacement chip, it must be programmed for your vehicle by a dealer who is authorized, or a locksmith with the right tools.
A replacement of your keys at a dealership can be expensive however it's often the only alternative. A mobile locksmith can create keys for you at less and especially when your registration or title is present as proof that you own the vehicle.
Unlocking Your Car
You could ruin your day by discovering that you've locked your keys inside your car. You could be left waiting for someone to show up and unlock the door or for a truck to arrive. There are some clever tricks that you can apply to save time and money.
The first step is find a long, thin rod. A wire clothes hanger is ideal, however you might also consider an iron rod made of plastic that how much is a new mini key strong or even a shoelace. It should be thin enough it to pass through the door's seams and sufficient in length to reach the lock button.
Attach a slip knot to the string (a sliding knot that cinches tightly when pulled). The loop from the slip knot onto the lock button. Use your fingers to gently move the string around knots placed over the lock button in back-and forth motions until the knob inside the door opens.
This method won't work in all situations, but it's a good solution for a wide range of vehicles. This method is particularly useful if the locking mechanism of your vehicle is on the side, rather than at the top. If there is a knob on the top of your door, you could also use this method if you have it. Be sure not to hurt your vehicle during the process.
Resetting Your Key Fob
If you lose your key fob or replace the battery, you could have to reset it. In most cases, this won't alter the functionality of your key, but when it doesn't function immediately there's a chance that you installed the new battery in the wrong manner. It is recommended to take the new battery into the dealership to be installed so that they can ensure that it's the correct one for your car.
If you're trying to reset your key, you'll require another working key. You should sit in the driver's chair and place your blank key in a nearby location. Then, push the small silver tab on the back of your key fob, and pull out the metal key and then take the battery from its place. Replace the battery and make sure that it is the right way up (the negative end should be on the outside).
Once you've replaced the key battery Turn the car on. Press the lock and unlock buttons on all fob to program them using the computer in your vehicle. Once all fobs are programmed go back to your vehicle and lock it as normal. Make sure to turn off the ignition following this to terminate the programming process since a long time between actions could cause your car to wipe out all its commands.
Replacing the Locks
It can be a hassle to be locked out of your car, and it's expensive to replace keys. Locksmiths can charge upwards of $150 for keys. The dealer will charge around $150. The best way to prevent this is to store your spare key in a secure place, or to purchase an electronic lock for your mini cooper so that you can unlock it using your mobile.
It is possible to replace the door lock actuator on your own but it requires some patience and hard work. The first step is to pull off the old actuator by grabbing it from the inside and pulling it out. Make sure to take out the rod that pushes for the manual lock that is rod with a black plastic tip at one end that connects to an attachment on the actuator. It isn't easy to locate and put back in place this piece, so it is best to keep the window closed down while you work on it.
Next, remove the cover of the battery and take off the old battery. Then install the new battery and replace the cover. Install the actuator to ensure that the top end of your control rod fits into the fitting at the top of the actuator. It's a tight fit, so you might need to use some force to bring it to fit. You are now able to lock and unlock your doors by pressing the buttons on the keyfob. If they don't, then you'll have to contact a licensed locksmith or the dealership for assistance.
