Car Key Replacement Tips For Your Mini Cooper
The days of turning the key to operate your car are disappearing as technology advances. Instead, we have remote programming options. Even these are susceptible to malfunction and require professional assistance. A locksmith with experience is your best option for fast replacement of your car key.
You can also buy an extra key from a dealer. However, duplicate mini cooper key will need programming to your specific vehicle prior to activation. Locksmiths with access to your VIN or registration number, as well as your title can do this.
Keys stolen or lost
The owners of Mini Cooper cars often choose them for their great gas mileage, low maintenance requirements and a high resale value. However, just like every other car keys can be lost or not work. A reputable locksmith can assist you if this happens.
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote key fobs that can be used to unlock doors and even start engines. They have an immobiliser feature that stops your vehicle from being driven without the proper key. It's costly to replace it in the event that you lose it.
The key fobs of newer models of automobiles have an electronic chip that communicates with the transponder inside your vehicle's engine. The chip is equipped with a code that is unique to the car. If you want to replace it chip, it must be programmed to the specific car and requires an authorized dealer or a locksmith with the appropriate tools.
Getting your keys replaced at a dealer could be costly, but it is often the only option. Locksmiths on the move can make you a key for less in particular when your title or registration is in hand to prove that you own the vehicle.
Unlocking Your Car
It can be a nightmare when you realize you've locked your keys inside your car. It could be that you are waiting for someone to arrive to unlock the door or for a tow-truck arrive. There are fortunately clever strategies you can apply to save yourself time and money.
The first thing you need to do is locate a long, thin rod. A clothes hanger made of wire is ideal, but you might also consider an iron rod made of an incredibly strong strip of plastic or even a shoelace. It should be thin enough that it can fit into the door's seams and long enough to reach the lock button.
Tie a slip knot in the string (a sliding knot that tightens when pulled). Place the loop of the slip knot over the button for locking. Be gentle and gently wiggle the string using the slip knot over the lock-button using back-and-forward movements until the knob located on the inside of the door opens.
This trick might not work for all situations, but it is an effective solution for many automobiles. This trick is especially useful when the locking mechanism of the car is situated on the side, instead of at the top. If you have a knob on the top of your door, you can also utilize this method if you have it. Be careful not to hurt your vehicle during the process.
Resetting Your Key Fob
You may need to reset your key fob when you change the battery or lose it. This shouldn't impact the function of the key, however it's possible that you've installed the battery incorrectly. It is recommended to take the new battery to the dealership to be installed to confirm that it's a suitable one for your vehicle.
You'll need to ensure you have another working key in your possession while you're trying to reset yours. Then, sit in the driver's chair and set your new blank key aside somewhere near. Then, push the small silver tab on the back of the key fob and remove the key from the metal and then take the battery from its position. Replace the battery, and ensure that it's the right way up (the negative end should be on the outside).
After replacing the battery in your key You can then turn on the car. Press the lock or unlock buttons on your fobs to programme them into the vehicle's computer. When all of the fobs are programmed, you can go back to your car and lock it just as you would normally. Make sure to turn off the ignition immediately afterward to end the programming process, as waiting too long between actions could cause your car to wipe out all of its programs.
Replacing the Locks
It's a hassle to get locked out of your vehicle, and it's expensive to replace keys. The dealer will charge about $150 for a new key fob, but locksmiths may charge more. It is best to keep your spare keys in a safe location or purchase a new smartlock for your mini cooper that allows you to unlock it using your phone.
Replacing the door lock actuator can be a straightforward DIY project for most, but it requires a little bit of work and perseverance. The first step is removing the old actuator. To accomplish this, you need to reach inside and remove it. Take off the rod that is connected to the manual lock. It's a long rod with black plastic on one end. The rod connects to a clip in the actuator. This part can be tricky to locate and then get back into position, so it's a good idea to keep the window closed while working on this.
Next, remove the battery cover and remove the old battery. Install the new battery and then replace the cover. Finally, put the actuator back in place and ensure that the top end of the control rod fits in the fitting on the top of the actuator. You may have to apply a little force to get the actuator in position. You should now be able to lock and unlock your doors by pressing the buttons on the keyfob. If they don't work, you'll be required to call a reputable locksmith or the dealership for assistance.