https://www.thekeylab.co.uk/mini-car-keys/ For Your Mini Cooper
As technology advances the days of turning a key to operate your vehicle are fading away. Instead, we use remote programming options. Even these are susceptible to malfunction and require professional assistance. A trained mobile locksmith is the best option for quick replacement of car keys.
You can also purchase an additional key from a dealer, but it must be programmed to the specific car you own before activation. Locksmiths who have access to your VIN, registration or title can do this.
Keys lost or stolen
The owners of Mini Cooper cars often choose them for their great gas mileage, low maintenance requirements and high resale value. Like any other car Mini Cooper keys can be lost or stopped working. If this happens, a good locksmith will assist you.
Modern vehicles have remote key fobs that can be used to open doors and even start engines. These keys are connected to an immobiliser system that stops your vehicle from driving in the event that the correct key isn't there. If you lose yours, getting a new one is expensive.
The key fobs of newer models of cars include an electronic chip that communicates with a transponder inside your vehicle's engine. This chip has a code that is unique to the car you own. If you require an upgrade chip, it must be programmed for your car by a dealer who is authorized, or a locksmith with the right tools.
Making your keys replace at a dealership could be expensive however, it's often the only alternative. A mobile locksmith can make you a key for less and especially when your registration or title is on hand as proof that you have the car.
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 come and open the door, or for a tow truck to arrive. There are some clever tricks that you can apply to save time and money.
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The first step is to locate the longest, thin rod. A wire clothes hanger is ideal, but you might also consider the rod from plastic that is strong or even a shoelace. It should be thin enough to fit into the door's seams and long enough to reach the lock button.
Create a slip knot on the string (a sliding knot that tightens tightly when pulled). The loop of the slip knot on the button for locking. Move gently back and forth the string while putting the slip knot placed over the lock-button in back-and forward motions until the knob on the inside of the door opens.
This method won't work in every case however it's an excellent alternative for a lot of cars. It's especially helpful when your car has the locking mechanism located on the side of the door, instead of at the top. If your car has a knob at the top of the door, this technique may also be able to help you if you have the right tool on hand. Be careful not to damage the car.
Resetting Your Key Fob
If you lose the key fob, or change the battery, you could need to reset it. This will not affect the functionality of the key, however it's possible that you installed the battery incorrectly. It's a good idea to take the new battery to the dealer to be installed, so they can make sure it's compatible with your car.
You'll need you have another working key that you can use while trying to reset yours. Relax in a driver's seat and place your blank key somewhere nearby. Then, push the small silver tab on the back of the key fob and take out the key made of metal and then take the battery from its spot. Replace the battery and make sure that it's the correct way up (the negative end should be on the outside).
After replacing the key battery After that, you can start the car. Use the lock/unlock buttons on your fobs to program them into the car's computer. When all the fobs are programmed, you are able to return to your car and lock it as normal. Make sure that you shut off the ignition to terminate the programming process since a long time between actions could cause your car to erase all of its commands.
Replace the locks
It can be a hassle to be locked out of your vehicle, and it's expensive to replace keys. Locksmiths will charge you more than $150 for keys. The dealer will charge about $150. It is best to keep spare keys in a secure location, or purchase a smartlock for your mini cooper that allows you to unlock it with your phone.
Replacing the door lock actuator can be an easy DIY project for most however it takes some effort and perseverance. The first step is to take off the old actuator by reaching inside and pulling it out. Remove the push rod that is attached to the manual lock. It's a long rod with black plastic on one end. This rod will be the actuator's clip. This part can be tricky to locate and put back in place, so it's best to leave the window rolled up while you work on this.
Then, remove the cover and remove the old battery. Install the new battery and replace the cover. Install the actuator and ensure that the star end of your control rod is inserted into the fitting on the top of the actuator. You may need to apply a bit of force to bring the actuator in position. After that the doors should lock and unlock when you press the buttons on the key fob. If they don't, you will need to call a certified locksmith or dealership for help.
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