Car Key
replacement mini keys Tips For Your Mini Cooper
As technology advances the days of turning a key to operate your car are going away. Instead, we use remote programming options. Even these aren't perfect and
nearby need a professional to assist. A locksmith with experience is the best option for quick car key replacement.
You can purchase spare keys from a dealer, but it must be programmed to the specific car you own before activation. This is only done by locksmiths who have access to your VIN and registration or title.
Keys stolen or lost
Owners of
mini cooper car key replacement Cooper cars often choose Mini Coopers due to their excellent gas mileage, low maintenance needs and a high resale value. As with all cars, Mini Cooper keys can be lost or not work. A professional locksmith can assist you in the event of this happening.
Modern vehicles rely on remote key fobs to open doors and start engines. These fobs are connected to an immobiliser device that blocks your vehicle from being driven in the event that the right key isn't there. If you lose yours, replacing it is costly.
The latest models of cars have an electronic chip embedded in their key fobs that communicates to the transponder within the engine of your vehicle. The chip is unique and has a code that only matches the code of your car. If you get a replacement chip, it will need to be programmed to your car's specific model, which requires an authorised locksmith or dealer equipped with the right tools.
Getting your keys replaced at a dealership can be costly, but it is often the only option. A professional mobile locksmith will visit you and design a new key for much cheaper, particularly if have your car's registration or title on hand to prove that you are the owner.
Unlocking Your Car
The horrifying realization that you've locked the keys to your car could ruin your day and leave you waiting for a tow truck or a friend to unlock the door for you. Fortunately, there are some clever ways you can use to save time and money.
The first step is to locate a thin, long rod. You can make use of a clothes hanger made of wire however, you could also use a rod that is composed of a strong strip of plastic, or even a shoelace. It should be thin enough for it to fit through the door's seam and long enough to reach the lock button.
Attach a slip-knot to the string. The loop from the slip knot onto the lock button. Gently wiggle back and forth the string using the slip knot on top of the lock-button in back-and forward movements until the knob in the interior of the door opens.
This trick won't work in every situation, but it's a good option for many cars. This trick is especially helpful for locking mechanisms that are on 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 use this method to lock it if you own it. Just be careful not to harm your car in the process.
Resetting Your Key Fob
If you lose your key fob or replace the battery, you could have to reset it. Usually, this won't alter the functionality of your key, but when it doesn't function immediately, there's a possibility that you've installed the new battery in a wrong way. It's a good idea to take the new battery to the dealer for installation so that they can ensure it's in sync with your car.
If you're trying to reset your key, you'll need a working key. Then, get in the driver's seat, and set your new blank key in a
nearby location. Push the small silver tab on the back of the key fob to pop out the keys made from metal, and remove the batteries. 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 battery for your key after which you can turn on the car. Press the lock and unlock buttons on each of your fobs to program them using the vehicle's computer. When all of the fobs have been programmed, you are able to return to your car and lock it just as you would normally. You must shut off your ignition to complete the programming process. If you hold off too long, your car could lose all its functions.
Replace the locks
Locked out of your car an immense problem, and it could be expensive to replace the keys. Locksmiths can charge upwards of $150 for a key fob. The dealer will charge around $150. The best way to prevent this is to always keep your spare key in a secure location, or to buy a smart lock for your mini cooper to unlock it using your smartphone.
Replacing the door lock actuator could be a straightforward DIY project for most however, it will require a little bit of work and perseverance. The first step is to disassemble the old actuator. To do this, reach inside and pull it out. Make sure you remove the push rod to access the manual lock, which is rod with an elongated black plastic tip on one end that inserts into an actuator clip. It can be difficult to locate and then put back in its place which is why it is advised to keep the windows rolled down while you work on it.
Next, take off the cover of the battery and take off the old battery. Then, install the new battery and replace the cover. Install the actuator and ensure that the top end of the control rod fits into the fitting on the top of the actuator. It's a tight fit and you may need to use some force to get it into place. You are now able to lock and unlock your doors by pressing buttons on the keyfob. If they don't work, you'll need to call a certified locksmith or the dealership for help.