Car Key Replacement Tips For Your Mini Cooper
The days of turning the key to operate your vehicle are fading away as technology advances. Nowadays, we can use remote programming. Even these can fail at times and need a professional to help. A locksmith with experience is the best option to get quick replacement of your car keys.
You can also buy spare keys from an authorized dealer. However it must be programmed to your specific vehicle prior to activation. This is only possible through locksmiths who have access to your VIN and registration or title.
Lost or Stolen Keys
Owners of Mini Cooper cars often choose Mini Coopers due to their excellent gas mileage, low maintenance requirements and a high resale price. Similar to other cars, Mini Cooper keys can get lost or cease to function. A professional locksmith can assist you in this case.
G28CarKeys utilize remote key fobs to open doors and to start their engines. The fobs are linked to an immobiliser system that stops your vehicle from driving if the right key isn't in the. It's costly to replace it when you lose it.
The key fobs in the latest models of cars include an electronic chip that communicates with the transponder within the engine of your car. The chip contains a code that is unique to your car. If you purchase a replacement chip, it needs to be programmed to your specific car that requires an authorized locksmith or dealer equipped with the right tools.
The process of replacing your keys at a dealership can be costly but it's usually the only option. A mobile locksmith can create keys for you at lower cost, especially in the event that your registration or title is available to prove that you own the car.
Unlocking Your Car
The dreadful realization that you locked your keys inside your car could make your day miserable and leave you waiting for an emergency tow truck or friend to unlock the door for you. There are a few smart tricks that you can use to save time and money.
The first step is to locate an extremely long, thin rod. A wire clothes hanger is ideal, but you can also use an iron rod made of a sturdy strip of plastic or even a shoelace. It should be thin enough it to 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 tightly when pulled). Place the loop of the slip knot in front of the lock button. Be gentle and gently wiggle the string with the slip knot placed over the lock button in back-and-forward motions until the knob on the inside of the door opens.
This trick isn't suitable for every case however it's a great solution for a wide range of vehicles. It's especially useful when your car has the locking mechanism that is located on the side of the door, rather than at the top. If you have a knob located on the top of your door, you could use this method as well in the event that you have it. Be cautious not to damage the car.
Resetting Your Key Fob
It is possible to reset your key fob if you replace the battery or lose it. It's not likely to affect the functionality of your key, but should it not work immediately there's a chance that you installed the new battery in the wrong way. It's a good idea take the new battery to the dealer to be installed, so they can make sure it's compatible with your car.
While you're trying reset your key, you'll need a working key. Sit in the driver's chair and place your blank key close by. Then, push the small silver tab on the back of the key fob and pop out the metal key, then remove the battery from its location. Replace the battery, and ensure that it is the right way up (the negative end should be on the outside).
After you have replaced the battery on your key after which you can turn on the car. Press the locks and unlock buttons on each fob to program them using the vehicle's computer. After all fobs have been programmed go back to your vehicle and lock it as normal. Make sure that you shut off the ignition afterward to end the programming process because if you wait too long between actions could cause your car to wipe out all its commands.
Replacing the Locks
Locked out of your car an immense hassle, and it can cost a lot to replace keys. Locksmiths will charge you more than $150 for an ignition key. The dealer will charge about $150. It is best to keep your spare keys in a safe location, or purchase a smartlock for your mini cooper to unlock it with your smartphone.
It is possible to replace the door lock actuator on your own however it requires a bit of patience and work. The first step is to take out the old actuator. To do this, reach inside and pull it out. Make sure to remove the push rod to access the manual lock, which is an iron rod with a black plastic tip at one end, which is then inserted into an attachment on the actuator. This component can be difficult to locate and put back into place, so it's best to keep the window shut while working on this.
Next, take off the battery cover and remove the old battery. Then install the new battery and replace the cover. Install the actuator to ensure that the end of your control rod fits into the fitting at the top of the actuator. It may be necessary to apply some force to move the actuator in place. After this the doors should lock and unlock when you press the buttons on the key fob. If they don't, you'll be required to call a reputable locksmith or the dealership for assistance.