Car Key Replacement Tips For Your Mini Cooper
The days of turning the key to operate your vehicle are fading away as technology improves. We now have remote programming. However, even these may malfunction and require professional assistance. For a quick replacement of your car key, a trained mobile locksmith is the best choice.
You can also purchase spare keys from a dealer, but it will need to be programmed to your car before activation. This can only be done by an authorized locksmith who has access to your VIN and registration or title.
Keys lost or stolen
Mini Cooper owners choose their cars for their high resale values as well as their low maintenance requirements and high gas mileage. mini cooper key www.g28carkeys.co.uk to other cars Mini Cooper keys could be lost or stop working. If this happens, a reputable locksmith can help.
Most modern vehicles utilize remote key fobs to open doors and start engines. These keys are connected to an immobiliser that stops your vehicle from driving in the event that the correct key isn't present. It's costly to replace it in the event that you lose it.
The key fobs on newer models of cars have an electronic chip that communicates with the transponder inside your vehicle's engine. The chip is unique and has a code that matches only the code on your car. If you require an upgrade chip, it must be programmed in your car by an authorised dealer, or a locksmith with the appropriate tools.
Getting your keys replaced at a dealer can be expensive however, it's often the only option. A mobile locksmith can make keys for you at a much lower price, especially in the event that your registration or title is on hand as proof that you own the car.
Unlocking Your Car
The horrifying realization that you've locked your keys inside your car could make your day miserable and leave you stuck waiting for an auto 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 locate a long, thin rod. A wire clothes hanger works well, but you could also use the rod from a strong piece of plastic or even a shoelace. It should be thin enough to fit into the door's seams and long enough to reach the lock button.
Make a slip knot in the string. Place the loop from the slip knot over the button for the lock. Be gentle and gently wiggle the string while putting the slip knot placed over the lock-button in back-and forward motions until the knob on the inside of your door opens.
This method won't work in every circumstance however it's a great alternative for a lot of cars. It's particularly helpful in the case of cars with the locking mechanism located on the side of the door, instead of at the top. If there is a knob on the top of your door, you can also utilize this method in the event that you have it. Be careful not to damage your vehicle in the process.
Resetting Your Key Fob
You might need to reset your key fob when you change the battery or lose it. It shouldn't affect the functionality of the key, but it's possible you installed the battery incorrectly. You should bring the new battery into the dealership to be installed to ensure that it's the correct one for your car.
If you're trying to reset the key, you'll need a working one. Then, get in the driver's seat, and set your new blank key aside somewhere near. Push the small silver tab on the back of the key fob and remove the key from the metal and remove the battery from its place. Replace the battery with a new one, and ensure it's facing up (the negative side is on the outside of the fob).
Once you've replaced the new key battery then turn on the car. Press the lock and unlock buttons on your fobs in order to program them into your vehicle's computer. When all of the fobs have been programmed, you can go back to your car and lock it as usual. Be sure to shut off the ignition immediately afterward to end the programming process in case you are waiting too long between actions could cause your car to erase all of its programs.
Replace the locks
Locked out of your car a big hassle, and it can cost a lot to replace keys. The dealer will charge approximately $150 for a brand new key fob, and locksmiths can charge more. It is recommended to keep your spare keys in a secure location, or purchase a smartlock for your mini cooper that allows you to unlock it with your smartphone.
Replacing the door lock actuator can be an easy DIY project for most however, it will require a little bit of work and patience. The first step is removing the old actuator. To do this, reach inside and take it out. Make sure you remove the rod that pushes for the manual lock that is rod with a black plastic tip on one end that connects to an actuator clip. It isn't easy to locate and put back in its place which is why it is advised to keep the window shut down while you work on it.
Next, remove the battery cover and remove the old battery. Install the new battery and replace the cover. Then, place the actuator back in place with the control rod in the center, making sure that it's positioned so that the star end of the control rod is into the fitting on top of the actuator. It's a tight fit and you may need to use some force to move it into place. You should now be able lock and unlock your doors by pressing the buttons on the keyfob. If they don't then you'll need to call an authorized locksmith or dealer for assistance.