Electrically there is no difference between a 2025 and 2032, other than perhaps mAh capacity due to the larger size. Performance wise in the circuit they should behave the same. C indicates Lithium/ MnO chemistry, R that its round and the first two digits diameter in mm. The last two digits are case thickness in 1/10mm.

I would expect that with improved battery technology a modern rechargable of the same size would outperform a 15-20 year old original, so maybe the problem is with the original in car charging system? Frankly the recharging idea for the key given battery memory issues of the time was maybe with hindsite not the best . Just designing a "normal" key with a replaceable battery instead would have done us all a favor.

 

kkcshipp
Val, I purchased a flip key on Ebay and nobody in my area can create a key for my 03 MCS. Do you have that capability?


Oops- I should check here more often. By "flip key" do you mean a shell or a whole new key? Send me an e-mail to "minikeyhospital@outlook.com" and let me know what you need done. Thanks!

 

Um, what key are your talking about? The pre-facelift MINIs came with a replaceable, non-rechargeable CR2032 battery in the holder on the circuit board. These keys are easily opened by putting a small screwdriver in the slot where the ring goes. The three button keys have a rechargeable VL-2020 battery with legs at a 90 degree angle, soldered into place.

Using a CR2025 battery in a two button key would give worse performance and especially life as they are thinner with the same voltage but less power. Using a 2025 or 2032 battery in a three button key makes no sense as it won't actually charge and could be dangerous given that they are not designed to be charged.

Val