Hi all, just purchased a mini cooper S convertible. Got it yesterday, it's an 06 and I have sooooo many questions.

 

Welcome! Where you from? Let the questions fly!

 

Thanks, I'm in North Carolina. I just got the car yesterday, purchased it from Texas. It only came with one key and it doesn't work, meaning the locks etc. What does FOB mean?
What should I do? I read that 06 models the key should be recharging itself. I drove it about 60 miles so far and nothing. Any suggestions?

 

Fob as in key fob? that just what they call the electronic keys (i think). I've not yet had to replace the battery in my key, but I think you can. Check around on this site to see if you can find DIY directions to replace the battery. Or just call a local MINI dealer and ask them.

 

I was told that the 06 model keys don't have a battery but are charged when you drive.

 

If I do get a new key does it have to be programmed to the car?

 

I have no idea. Sorry

 

Pretty sure it does and it's not cheap to get a new key and have it programmed. These keys are sophisticated, have a computer chip in them which stores some of your car's data in them. You go in for service, they rep will plug your key/FOB into a reader and they can tell how fast you've driven, how many RPMs you've hit, etc.

The price of technology.

 

So the fob starts the car? But what doesn't work?

 

Believe the OP is saying the door lock/unlock button, windows down, hatch release button, etc. Basically, all the electronic functions in the FOB.

 

For what it's worth, "fob" in this case means something that's hung off a key chain. It's not a TLA (Three Letter Acronym) with any hidden meaning.


fob 1 (fɒb)

— n
1. a chain or ribbon by which a pocket watch is attached to a waistcoat
2. any ornament hung on such a chain
3. a small pocket in a man's waistcoat, for holding a watch
4. a metal or plastic tab on a key ring

 

I have a key fob for work its just a plastic circle and it opens the gate and doors at work, but a key fob that has a keyed entrance makes no sense. Not in the terminology anyway, but I called for a new key at the dealer myself and yet to hear anything back, it will be pricey, and it is possible the key you have may have gotten wet or something and therefor wont work, a new battery may fix it or the key itselfs internals could be fried, the dealership will have an answer for you the rest is just speculation.

 

Congrats on the new ride! I have read online, this forum and others, that the key should recharge while it is in the ignition on 05's and newer. However, when I had my '05 in for service, one of the service guys told me that the did NOT charge in the ignition. One of my keys is dead and the other one is fine. I too tried driving a bit to recharge it and had no luck.... Not sure who to believe at this point but I'm about to drive a 3 1/2 trip. Hopefully that will charge it or they will have to replace it.

 

Welcome

 

I'd be interested to know what the process of obtaining a spare key is...I, too, bought a used 06 MCS and only got one key with it.

 

I just found a few threads where people talked about ordering a new key from their MINI dealer. Prices were $150-$200 for the key alone plus $50 if you want them to program the wireless lock/unlock. Sounds like the MINI dealerships hehe... Maybe you could talk them down on the price or have them throw in the programming?

 

I spent a bit of time on eBay and I've found the key itself (uncut and unprogrammed) for under $70...I can't understand what qualifies a MINI dealer to mark that up 150%...I guess when I finally feel like I need a spare key I'll call up a MINI dealer and see how much money I'm going to have to part with...I'd imagine buying the blank key through eBay would be a much more economical option..even though it would need cut and programmed.

 

Congrats on the car... I'm on week 2 of my '05 MCS convertible and love her... I mean it

 

Congrats to both of you! I'm also a new MCS convertible (11') owner and it's been just a week. Can't believe it took me this long to come to my senses.

 

Actually, I'm not sure if it's just the 2nd generation models, but I know someone who bought a key like you are describing on eBay and it was impossible to program to the car. When MINI buys a new key for you, it is sent from BMW after they type in your VIN number, find a compatible key, then BMW sends it to MINI and then MINI programs it to your specific car. I didn't believe this so I went in and asked a lady at my MINI dealership (I am missing a key also) and she confirmed this was true. She says people come in all te time with keys they bought from eBay only to find it is impossible to program to their car. Wasted money and time.

 

I never knew getting a spare key could be such a hassle...

You may have saved me from making that mistake, however. Thanks for the info!

 

No problem! Hopefully you can prove me wrong, and if you do please let me know! Good luck.

 

Just the locking of the doors and opening of the trunk.

 

So, I called the dealer where I got the car from and he ordered me a new key for only $117.00, he told me it was cost. He is sending instructions on how to program it. Once I get them, I will be sure to post them. I had no clue that getting an extra key that works could be such a hassle. I'll post pictures of my pretty baby once I take them. It's blue with two white bonnet stripes. I LOVE driving her. Man she's fast. Problem is though, I don't want to get a speeding ticket. I just love having the top down when I can. SOOO HAPPY!!!!