Just bought a ‘17 F60 with 13k miles on it. It wasn’t a Mini dealership so they were of no help in providing me with the second Key Fob. Mini says it will cost $375 for a replacement. I forgot to inquire about programming it, so that is most likely another charge. My question is, has anyone bought one from eBay or another site? If it’s stated as OEM and I have it programmed to the car, is there any real difference from the pricey unit from the dealer?

 

The 'pricey' unit comes programmed. Buck up and spend the money.

 

Avoid the aftermarket ones- it's virtually impossible to get them working with your car. Try MINI of Peabody in Massachusetts- they are a discount dealer and sell all their parts, including keys, at a discount. Their website is "minipartsmass.com" but it's under construction so try here' "https://www.minipeabody.com/mini-parts.htm". They usually don't discount phone orders but they might while they are under construction. A key like the one you need will run about $135 or so; the pull out key will run you a bit more. If you have comfort access the car will need to be coded for the comfort access features to work, otherwise the remote functions should pair themselves after you use the key to start the car for the first time.

Val

 

+1 what Valvashon said.

You'll need to provide the VIN and proof of ownership as in DL and registration. The key has to be coded to the VIN. Been there, done that, just bite the bullet.