Read the great thread on how to program a new key on the later model R53's, but I have a 2003 (03/03 build). Does anyone know how to program the key for the early models?

I know this is said to be "dealer only", but what are they using at the dealer? NCS Expert? Some proprietary machine?

FWIW, my 2001 E53 (BMW X5) uses the same in-car procedure as the later model R53's.

 

You will need a GT1 or what ever BMW/MINI uses.

Are you trying to program the keyless entry?

Did you buy this key from MINI by VIN or is it a Chicom eBay key?

There is no work around to program the keyless entry with out he right scan tool

 

I bought a brand new MINI key from a mail order dealer. It's cut correctly and will start the car. Just trying to program it.

I have the suite of software (Inpa, Ncs expert, gt1) but haven't seen any posts on this.

My local dealer is list-plus on everything. Didn't want to pay close to $300 for key+programming. $120 for the key is bad enough...

 

Someone pointed me to the step by step instructions on using DIS to do this. Will give it a go this weekend.