wouldn't be hard, valeo makes most of germany's car manufacturer's keys from what ive seen. VW has the flip out keys. you could try taking your key to them, getting one that kind of matches (width and length that is, i dont think the grouves have to match key to key for the same car, but if they do, then get a match), and then re-programming the mini to accept the new key. I cant remember where, but i saw a writ eup on it some where once.
has something to do with sticking a key that works in the ignition while holding the unlock button for liek 5 seconds and then pressing the lock button or something, and then you press the lock buttons on all "new keys" to program them in.
idk if it would work, but it might.

 

is the #gauge of insulated wire of much significance? i'm sure that it probably is, but my newbishness extends far beyond motoring! i've been trying to DIY my way into circuitry and all things electrical. since i am only learnig on a case-by-case basis, my working knowledge can be... ehhh... limited.


my dpdt switch was also desoldered by the previous owner and--what must have been--his extreme thumb force. some people just don't know their own strength. < emoticon.

 

I modded my key fob, got another 25 feet or so.......

 

So, for curiousity sake, what fequency do these fobs transmit at? I assume you used that info to determine the length of wire that you used. What kind of antenna is used, as in, is it a 1/8th wave, 1/4 wave? As that would also determine the length of wire. Just curious what science was used behind this or if it was just a SWAG. If it was a SWAG, great, cudos.

 

Where does one pry for an '06 key fob? The likely place seems by the actual key, but I seem to be getting nowhere fast, just prying off a little plastic each time I try.

 

My fob is labeled on the back with "315 MHz", so a full wavelength would be about 95 centimeters, meaning that the 4.5" wire suggested in this thread is pretty close to a 1/8-wave antenna.

 

Come on, somebody must have opened an '06 key fob before now with out mutilation.......HELP.............

 

So thinking of this more.... would it be possible to solder to the key portion. make the metal key the antenna?

 

Not sure how or If that would effect the data transfer into your MINI Service Dealer's Docking port scanner when you bring your car in for service? Also I am not awre of what the exact metallurgy of the key is and if it can even be soldered to.

 

I just tried this on my spare key. Doesn't seem to give me any longer range...

On the other hand, key to the arm works just fine.

Quick question, do you guys also have trouble opening all the windows with the key? It's by pressing the key three times and holding it right? It always opens a tiny bit and stops.

 

Then you did it wrong......

I even know some Honda owners who have great success with this mod........

 

what about making a switch key out of a vw fob and welding a mini key to it? anyone know the make up of the key?

 

I know I've seen a MINI key mod somewhere. The person took the metal key part out of the fob part and made it a 2 part key.

 

Bump

 

OK, just found this: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...l-with-it.html

 

This is a great post. Have been thinking about this for a long time. Finaly looked it up on the forum. Did not try the wire yet, but did try the key on the arm. LOL it worked a little over 60 feet on my 07.
Thanks to everyone on this post.

 

Thanks for this writeup. I wasn't so much worried about the dorky cheek look. I look pretty dorky anyway. But in rainy afternoons I was getting very pissed trying to unlock the car with several failed tries...
This mod definitely increased the crappy range by at least 4x.

Peace.

 

Thanks for the antenna write-up!

My only advice is to leave the wire about 6 inches long, then after you finish soldering trim the excess. I wish I had about a 0.25" longer to make the loop more relaxed, but it worked well enough that I didn't care to un-solder and start over.

The range of my remote is dramatically better. Thanks!

 

Good write-up! Did anyone ever address mini_racer's question about opening the newer keys? I'd like to try this on my 05. Thanks for sharing!

 

Thank you so much! Thank you for sharing!