We recently got a '02 MC base model from the 2nd owner. He gave us only one non-remote key. We wanted a remote key also and called our local BMW dealer. They quoted us $210 for the remote key and another $150 or so to program it. Unwilling to part with that amount of money, we decide (in all of our infinite wisdom ) to buy a remote key from Ebay.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...m=180252475696

We received the key the other day and tried to initialize it. We tried what it says in the owner's manual and several other techniques found on this forum. However, it still doesn't work. Please tell me that this key is not absolutely useless.

 

It will have to be programmed by your dealer. The EWS system will only communicate with keys programmed to that vehicle. This is part of the security system MINI (and BMW) has been using for some time. It does mention this in the Ebay advertisement you listed and also implies that the key 'blade' may also need to be changed. Good thing is, it makes your car pretty hard to steal.http://www.murmini.com/articles/2006...general-module

 

I found myself in the same situation Moonbeam. I had 1 key, the remote master, but wanted 2 masters and 1 secondary. I was going to buy a blank on eBay until I called a few locksmiths beforehand who told be to forget it because of the chip inside. I had to go to the dealer. My dealer, here in MN, charged $130 for the remote key and $55 for the secondary. I believe MINI/BMW only makes so many keys when the car is produced.

 

Hey Beemer, i am in Fargo ND, and am looking at getting a key off ebay as well, so would it work for me to get one, get it cut by someone here in Fargo and then take it to the cities to get paired with my car, only have to pay for the key off ebay the cutting and then the programming?

 

Wow, I lived in Moorhead until last year, lived and graduated in Fargo! Motorwerks is the only dealer in the area (Bloomington, MN) and they require you to come in person, with DL and proof of ownership and will order the key and send it to your house. I got mine in 5 days. They will not program or cut a key that is not from them, or another dealer for security reasons, but since you planned to come down to have them program, it's no different. DO NOT BUY A BLANK anywhere! I was tempted, but fortunatley, emailed MINI USA, then called Motorwerks first. They charged $165 or so for the master/remote and $65 for the spare. Strange, but if you wanted the plastic wallet key, it's more than the spare!