I bought my 2007 MCS about a month ago, the seller only had one key and it didn't seem to be able to activate the comfort access. When in the car, w/ fob in hand (not in the slot in the dash), pressing the start button brings up a message w/ a key w/ a slash through it, with text similar to "key not present or radio interference causing a problem".

I wanted a second key anyway, so I ordered a replacement from theminipartstore.com (great turn time and service, btw) which arrived yesterday and still no dice.

Any suggestions? Do I need to reset the system in some way? Pressing the buttons on the fob triggers the appropriate lock/unlock/trunk function; but still curious about getting comfort working.

Not a big deal by any means, and I'd prefer not to spend much more (if any) to get it resolved; but hoping that there's some sequence to activate the fob(s).

Thanks in advance!

- Will

 

The battery in the fob might be weak...comfort acess ones have a replaceable battery...regular one don't (most years)...
IMO start there.

 

Since you just bought it a month ago, are you sure you have comfort access?

 

Thought about that on the orig fob, but this new one "should" have a new battery... I'll break out the multimeter shortly.

 

Yup - I'm sure it has the comfort option. It is listed on the build sheet when I run the VIN, and it has the black button on the door handle.

 

Quick update: The batteries check out just fine... any other thoughts? Suggestions? I've emailed the MINI Part Store (where I bought the replacement key/fob).

Being a computer geek by trade, I keep thinking there must be some sort of pairing/sync/connection process between the fob and the unit in the car.

Thoughts/suggestions welcome - I'll update as I know more...

Thanks,

- Will

 

Got a reply from TheMINIPartStore:

So it looks like a trip to my local MINI dealer is in order, unless someone can give me some DIY info...

I did suggest that they add this info to their product page - they said that they would add it to their FAQ.

Overall, very happy with the quick turn on both the key and the answer from TheMINIPartStore...

- Will