Our recent purchase of a 2008 came with only 1 key and we would like to pick up a spare. Unfortunately from what I have read it is unclear what we need to do to get a spare key.

The key we have has the keyless entry remote as a part of it and so can I order one like this from the dealer and program it myself, or do I need to have the key and car programmed together by the dealer? In other words, is the end of the key more than a keyless entry/lock that sends a signal to the car's computer?

In reviewing the Owner's manual it looks like there was originally a key included that did not have the keyless entry as a part of it. Was this key usable for opening the car and starting it? If so, can I order one from the dealer or some other source?

TIA,
Jay

 

Contact your nearest MINI dealer, they'll need the VIN, a copy of your DL and a copy of the title/registration. You can fax or email copies to them. They'll let you know when you can pick it up. Don't leave the shop until you've 'registered' the key with the car. There's a simple 'get acquainted' routine you have to do.
DO NOT waste your money on after market keys, they will not do as they should. Be prepared for the cost, they ain't cheap. I had to replace one first of the year for my '06 R52 at $155.00.

 

you may want to look at your insurance. some have lost key coverage. (You did "lose" it right?)

 

Thanks for the info and I was expecting a high cost. Will the key work in the ignition without "registering" it? I would of course do the registering, but I am trying to understand exactly what the electronics of the key actually do.