So i got my MC last year with a single key. It's not the original key either. But it starts the car and unlocks the doors when i use it on the door. The battery was dead in the fob. So i replaced it. The led light functions. But no matter what i do i can't get the buttons to work on it. I've tried the reprogramming thing numerous times. Doesn't do anything.

I have a 2004, MC. Two button key fob.

So, is the reprogramming procedure insanely precise and I'm just off on the timing or should i just order a new key?

Any ideas would be helpful.

Thanks in advance!

 

Sorry I'm not full of information about the inner works and hidden mechanisms of the key fob, but...
You're probably not real familiar with the key fob tales of woe spread throughout the forum from folks who bought cheap keys off ebay and other shady back alleys. If you do have to replace or acquire a second key you will have to do it thru a dealer.
They need the VIN, a copy of your registration and a copy of your ID all of which can be faxed or emailed to them. They will get the key programmed to your specific car via the VIN.

 

Make sure you are in close proximity to a defibrillator when they tell you what they will charge you.

 

The self-service reprogramming procedure only applies to the 2005+ 3 button fob. For 2004 and earlier, programming the remote is done by the dealer on a computer. I suggest you have a dealer look at it. They might be able to get it working without having to purchase a new key.

 

The receiver in the car might also be bad. There's a member, Valvashon, who repairs keys on the forum. Maybe PM him and he can help with the procedure to reconnect the key and car.

 

I read a thread a while back about removing the rear view mirror to clean the receiver. It can get damaged from water or rust from a leaky windshield or sunroof seal, something of that matter. I have the same problem where the key doesn't always want to work, and on top of that the trunk button does not work on both of my keys (works just fine from the handle). No idea why!

 

Hi Blueberry! Here are a couple articles that might help with the programming, including for a spare key, which may be how your non-original key is considered. When you get it fixed, maybe dress it up, too

http://new.minimania.com/Search_Resu...%20fob/default

 

Yeah I've tried all those. Sadly, nothing happen . I think I'll have someone at MINI take a look. I've already asked about it just hesitated doing it without asking on here first. Even them getting it working will mean I'm charged labor. But i really want my key fob working. So, i guess ill suck it up. ..

Thanks for all the replies.

 

Check out post #8 HERE for some info.

 

Welcome! Sorry we couldn't be of more help.

 

Hopefully these are the procedures you have tried. They are different between the '02-04 and '05-'06 models- the keys being two button and then three button.
https://sites.google.com/site/minian...ing-the-remote

Actually, that whole site is full of great info about these keys.

It doesn't matter how long the battery is out of the key or is dead. The key is programmed at the factory and will transmit a signal with the correct info- there's no memory lost if the power is disconnected. Also, how do you know that this is not the original key? Just curious.

Like the others have said, only a dealer or those familiar with BMW programming can tell if that key is still or ever was in the car's BCU. If not the dealer would have to program it in. If it is, you might have a bad receiver.

If they do need to program it in there is at least one barcode generator out there on the internet. You will need that if the dealer needs to code your key into the car's BCU.

Let us know what happens.

Val