When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I bought a new Clubman in 2014, still have it, and am still using the original key fobs. Which do not have (easily) replaceable batteries, as you know.
What should I do?
Try to split open the fobs, de-solder the batteries, and replace them?
If they still work, leave them alone. My understanding is the "key" slot in the dash has an inductive charger that keeps it charged up. So, as long as you keep using it, should be good.
If they still work, leave them alone. My understanding is the "key" slot in the dash has an inductive charger that keeps it charged up. So, as long as you keep using it, should be good.
Agreed, but even rechargeable LI batteries have a limited life. The dealer tells me that the fobs usually die after 5-6 years, and I am not looking to replace both fobs for $300-ish… so I'm trying to be prepared with an an alternative (before they actually die).
Agreed, but even rechargeable LI batteries have a limited life. The dealer tells me that the fobs usually die after 5-6 years, and I am not looking to replace both fobs for $300-ish… so I'm trying to be prepared with an an alternative (before they actually die).
My car was built in January 2012, and I'm still using the original fobs. I have had no indication that they are getting flaky.
Agreed, but even rechargeable LI batteries have a limited life. The dealer tells me that the fobs usually die after 5-6 years, and I am not looking to replace both fobs for $300-ish… so I'm trying to be prepared with an an alternative (before they actually die).
Mine is an 09 and I’m still using both original keys. The one I don’t use that much, will lose a charge, but if I use it a couple of times it comes back to life.
My car was built in January 2012, and I'm still using the original fobs. I have had no indication that they are getting flaky.
Originally Posted by Jason Cornelius
Mine is an 09 and I’m still using both original keys. The one I don’t use that much, will lose a charge, but if I use it a couple of times it comes back to life.
Thank you, guys. I think I'll put away my soldering iron and stop worrying about it, for the time being.
[QUOTE=StuSegal;4549284]I bought a new Clubman in 2014, still have it, and am still using the original key fobs. Which do not have (easily) replaceable batteries, as you know.
What should I do?
Try to split open the fobs, de-solder the batteries, and replace them?
Spend hundreds to get new fobs from Mini?
Something else?
Any advice would be appreciated.
I own a 2009 Clubman (named Lazarus due to fact he's been brought back to life more than once!) Sounds like your 2014 has same type of key as Lazarus'.
