I lost the spare key for my 2006 hardtop cooper and need a replacement. What info do I need (VIN?) to order a key and what is the cost roughly? I searched a dealership's parts catalog and couldn't find the answer. I was kind of hoping my local mechanic could order a key if I have the right info, it's quite a drive to the nearest dealer just for a key.

 

If I recall properly you have to go to the dealer to get one. It has to be cut and programmed to your car and they have to see proof of ownership. I have tried to find someone just to cut a blank key for me without the commuter chip and I have not found anyone able to do it yet and I live in Phoenix Arizona. You think a place that big I could find someone. Shop the dealers if you decide to go that route. The dealers here can vary quite a bit on price. It may be worth the drive.

 

$150-$200 for a key with remote, or about $75 for non-remote. You must order it through a dealer because of the immobilizer smart chip coded to your VIN. It is possible to get a replacement key without going to the dealer (I have done this). You must provide a copy (e-mail/fax) of drivers license and car registration or title. Key will be sent to the car registration address by FedEx (about $30, signature receipt required).

 

So was the $30 your total cost or just the cost of Fed Ex shipping? What was the total cost?

 

SHIPPING WAS $30
key was $75 or $150-200...
Prices do vary a BIT...so ask more than one dealer if you have 2 local ones....

 

Thanks for all the info. At least I know what I'm in for, cost wise. I don't have a dealer locally. Nearest one is ~150 miles away so I'll probably stop in and get this taken care of next time I'm in that area.

 

Whatever u do, make certain you are buying a programmed key, and the key is programmed and working before you pay/leave the dealership. When i bought my used '04 R50, it had 1 key. I told them they owe me another key, which they got after a few days, but could not get it programmed (it was a BMW dealership). They blew it off and said "the key probably just has to charge, try it after you drive a bit". I never got the remote function of the key to work, even after a battery replacement, several attempts and hours of internet searching and trying different programming techniques. Maybe the later style keys are easier to program, maybe a mini dealer would be able to program it without any problem, but just check your stuff before you leave after paying big $$ for a replacement (and driving for 2 1/2 hours). Also, and i may be wrong about this, but i'm not certain if they can make the key while you wait. You might call ahead and check what the timing is for the key process just so you know what to expect. Good luck.

 

Yes. 2005 and newer doesn't require dealer programming to set up the remote. Use this procedure: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...932-post3.html

As I already said, if it's inconvenient to travel to a MINI dealer, it's possible to order a key over the phone (I have done it). You must provide the necessary registration and ID documents by fax or e-mail, and the key will be shipped to you by FedEx. Also, if there's a BMW dealer in your area that's more convenient, they should be able to order a key for you.