So the lock button on my key has fallen off and now I am stuck locking my car with the key instead of the button. After the $250 quote for key and programming, I was looking into buying a whole ignition switch with key used on eBay. If I do this and replace the whole thing, does the key still need to be programmed or is it good to go since the used switch and key match?

 

Here we go again. First, no information about what year and model the key goes to. DO NOT waste your time with ebay keys!! There is a multitude of threads and posts decrying the wasted time, money and effort on those things. The key is programmed to the car's VIN which can only be done through MINI. Also, $250 is pretty high for a key. I replaced one just last year and it was only $150 thru the dealership.
Fax or email a copy of your registration and DL to the dealership and they'll get the ball rolling.

 

Member valvashon offers a key repair service: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...rbishment.html

 

Yea, I'd forgotten about him but he's mostly 1st gen if I recollect. Our OP doesn't provide a clue as to what model he's working on.

 

Its is a 2004 Cooper S. I posted this in the first gen section thinking that provided the information. I'm not talking just the key, I'm asking the key and the ignition module together. I was quoted at the dealer $175 for the key and $75 for programming. Hence the $250 price tag. Replacing the entire ignition module with matching key on eBay ball parks between $75-100. But my question was if doing it this way, key and module, would bypass the need for programming.

 

Let's be clear.

If you have a key that a button has fallen off of and only needs refurbishment, then the eBay key replacement cases are perfect. I would recommend going to a switchblade while you're at it but either way, moving your parts from the old key to the new one is simple. And that thread has ALL the information you need.

But if you don't want to do it yourself, Val can hook you right up.

It's not helpful to make blanket statements. But you are correct in that if you want an "extra" key or you lost yours, getting a replacement from the dealer may be your only option OTOH, some locksmiths may also have the right equipment.

///Rich

 

It's the EWS module that's paired with the immobilizer chip on the key, not the ignition switch itself. Besides, if you replace the key and ignition switch, you'll also want to re-key the physical door lock. Also the locking system (doors and remote) operates separately from the ignition immobilizer and you'll have to reprogram the remote anyway.