Need to buy a new key fob for my 2006 mini cooper S. Can these be bought somewhere besides the dealer? Also is it that difficult to program them yourself rather than have dealer do it

 

do you want the long answer .... or the short answer?

If you search this topic you'll find a BUNCH of discussions ......

"car keys" are no longer simple pieces of stamped and grooved metal ... but computers of their own!

The last car I bought I was offered a special "key insurance" ... on top of tire insurance, maintenance coverage, fabric coating, anti-scratch cloud etc etc.

A "fob" can cost upwards of $400 .......

many 'blanks' are offered but then when it comes to programming .... "oh, you need to see the dealer" .......

I encourage you to not believe me and pursue a low cost way out ......

Not long ago I thought I'd lost a "key" and had a COW!!!!! Fortunately I found it . . .

 

+1 It's all about the VIN

 

I'm in the same situation. Recently purchased a used 2005 R53 the key has no microchip and I have to use the valet key in tandem with the master key to start the car, called up some dealers locally and the lowest quote I got was $190 for the key and then probably another $90 for half an hour of labor to program the key to the car.

 

The 1/2 hour to program it is BS. I picked up and paid for mine, asked the guy at the counter what next and he told me to insert the key and cycle the windows or something to that effect. Been several years so memory is a bit foggy. Maybe someone without old timer's disease can chime in on that issue.

PS: I just looked up the invoice on mine, Jan '15 for $166.00 so considering a bit of inflation, 190 maybe not too far out of line.

 

This link teaches you how to register a key in a 2006 Mini: . I was also able to find a locksmith that would make a new key, but I would be saving any money than going through a dealership.

 

It was a while ago, but as a point of reference, 4 years ago I bought a new key for our newly purchased R53 also since we had only one. A new programmed key from Stevens Creek MINI here in the bay area was a little less than $230 (key, programming and tax). I am thinking most will be in this ballpark still. A Porsche Cayenne key was a little less if I recall..

I didn't want to run around and buy a blank key then go to a locksmith and hope they would be able to cut and then hop over to a second electronics shop to program. What if it doesn't work in the end?! At least this way, I had a warranty and for sure if it didn't work, the dealer would be able to take care of the issue. Thankfully, the key worked right away and had no issues.

 

I think locksmith can easily cut the blank but not sure whether able to program it or not.

 

I think locksmith can easily cut the blank but not sure whether able to program it or not.