I have recently made the change from MKIV GTI to a Mini CooperS.

LOVE the new car. HATE the new key.

The blade of the key itself is identical in size/shape to a MKIV key but has a massive "handle" portion.

I would like to mate the two. (or the spare key at least).

I want to use a MKIV flip handle with my MINI key. Im not to worried about mating the keys themselves, but im more wondering about programming the buttons to work for the mini.

Does any one know if this can be done? Or if i can simply buy a MINI flip key?

 

Buy a new-style MINI key (2005-6 I believe).

It's somewhat smaller that the key you have now, and will work with your car.

The VW key probably won't be able to be programmed to work with the MINI.

 

I love the switchblade key foy my jetta!

 

The new style keys are much smaller, but they don't work nearly as well (range).

 

Are there any pics of the keys side by side?

 

I really miss the switchblade key from my Passat...

 

I would also wonder whether the circuitry to recharge the key exists in a pre-2005 car.

 

Is that recharge thing really true?

 

For the newer keys, yes. The older keys have a battery in them.

 

2005 key pic from motoringfile.com. Its more BMW 3 series like.

 

I hate the flip key on our 2005 Beetle. It feels flimsy compared to a one-piece, and it's larger than my 2005 mini key when extended. It's also awkward to turn the big rectangular handle rather than the small mini handle.

 

I've never minded the key. One has to pick one's battles in life and, since the key makes the MINI go, it's all good to me!!!:smile:

 

I have that new 05 key and still think it's pretty big. (looks nice however) but then I'm used to Mercedes laser key...

 

I'm hoping the '07 gets the push button start and digital key that's been rumored.

My 9-3 uses a laser fob (Mercedes style) and I love it. I'd hate to go back to a clunky metal key.

 

not sure if i like those VW keys... it looked and felt real cheap when I took one out. at first i thought it was made out of plastic.