Is there any way to switch out the key portion of a key fob? When I bought my '04 MCS (preowned), there was only one key. At the time of purchase, I asked the MINI dealer about a spare key, which they could not find. I insisted that I receive a spare key before I bought the car. However, I didn't think to specify that I wanted a spare remote key. Of course, they only sent me a key with no remote. Figures.

At any rate, I know that one can buy a key with remote through eBay. If I buy a key with the remote, is there any way I can switch out the key part of the fob? As you can see from the picture, there seems to be a coiled pin, but I have no idea how to remove/replace it, and even if I did, I don't know if that is what actually holds the key in place. Moreover, if I can replace the key, how do I know the key will hold?

If anyone has tried this, or looked into it, what was your experience?

Thanks!

 

Anyone?

 

You've got it. Just push the pin out, slide the blade out and reverse for installation.

 

Thanks for the reassurance. From my inspection, it doesn't look like the pin can be pushed out; rather, it looks like I may have to pull it out with a tiny pair of needle nose pliers.

 

But it seems to me that the key part is the least of the problem as the transmitter won't send the correct security codes to work or when you hit the button every MINI in the area would open. And the proximity code that allows the Mini to start would also not be compatable. I have not heard that these functions can be reprogramed.

I could be wrong but....

 

True enough...however, I already have the security chip in the spare key and the lock/unlock transmitter simply needs to be programmed with the vehicle. After that, the key should function normally.

 

If you check the owners manual, the book describes how to reprogram a key in case of replacing the battery. I'm guessing it is the say way the dealer would program the new key.

 

Good to know! We need an extra key but didnt want to spend the big bucks. Let us know if everything works out!

 

That doesn't look too hard. The pin is flared on both ends, so you aren't pushing or pulling it out with a pliers. You need to either drill it out, or enough of each end to remove the flare, then you can drift it out with a suitable pin punch. Replacement will require a new pin. It's a roll pin, which is available at hardware supply houses (harborfreight.com has a kit with lots of sizes). pick a size that is a real tight fit and press it in with a vice, then if it's not really tight to prevent all lateral movement, flare the ends with a larger nail by tapping it with a hammer (backed up on an anvil or suitable metal) or by using a pair of steel BB's or ball bearings and a vice to do both sides at once.

 

why not hang it on your key ring as is? Leave it sepeate from the fob.

 

Thanks for the info ksmass1! I ordered a replacement key (with remote of course) through eBay for $14. As soon as it arrives, I will begin surgery and let you all know how it works out for me.

Although I could carry the extra key around as a remote only, I like the idea of having it as one unit just like OEM for a fraction of the dealer's rate.