I have an 07 MCS with the push button start, but I was wondering if I actually need the key in the slot before starting it? I've read here in a couple places that some say they can start the car with the keys in their pocket. On mine, looks like I actually have to put the remote in the slot by the push button. Did they change this in 08?

 

They all have push button start. If you have the Comfort Access option you can leave the key in your pocket, if you don't have that option you need to put the key in the slot, no matter what year the MINI is.

Also the MINI will restart for a short time after you turn him off without the key in the ignition.

 

any easy way to tell if I have the comfort access option by looking at the remote?

 

I don't know as far as the FOB, but you'll have a black button on your driver-side door handle to unlock the car without using the FOB.

 

All the 2007+ Coopers have push button start. What you are talking about the "comfort access" option, which allows you to unlock and start the car without taking your keys out of your pocket. If you have this option, you will have a button on the outside door handle that locks/unlocks your car. I have read that it is possible to trick a non-comfort access car to start without the key in the slot.

 

Looks like everyone beat me to answering the question .

 

The remotes are different. The back of the comfort access remote has an (easy to open) cover for the replaceable battery.

Other easy ways to tell you have comfort access - You can look at a door handle - If there is a push button on it, then you have comfort access; OR you can try to open the hatch door with the key in your pocket; OR try to start with the key in your pocket.

EDIT: Guess I'm late on the "Post Reply" button too!

 

Doesn't look like I have it, reason I ask is that I've been having problems getting the fob out of the slot after parking the car. I Push it forward to take it out, but it doesn't work good. Sometimes having to jack with it for awhile.

 

I forgot about the replaceable battery .