Ok, so I just purchased a 2008 Cooper and it came with this roof rack and bike system on top of it. I would like to remove it. (And put it on eBay and enjoy the presumed added fuel efficiency from the streamlined aerodynamics on the hwy.)

It came with two identical small keys--each marked 008. These keys open the lock on the bike arm. But the four hubs that attach the rack to the roof are marked with 002 on the lock cylinders. My 008 keys do not unlock these.

Does it seem strange it would require to different keys?

Anyone out there with an 002 key to share?

Arro
Austin, Tex.

The base system has its own set of keys, as do all the other accessory racks you can get. I don't know about the numbers on the cylinders, but if you didn't get a set of keys for the base rack system, you will have some trouble getting it off. I kind of doubt that every base system would have identical keys, but I don't know for sure.

there are a number of different keys, mine are 007, and unless you specify that you want a certain number lock on the accessories then you will get what ever they have. It works the same way with all aftermarket racks as well.

Head to your dealer and see if they have a set of racks or accessories with the 002 key. but remember once it comes off there are 4 open slots where the rack mounts and if you dont have the plug strips for them then i would recommend getting some, the dealer can order them.

And BTW I have the racks on and off my car and the difference in fuel mileage is less than 1 mile a gallon. Now of course if you are not going to use them at all then it is worth while to take them off.

I am really glad to hear that you only noticed 1 mile per gallon difference rack on - rack off. Even if it were closer to 5 miles per gallon I would be happy so you saying 1 makes me estatic. Now to solve my problem where the bike rails hit the spoiler. I can't believe Mini corporate says turn them around and have the long ends hand over the windshield. The saw seems the only solution.

I bought a used R56 that came with a rack.... unfortunately the keys were not available. Now I have to try and figure out how to take it off, or get keys made so that I can. The racks should have been more sleek from the factory. It looks like duplo blocks with bars on my roof.

Should be different keys. just gonna have to get 002 set.

We typically refer our customers to a local lock smith if they misplace the keys.

There is a place on the web that will make you keys I just don't remember where

I used RockyMounts colored bike trays to match my car on the OEM rack. They too were hitting the spoiler when raising the hatch so I carefully measured where the rear tire of my longest bike (29'er mountainbike) hit the tray and sawed off an inch or so after that. Tray worked fine and no longer hit the hatch.

I purchased used crossbars for my MINI Countryman. The PO did not have the keys. After much searching and controversy I ordered keys directly from Thule. Two keys delivered for less than $10. The MINI locks only have a three numeric code (mine was 018). Thule requires a letter in front of the three digits, but the most popular and recent "N" code keys appear to work. I purchased N018 keys and they work perfectly.

Find a local locksmith, the dealer can't help with the keys for these. This happens when people trade a car in and don't turn in all their keys.

Try a local rack store. My Thule keys fit my oem rack. They'll have a set for sale or to borrow