R57 Remote won't lock/unlock doors
 

I am hoping someone can help me. I have a 2009 R57 and neither remote will lock or unlock the doors (or trunk). Both remotes:

• start the car
• emit a signal (I got a cheap tester that confirms they are both producing a signal).

Background: Both remotes did work. The car battery had a low charge (not enough driving when my daughter headed off to college). Not sure whether that is a factor, but thought I would mention it....
Also, the fuses appear to be OK.

I read online that the issue may be with the antenna in the rearview mirror. I got a new rearview mirror and plugged it in, but no change (are there additional steps to this?).

At this point, I do not know what to do...any suggestions?

Car: 2009 Mini Cooper Convertible S

The remotes may need to be 'paired' to the receiver. The fob batteries need to be well proximity-charged, which takes a while, you may be able to use a toothbrush charger. Instructions should be in the Owners Manual.
Make sure the door lock works OK with the key blade.

Thanks. The keys should be pretty well charged (a lot of driving with them in the ignition), but I will look into a toothbrush or smartwatch charger (just to make sure)

The key blades were apparently never cut for the car (we bought the car a couple of years ago and never checked the key blades). This makes the issue a little bigger since we can't lock the car. from the outside of the car. The locks do work with the switch on the dash.

How would I pair the remotes to the receiver? Is that something I can do myself?

If the key blades are not cut, I'd assume they are replacements. It might be worth ordering one, new, complete fob & cut key from the $$$ealer, about $250+/-. Try them in the door anyway.
'Pairing' instructions will be in the Owners Manual (you do have one?) or from the dealer - I have them for the early R53 but I imagine it is different for the R57. It's just a series of button presses on the fob.

At least one of the keys came directly from the dealer (I bought the car from the dealer and they got me the second fob). It looks like they were cheap and did not have it cut for the car.

If anyone has advice on how to pair I would appreciate it - I do not see that info in the manual.

Alternatively, if someone has other suggestions it would be greatly appreciated.

David
Try a search on this forum - there are several other similar threads.

I have searched but never found an answer. :confused: Maybe my search skills are not the greatest (I will blame it on my age), but any pointers would be appreciated.