Hello

I have 2007 Cooper with No comfort access option. My issue is with one of my Key Fobs not starting the vehicle when it is placed into the key holder. Press the "Engine Start" button and nothing happens... it appears that the Key Fob chip is not communicating with the Anti-Theft module. Other than this, the Key Fob rechargable battery is functioning correctly as I am able to use all three buttons - Unlock & Lock Door and Open the Boot.

My spare Key Fob, which I have starting using is giving me no issues with vehicle start or cycling locks.

My Question, is has anybody experienced this same issue and has anyone been able to fix this issue via reprogramming the fob, without shelling out $200 for a new key?

Also, has anybody tried to open one of these un-serviceable key fobs to inspect the circuit board? It appears that the Key Fob supplier (Valeo Automotive Products) has used some sort of plastic glue to seal the unit.

I do have a background in Automotive with a very limited knowledge of keyless entry and anti-theft systems. Any input into this issue would be great appreciated.

 

I did not have that precise issue, BUT, your statement about using the backup fob raised a red flag for me.

On my Mini, we were using one fob exclusively, and misplaced it and started using the 2nd fob. All heck broke loose - the Clubman doors opened on their own, windows would not roll down, the trip odometers and gas usage calculators constantly reset themselves, The radio lost its presets every time the car was started, etc. It was like the car was possessed.

When I took the car to the dealer to be fixed, they told me that the problem was that the data stored in the fob was very outdated vs. the current status of the car and that it was trying to update itself. In doing the updates, it was resetting things on the car, opening doors, etc. Once it had reset itself - everything started working properly again.
The dealer suggested using both fobs on a regular basis to keep the problem from happening again. We do, and the problem has not returned.

To me, that does not explain why your primary fob is not starting the car. But if your Mini starts acting like it is possessed when you are using the backup, now you will know why.

 

One of my wife's fobs stoped working.

The car did not respond when it was inserted in the dash.

She had only been home for about 20 minutes and was going out agin and it did not work.

Got the spare out and it has worked fine.

sorry to say we have not done anything other then determine that they are not supposed to be servicable.