I've had my mini for a year now so this feels like a really stupid question, but is there a way to lock the doors without using the fob when exiting the vehicle? When the drive door is open, the center console lock toggle won't do it, pressing down on the lock stem on the door will not do it (which also begs the question what the hell are those stems for anyway?)

 

You can't press the drivers side lock plunger while the door is open. Most cars don't allow mechanically locking the drivers door while it is open, to prevent people from getting accidentally locked out.

But you can set the lock when the drivers door is closed. You have to go in from the passenger side and reach over and press the plunger down. Then press the passenger side plunger before closing the door.

 

Oh the the joy of Comfort Access. It it's a wonderful option, that should be standard.

 

How about using the key inserted in the drivers door. Turn it to the right and the doors and tailgate lock.

You can also close windows and sunroof if you've left them open after removing the key. Hold the key for a few seconds and the windows and roof will close as long as you're holding the key to the right.

And those stems serves as indicators that the doors are locked or unlocked.

That said, what's the beef with using the remote?

 

It first came up when I was walking the dog and noticed the car was not locked. I had to go back inside to get the fob to lock the car.

Also in winter I often get out of the car with my hands full of stuff: gloves, hat, coffee, etc... It's just easier to lock the car before getting out rather than trying to juggle all that stuff and the fob as well.