I'm looking to get a 2nd key for my 2011 MINI Hardtop. NO Comfort Access. Previous owner only gave me 1 key.

Called the BMW/MINI key replacement number (888) 575-5397 & they quoted $150 & they will ship it to dealer. Dealer said there won't be more charges & they need DL + registration when I pick it up.

Does this sound about right? Anyone has gone through this process?
Who will cut the valet metal key?

Also, any tutorials or videos about changing the key battery? (Is the battery replaceable?)

thanks!

 

That is the process for getting a replacement. You have to give them the VIN and proof of ownership. That can be done by fax or email then pick it up in person showing proof that you are you. $150.00 is the going price. Also, there is a little song and dance to introduce the key to your car and the shop can walk you thru that. Been there and ...won't say the rest, dislike cliches.
Somebody else can chime in on the battery. Beyond my experience.
DO NOT waste you time and money getting one from ebay or other off base source. This forum is rife with sad stories from those who did.

 

For the non-comfort-access keys, you have to cut the key fob open, de-solder the battery, solder the new battery in, and glue the fob back together again. They are "not user-serviceable".

 

+1 proof of VIN and everything, its a theft item.


Comfort access battery is replaceable,

Its a CR2032 battery

https://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/ES2682246/






NON CA you have to cut open.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...or-keyfob.html

 

Great. Thanks for all the info.

 

Welcome.

 

So I called 888-575-5397 today to order it & the rep put me on hold a few times to ask around & said the key isn't programmed & needs to be programmed by the dealer. Is that true?

I had talked to them twice before & they said it ships pre-programmed.

Called another dealer today & they checked my VIN & said it comes pre-programmed & I gotta put the key in & after a few seconds the MINI recognizes the key.

 

UPDATE

Ordered the key from MIN (888-575-5397) & got it the next day. It was already pre-programmed for my car & the metal/valet key was also already cut for the doors. It worked perfectly. Total was $150 + tax

Only issue is that the key they sent is not new & is used. So I don't know how long is left on the battery. I assumed they send a new key with a new battery. Called them again & they're going to get back to me.

 

Used, never heard of the dealership selling a used key fob ?

 

Yeah, it should've been new.

Called a couple dealers & they also said they should have sent a brand new key & not a used one.
Since I ordered it directly from MINI, dealer says I have to deal with MINI.

 

I tried calling this number and found it is only for Cali, every other state must go through the local dealer

 

Yea, its a coded / security thing.

 

I don't think it has a battery...recharges when in the ignition. Supposed to rotate keys to keep them charged, but I've never used my other key in four years.