First, I have tried the key relearn a few times without success. I am pretty sure my key battery is just not charging anymore.

Questions
1 - I know the battery can be replaced via soldering. I don't want to try this myself, but does someone know of someone who does this service?
2 - I also have seen someone who has purchased a generic remote and got it to work with the locks through the key learn procedure. I have found those for 2002-2005, but it looks like the 2006 may be different? Does anyone have information on an aftermarket remove fob?
3- Does anyone have any contact on info on the best dealer to buy a new key from?... but I would still like to get my current key working.

Key works fine as per vehicle starting.

Any info is appreciated!

 

A poster on here valvashon seems to be a go to source for key info/repair.
Mini Parts Mass usually has a good price.

 

There are several threads on this, but here you go
1) Yes Valvashon does this. look him up on NAM
2) I believe you can buy an old 3 button remote and program the remote to your car, like $10 on ebay
3) I just bought a key from Mini in Seattle, paid $159 for a cut key shipped. I just had to program the remote.

Valvashon is definitely the person you wanna contact if you are considering steps 1 or 2 as he has the most information and steered me in the right direction.

 

Thanks for the info. This is exactly what I needed. $159 is a great price. I was quoted closer to $300 at my local MINI. It is ridiculous that MINI does not have a direct purchase option as the dealer is just the go between.

 

I had a similar issue with my MCS convertible (also a 2006). Do you have both keys? The odds of the battery dying on both is pretty low (especially since they're rechargeable) . Some auto parts store have a machine where you can test if the key fob battery is good (I remember it being sponsered by Energizer) You push a button on your key and a light comes up to show if it's transmitting or not.
In my case, the problem was with the module located in the rear view mirror. My module died for some reason when I had my car battery run down during the winter in storage. Got a mirror for 10 bucks from the scrapyard and swapped out the module. If you have a friend with a Mini, try to swap mirrors to see if you can get it to pair.