The problem actually has nothing to do with the tires, ditching the stupid run flats is something I should have done right away. The problem is that the person that drove my car while at the tire shop must not have known how to use the disc style key and completely screwed up the disc ignition system. The disc no longer just slides in prior to startup and slides back out upon shut off. I have to struggle to get it in and out. Sometimes I have to pull so hard on it to get it out that I feel like I am going to pull the dash off. I phoned the tire shop right away when I got home and discovered this problem and I will be talking to the manager on Monday demanding the he pay for the part to be fixed.

Has anyone had any issues like this and how did you fix it if you were able to? Thanks.

 

If you are struggling with it you can use the emergency backup system!

Stick the FOB in the slot (but don't need to click it in).
Press and hold the start button for something like 30 seconds. The car will start for you!

I just would hate to have the fob stuck in the dash.

 

wow, yet another reason to say: "Thanks, but please allow me to drive the car in and out of your service bay."

 

I not only asked if he was famialier with the Mini Fob but I was with him and watched very closely as he started my Mini and drove it into the shop. He said they do a lot of Mini Coopers there so he was famialure with them even to resetting the TPMS.

I also watched to make certain that he did not yank my drivers door glass or slam my door. He was very careful with my car and treated it fine.

 

there are shops and there are shops

A good shop doesn't mind if you watch . . . a really good shop allows you in the garage. But this shop is probably a small independent. Chains will throw the "insurance reasons" flag on you. I try to avoid them.

Some chains have a simple row of bays and they can't stop you from standing right outside .... and yelling STOP!!!!!