North American Motoring

Mini Cooper 2001-2006: How to Fix Key Fob that Won't Lock/Unlock

There are a few things that can go wrong with your MINI Cooper's key fob that could prevent it from operating properly. Read on to learn how to fix it.

By Bassem Girgis - July 12, 2016

This article applies to the 1st Gen MINI Cooper (2001-2006).

Your key fob provides the seamless means of getting in and out of your MINI Cooper. Although you can unlock the door without using the actual remote, it is still a bit of an inconvenience. If you press on your key fob to lock or unlock your doors and nothing happens, then you are in the right place. It's common that the dealership would charge you for a replacement key fob, which can set you back a few hundred dollars. Before going to your MINI Cooper dealership or any auto shop, try following the steps below to fix and reprogram the fob. First make sure your key fob's battery is working properly, then read on to learn how to fix this issue if it persists after replacing the battery.

Materials Needed

  • Your key fob

Step 1 – Unlock the car

Use the key to get into your car. If you can't unlock the car with the remote, then sit in the driver's seat and close the door. Use the toggle switch to lock your car doors.

Figure 1. Lock the doors from the inside using the toggle switch below the A/C controls.

Step 2 – Insert key in ignition

Insert your key into the ignition, turn it until the dash lights turn on, then turn it off. Repeat this four times in a row without removing the key in between each time.

Figure 2. Insert key in ignition.

Step 3 – Remove key and reprogram fob

Right after turning the key back and forth four times, remove the key from the ignition, then hold the unlock button on the remote and press the lock button. With the unlock button pressed down, let go of the lock button then press it for a total of three times; on the third time, release both buttons at the same time. The car will lock itself at this point, which is your sign that you've successfully reprogrammed your key and fixed your issue. Again, the process is outlined below:

  1. Remove key from ignition
  2. Hold Unlock button and press Lock button on remote
  3. Still holding Unlock button, let go of Lock button and press it three times
  4. On the third press, release both buttons simultaneously

Figure 3. Center emblem is the lock button.

Related Discussions