Replace Mini Key Fob Batteries
If your key fob comes with a battery that needs to be replaced, it's a relatively easy and cheap fix. Be aware that it may require reprogramming or activated.
This will ensure that your driver profile for your car is linked to the new key fob as well as all its settings such as mirror position and the seat position.
Battery
Modern key fobs are more convenient and efficient than the traditional flip key or car remote. This technology comes with some costs that is the battery in your key fob will eventually run out. If you leave it until it is completely dead, you may be stranded with no means to unlock your car. To avoid this, you should replace the battery of your car's key fob when you begin to start to notice signs of the power going out.
The LED light on a key fob can be used to test the battery's voltage. The battery is dead when the key fob buttons do not work when they are they are pressed. Fobs generally utilize small coin-shaped batteries known as CR2025 or CR2032. They are available at home improvement stores and a few auto parts stores. Ensure you purchase the correct type of battery as various fobs require specific cell thicknesses.
A voltmeter can be utilized to determine the voltage of the fob battery. A voltmeter should read about 3 Volts or higher for a quality battery. If the battery in your fob is less than 2.8 Volts it should be replaced. With the right tools, changing the battery on the fob is easy. You can find the instructions in the owner's manual, as well as numerous Youtube videos on the topic. Be careful not to damage the tabs made of plastic that secure the fob's pieces together.
Chip
It could be time to replace the battery if your key fob does not start to turn on when you press the lock/unlock buttons. You can purchase a replacement battery at a big-box retailer or a hardware store. Most fob batteries are $10 or less. Follow the instructions in the owner's manual, or on YouTube to replace it yourself.
Modern electronic keys offer greater convenience and functionality than traditional keys made of metal. They also serve as a deterrent against car theft. If you lose or break your key fob, you must be sure to disable it so that you can be sure that it doesn't fall into the wrong hands.
A key fob is equipped with an integrated security chip that transmits a direct signal to the ignition system of your car. This disables the immobiliser built into the engine control unit, and allows you to start your car without a key. This feature could cost up to $300 for an ignition key fob.
Some of the latest models have a switchblade that houses the metal part of your car key in plastic. Locksmiths can duplicate these keys for less than metal keys, however, the dealer needs to program them to allow the vehicle to start. Some dealers will do it at no or low cost, whereas others may charge. You can also find online stores that sell key fobs pre-programmed to work at very low prices. However, these online retailers usually require proof of ownership from buyers before sending their product.
Reprogramming
The first thought that pops into your mind when your key fob stops working is that it's broken and needs to be replaced. Before you visit the dealer, take a look at a few things.
Modern electronic keys are more convenient and useful than traditional keys. They can open and shut your car's doors, slide down your windows, call your car and even park your vehicle for you.
Replace the battery when your fob stops working properly. A dead battery can cause your device's functions to be affected or cease working completely. It's simple to replace the battery. Simply remove the battery, replace it and then insert it.
Another reason for a malfunctioning fob is that it has lost its driver profile. This feature lets the vehicle detect the driver who is using it and adjust the vehicle settings in accordance with the driver profile. This feature is particularly useful for families with multiple drivers in your household.
It's possible to get an additional fob from a third-party company, but it's important to choose a compatible model. The fob must be equipped with an application that communicates with the vehicle's immobiliser. While you can sometimes find replacement fobs on the internet however, they will not function as well as the original one and could damage your immobiliser unit.
Replacement
Key fobs in the present day do more than unlock or lock the car. They also serve as an additional security measure and deterrent. As such, they're very complicated pieces of hardware that are costly to replace if they are lost or broken. Although it is possible to have an old key cut by a locksmith, the latest smart keys have to be programmed by a dealership, and they can cost around $200.
Fortunately you can replace the battery in your BMW key fob is relatively simple. A new battery is available at an auto parts shop or at a big-box retailer for just less than $10. You'll need to take out your old battery, then carefully open the case. Then you can insert the new battery. Refer to the owner's guide for directions, as you do not want to damage the case by pushing it open.
Some of the more advanced key fobs can open your windows, call or even auto-park your car. It can be helpful to assign a Driver Profile to a duplicate MINI keyfob you wish to gift to a friend or another driver. This will allow you to alter their preferred settings for mirrors, seat and climate controls and much more.