In August of 2012 I bought a 2004 Mini Cooper S and with it came one non-remote key. I was looking to add a second key and have it be a remote key. After joining NAM and asking about keys, it became clear that the keys for 2002-2006 are a hotly debated subject and there is a lot of misinformation about them. So started my lengthy research on what can and can’t be done as far as adding keys to first generation Mini Coopers.
There is a ton of misinformation out there about coding keys for first generation Mini Coopers and this guide aims to educate as well as break down the mystique of these “smart” keys so that all is easily understood. Further, this guide aims to allow all who own/purchase used remote fobs to be able to code those remotes to their car. BMW/Mini (and Land Rover) did a great disservice to 02-04 Mini (and Land Rover) owners with the remotes and how they are programmed. I believe they realized how much of a problem they created with these early remotes and so redesigned the remote for 05-06 to alleviate some owner and dealer frustration.
Wording is a big issue when talking keys and remotes and in particular the word “program”. I will break down what needs to be done for each key to work with the car.
As is standard for today’s world, I must stress that this guide is meant as an info source only. I take no responsibility for anything that may happen to your car from using this guide. There is the potential that messing with programming may harm your car’s functions and may cause mental and financial stress. Take precautions and work carefully. Reading further into this guide, you do so at your own risk.