Welcome to M/A! Sometimes eBay has used keys. However, they need to be re-programmed for YOUR car. I have no idea how expensive that is, but it IS a suggestion. Good luck!![]()
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wmwny Well-Known Member
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Steve AdministratorStaff Member Articles Moderator
I did a bunch of research into these fobs when mine stopped working a couple years ago. Turned out in my case all I needed to do was replace the battery (very easy, by the way) but another thing I learned was you can buy an empty shell (MUCH cheaper than a blank, unprogrammed key) and just transfer the internals (don't forget the chip!) and the blade. I remember it seemed really easy to do. Mine's an '02, don't know whether any of this would apply to whatever fob came with your '06.
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A cheaper option for a second key if you don't have one is the "general, non-remote" key. You can get one at the dealer for under $100. A dealer is the only place you can easily get a key that works for your car.
Pictures of a recently repaired three button key are on the MINI Key Hospital facebook page- https://www.facebook.com/minikeyhospital
You can e-mail me at "minikeyhospital (at) earthlink (dot) net. I have repaired dozens of keys for MINI owners and I can help you too.
Dr. Bruce Hart
MINI Key Hospital -
I case you do need to get a new one from the dealer they'll need your DL and vehicle registration. Those can be scanned and emailed if you want but you have to pick up the key in person and it will need to be initialized. Just danced this jig last spring.