You can still unlock and start your MINI using your device, even if your phone needs to be charged.

With For iOS devices, ensure that Express Mode is enabled for your Digital Key. When your battery is low, press the side (or Home) button, and you can use your Digital Key via NFC for up to five hours after your iPhone enters power reserve mode. For Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy, as long as you have a lock screen set up, you can use your Digital Key via NFC for several hours after the device goes into power reserve.

While a second physical key is no longer necessary, you can order an additional physical key through your MINI Retailer at an associated cost. If you wish to have two physical keys at the time of delivery, this can be arranged as soon as the vehicle's VIN is available.

The Digital Key is securely stored in the Secure Element of your smartphone or smartwatch, operating at a hardware level. It communicates exclusively using local technologies such as NFC and UWB. While malicious software can compromise software-based vehicle keys, it is nearly impossible to breach hardware security. The Secure Element operates as a separate component running its own operating system with encryption designed to protect sensitive information, this is also where Apple Pay or Google Pay wallet information is stored. Additionally, mobile service or internet connectivity is not required to use the Digital Key once it is set up

If your phone containing the main key gets lost or stolen, you should immediately enter your vehicle using the physical key and delete the main key via the Digital Key Menu in the CID. The old main key will also be automatically removed when a new main key is created on a different device. If a friend’s or family member’s device with a shared key is lost or stolen, revoke access to that device through your smartphone wallet app or via the vehicle CID.

With extended sharing, you can now share your Digital Key with up to 18 devices on select models, providing greater flexibility for sharing with friends and family. Currently, extended sharing is available only on iOS and requires an update to version 18.4. Android devices are expected to receive this enhancement in late 2025. In all other cases without extended sharing, you can still share the Digital Key with up to 5 devices. With the extended sharing function, there is no need for the additional step to input the activation code within the vehicle CID.

The recommended solution is to utilize the Service Card included in the glove box of each vehicle. Once activated, the Service Card becomes a fully functional key that can be used for test drives, rentals, and corporate fleet operations, while the physical key is securely stored with the company as a backup. It’s important to note that the Service Card cannot be deactivated on its own without the authorization of another key.

If you get a new smartphone, make sure to activate the Service Card before resetting your old phone, or bring the physical key fob to retain access to your vehicle. Digital wallet certificates, such as MINI Digital Key Plus, are not transferred and must be set up again on the new device. You can easily set it up on your new phone using the Setup Card.

No, a MINI ID must be logged in and mapped to the vehicle to activate and deactivate the Service Card. If the Service Card is needed in addition to the physical key fob for retailer operations prior to delivery, it is recommended that retailers log in to their own MINI ID to activate the Service Card and factory reset all settings before customer delivery. For detailed instructions on how to activate or deactivate the Service Card, please refer to the Service Card Activation Guide.

If you misplace your Setup Card or Service Card, please reach out to your retailer to order a new card. As these are coded parts, there can only be one active Setup or Service Card at a time.

The MINI Digital Key (applicable to the MINI Cooper Convertible) utilizes the Near Field Communication (NFC) mobile standard, requiring you to hold your mobile device to the door handle to unlock or lock your vehicle. In contrast, the MINI Digital Key Plus employs ultra-wideband (UWB) and Bluetooth technology, allowing your vehicle to unlock or lock automatically as you approach or walk away. It also pushes your personalized MINI ID profile automatically to the vehicle as you enter. To start the car with the MINI Digital Key, you must place your phone in the wireless charging tray. With MINI Digital Key Plus, you simply need to have your phone inside the vehicle. Overall, Digital Key Plus provides a touch-free and enhanced vehicle access experience.