Electrical - Battery Discharges With Key In Ignition

Electrical - Battery Discharges With Key In Ignition

SI M 61 13 06

General Electrical Systems

October 2006

Technical Service

This Service Information bulletin supersedes S.M. M61 200 04 dated May 2002-2006.

SUBJECT

Battery Discharge with Key Inserted in Ignition Lock

MODEL

R50 (Cooper), R53 (Cooper S)

SITUATION

There is a possibility of the battery eventually discharging if the driver leaves the vehicle parked up for a long period without removing the key from

the ignition lock completely.

CAUSE

2002-2006 Mini Cooper (R50) L4-1.6L (W10) Page 239

If the key is not removed from the ignition lock completely (semi-removed status), there is a critical distance between the key and the ring antenna

where the EWS will detect statuses permanently changing between "key inserted" and "key removed". This will result in a permanent closed circuit

current of approximately 800mA.

PROCEDURE

In the event of a complaint, explain to customer that he should either leave the key fully in the ignition lock or remove the key from the ignition lock

completely.

Parts replacement does not provide a remedy.