Hi, im a new owner of a 2nd hand mini cooper 2002 R50 model. Just today my car has refused to lock. I've tried using the key fob to lock it but when I press the button it locks and unlocks straight away....I've tried inserting the key into the door to lock also but the car tried to fight it, I can only lock the doors if I hold the key in place in the door until the mechanism stops fighting it. If anyone knows how to fix this can you please let me know ASAP, thank you

 

I am having the same issue. I just bought it from a private party with the need for a new transmission. The doors will not stay locked.

 

Definitely check the battery, I had my whole car serviced and it still had the issue on and off, the battery needed to be changed as it had turned black and constantly needed charging or it would die - with that came a lot of electrical problems, my lights wouldn't work, or my dashboard lights wouldn't turn off even without the key in the ignition. It's been 3 weeks now with the new battery and so far everything is in working order (knock on wood). It could be many things, but I suggest looking at the battery as it may be on its way out, thus causing the electrical issues

 

Exact same thing is happening to me. Has anyone else figured this out or had luck with replacing the battery?