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Mini Car Key Cover It's Not As Expensive As You Think
Mini Replacement Key Fob

Modern key fobs offer more convenience than traditional mechanical backup keys. They permit car owners to lock their vehicle and start it by pressing a button.

But these devices wear out with time and replacements can be expensive, says Consumer Reports automotive analyst Mel Yu. Dealerships charge between $50 and $100 for replacement fobs and to program them into your vehicle.

How to Replace a Fob

Most cars have key fobs that unlock doors and turn on the engine. These devices are a handy element in our daily lives, but they can be costly to replace when they fail. The battery can fix most key fob issues. This simple task can save you from going to a car repair shop or dealership.

If changing the batteries doesn't work, try reprogramming the remote. Fobs get jostled around a often, and buttons may get misaligned and prevent the device from working properly. A professional can also help you to retrain your fob to recognize the new signals.

Certain models of vehicles require specialized codes to unlock and start the engine. These codes are usually given only to dealers and licensed locksmiths, with the equipment to program the fobs. The cost of programming these keys is approximately $200, and that includes an additional mechanical backup key.

You can save a few dollars by buying a replacement fob through an online seller or a local auto parts store According to Consumer Reports. However, these fobs must be programmed to match your vehicle. It is possible to have this done by a locksmith or a dealer, but you'll have to prove ownership. You can also determine whether your insurance or warranty covers the cost of replacing a fob.

Fobs with keys

Some fobs have keys which can be stored inside, while other fobs have a button that unlocks the door. If you're looking to replace an item that has traditional keys and locks, you'll need go to an automotive locksmith to get it programmed to work with your car.


Key fobs can be used for many things such as summoning your car to helping you find it if you are parked in a tight spot. They can also help you secure your windows and alarms, and open the trunk. Fobs come in a range of shapes and sizes, from basic rectangles to round models.

Fobs can be priced at $400 or more, and it could be even more to have them programmable to your vehicle, as explained by Consumer Reports. If you are unable to spend that amount, check with your auto insurance or warranty to find out whether they will cover the cost.

If your fob doesn't function well, you may be saving money by replacing the battery yourself. Most fob batteries are $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. You can follow the directions in the owner's manual or search for YouTube videos that will explain how to use it. Test your new battery and verify that it's functioning. If it's not working, you'll need to go to a licensed locksmith or dealer to program your key fob.

Fobs with Remote

Modern electronic key fobs offer the convenience and performance of manual keys. The technology is not foolproof and can fail in many ways. A dead battery is typically the reason for an issue with the fob. The Keylab can be replaced for less than $10 at the big-box stores or a hardware store. Many automakers include instructions on how to replace it in the owner's manual. If the fob doesn't work completely, it's likely time to replace one.

Although a replacement fob could be expensive, some DIYers save money by buying fobs that are aftermarket on the internet or at an auto-parts shop and then having them professionally programmed by a mechanic or locksmith. According to the CR, a professional can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 to program the fob on your vehicle.

Before you purchase a new fob, it is recommended to remove the old one's activation so it won't be used in a fraudulent manner or fall into the wrong hands (a service offered by BimmerTech). You can then have an additional fob installed, paired with your vehicle to ensure only the correct driver profiles are connected. This will protect your spouse or children from accidentally altering the settings of your car, such as the position of your mirror or the climate control. You can also use the fob to start your car.

Fobs with a Combination Key

Certain fobs can do more than simply lock and unlock your vehicle. Some fobs, for example will let you roll down your windows, or summon and automatically park your car.

Check the product details online to make sure that the key fobs you buy will work with your car model. Check the list of compatible vehicle models for each fob before you buy to make sure that it will work.

It is recommended to purchase replacement keys from the dealer if are driving a newer model. These key fobs are usually programmed by technicians to work with your vehicle. It's not uncommon to find them costing quite a bit.

A few department stores have replacement fobs for popular models. They're not guaranteed to fit correctly and may need professional programming or an electronic backup key laser-cut to work. The most reliable option, however, is to hire a professional auto locksmith who is able to provide the guarantee on their products and services. It is the fastest and most efficient way to obtain an operational fob should you lose or get yours stolen. They also have the equipment necessary to quickly cut and program the new fob.