One thing’s for sure, though: if you have a car manufactured within the last 10 years, it likely has a key fob. So what happens when your key fob has an issue? If you think you need a key fob replacement, here are some tips to do it the right way:

1. Don’t Go Straight to a Dealer

It might seem like the easiest option to go straight to your dealer for a key fob replacement, but you might want to think twice about this idea. For starters, it can be much more expensive to go to a dealer than your other options. Secondly, you might have to endure a lengthy wait. Then there’s always the possibility that it might just need a simple repair. While you might have to go to a dealer depending on your automobile’s manufacturer, other options will save you time, and money.

2. See If It Can Be Reprogrammed or Repaired

Sometimes, a key fob is working correctly, but there’s a problem with the outer shell. Other times, the fob simply needs to be reprogrammed. Either option is cheaper than replacing the entire key fob, so make sure that you don’t need a replacement first.

3. Make Sure You Have at Least Two Fobs on Hand

Whether your key fob is lost or damaged, it’s a good idea to have a spare on hand. If you lose the only key fob you own, you’ll be in a tough situation. If you’re down to one, get a second fob made while you can.

4. Check Your Warranty

Before you pay for that key fob replacement, check your warranty to see if a damaged or lost key fob is eligible for replacement. This applies to extended warranties as well.

5. See if an Aftermarket Fob Is an Option

As hinted at in the first tip, some car manufacturers (like Audi) design their key fobs so that you can’t buy a new aftermarket key fob anywhere. This enhances the security, sure, but it is more expensive, inconvenient and limiting when it comes to options. Many European cars don’t have aftermarket fobs available.

6. Ask for an Auto Locksmith’s Opinion

Not sure whether your key fob can be replaced or repaired? Have questions about the best route to take? An auto locksmith can often guide you toward the correct decision. If you have limited car or security knowledge, this is extremely helpful.

7. Consider Other Security Upgrades

While you’re replacing your key fob, you might as well consider other security upgrades for your car. Need a spare key or fob? Want more security with a laser-cut key? Want a different type of lock? An auto locksmith can help with any of these requests.
If you’re in need of a key fob replacement (or any other automotive locksmith service), contact the team at A-1 Locksmith today.

Unfortunately, if a car owner misplaces his or her key fob, or wants to make an extra copy, the dealership may claim that they have proprietary rights over the device, and, as such, only they can make a copy, and program it, which comes with an absurd fee. In reality, however, while creating a new key fob, as well as programming it to work with your car, may require the assistance of a professional, a skilled locksmith can aid you with this effort without requiring you to head back to the dealership for help.

But Wait – is it Against the Law to Make a New Key Fob without the Dealer’s Permission?

Some dealers may even assert that creating a new key fob is against the law if this task is not performed by a licensed operator. But while this may be the case with a leased or rented car, it is likely within your rights to make as many copies as you would like with the help of a professional.

And getting a key fob programmed to operate with your car is certainly not an extensive task, either. While you should not attempt to make a copy yourself, with the help of a professional locksmith you can have a new key fob in relatively short order.

Contact A-1 Locksmith Today – We Can Help You with Your Key Fob

If you have lost the key fob to your new car, or you would like a new one made to give to a friend or a family member, don’t head back to the dealership. Instead, reach out to the professionals at A-1 Locksmith today in Dallas. We have experience programming key fobs, and we have been offering our expertise to residents of the DFW for over 65 years. Call us today, and learn how we can be of assistance.