Think You're The Perfect Candidate For Doing Mini Car Key Cover? Take This Quiz Mini Replacement Key Fob


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

Mel Yu, Automotive analyst at Consumer Reports, says that these devices are prone to be damaged and need replacement. Dealerships charge between $50-$100 for replacement fobs and programming them to your vehicle.

How to replace a fob

The majority of cars have key fobs that unlock doors and start the engine. These devices are a convenient addition to our daily lives but they can also be expensive to replace when they fail. Fortunately, the majority of problems with key fobs aren't too complicated or difficult to fix and can be resolved by simply replacing the battery. This simple task will save you from having to go to a car repair shop or dealership.

If changing the batteries doesn't work, you can try reprogramming the remote. Fobs tend to be jostled and buttons can get misaligned. This stops the device from functioning correctly. A professional can help you train your fob to recognize the new signals.

Certain models of cars require a specialized code to unlock the vehicle and to start the motor. These codes are typically given only to dealers and licensed locksmiths, who have the tools to program the fobs. Programming mini cooper car key about $200, plus the cost of a new mechanical backup key.

You can save some money by buying a replacement fob from an online retailer or a local auto-parts store According to Consumer Reports. However, these fobs must be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be done by the dealership or by a licensed locksmith however, you'll require proof of ownership in order to speed up the process. You can also find out whether your warranty or insurance covers the cost to replace a fob.

Fobs with a key

Certain fobs come with a key which can be stored in the interior, while others include a button that unlocks the door. If you need to replace an old fob that is equipped with traditional keys you'll need to go to an automotive locksmith in order to get it programmed to work with your vehicle.

Key fobs are able to perform many things including summoning your car to helping you find it when parked in a tight spot. They can also be used to secure your windows, set off an alarm and then open the boot. Fobs are available in many shapes and sizes. From basic rectangles to rounded models, they come in all kinds of sizes and shapes.

Consumer Reports explains that fobs can cost up to $400, and they can even cost more if want to program them into your vehicle. If you can't afford to spend that much money be sure to check with your vehicle's insurance or warranty to determine whether they will cover the cost.

If your fob's not working well, you may be able to save money by replacing the battery yourself. Most fob batteries cost $10 or less and can be found at hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. Follow the steps in your owner's guide, or look for YouTube videos that will explain how to use it. Test your new battery to verify that it's working. If not, then you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to program your key fob.

Fobs with a Remote

Modern electronic key fobs offer the convenience and utility of traditional manual keys. However they aren't 100% reliable and may fail in different ways. If your car's fob begins to malfunction then a dead battery is typically the cause. You can replace the battery for less than $10 at an hardware store or big-box retailer, and many automakers will provide instructions on how to do it yourself in the owner's manual. If the fob ceases to function completely, it's most likely the time to purchase a new one.

While replacing a fob can be expensive, some do-it-yourselfers save money by buying fobs on the market online or from an auto-parts retailer and then having them professionally programmed by a mechanic or a locksmith. According to CR, a professional may charge between $100 and $200 for programming the fob into your vehicle.

Before you purchase a new fob, make sure you remove the old one from service so that it can't be misused or be taken into the wrong hands (a service provided by BimmerTech). Then, you can get a new fob put in place and paired with your car to ensure that only appropriate driver profiles are attached to it. This will prevent your partner or children from accidentally altering the settings in your car, for example the mirror's position or climate control. You can also use the fob to start your car.

Fobs with a Combination Key

Some fobs are more than just lock and unlock your car. For instance certain fobs allow you to lower the windows or even summon and auto-park your car (for those with a bit of an ego).

It is essential to review the product details on aftermarket key fobs online to ensure they are compatible with the model of your car. Make sure you check the list of compatible models for each fob prior to you buy to make sure that it will work.

If you have a more recent vehicle, it's best to contact the dealer for replacement keys. The key fobs are typically programmed by an expert to work with your vehicle. It's not uncommon for them to cost a lot.

If you're in need, a few department stores may have replacement fobs for popular models. However they're not guaranteed to be the right for your needs and may require professional programming or a laser-cut backup key in order to function correctly. In the end, the most secure option is to use an auto locksmith, who will provide a guarantee on their products and services. It is the fastest and easiest method to obtain an operational fob if you lose or have yours stolen. They also have the tools required to cut quickly and program an entirely new fob.