When the battery is removed from the key fob, the fob can lose its ‘memory’ or programming. If the key fob is not working after replacing its battery, a reprogramming procedure may be required.

And that’s just for the fob. Add another $50 to $100 to get replacement fobs programmed to work with your car and to have a new mechanical backup key made.

But maybe you’ve experienced the downside: The cost to replace the latest key fobs can be as much as $400 depending on the brand. Then add another $20 to $130 to program it to work with your car.

Locksmiths might not be able to program fobs for every brand. Another option is to buy a key fob online and then have it programmed at a dealership or by a locksmith.

Just know that most customer-programmable key fobs will require two current working keys in order to program the new one. RELATED: How to replace your key fob | Your key fob may have hidden features ...

Like anything else relying on a battery, you car key fob can die—often at the worst time. Thankfully, these batteries are easy to replace.

If you find yourself locked outside your Lexus with a dead key fob in your hand, don't panic, since there is a way to save the situation ...

The key fob is your lifeline to your car, letting you unlock the doors and set off the alarm, at a minimum, but how can you ...

The fob for your Chevrolet should work for years, but eventually, the battery will need replacing. When you look at the fob, it might not be obvious how to do this. In some cases, you just slide a ...

Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. The days of replacing a car key by having an ...