My mom recently lost the spare set of keys for her 2006 Subaru. The dealer wanted more than $300 to replace the key fob and make a new key. That seemed outrageous, so we started digging into DIY alternatives. We discovered that we weren’t alone in our concerns.
“I started Tom’s Key Company out of frustration at the cost and difficulty in getting a spare key or remote programmed to my vehicle,” says Mike Wessman, who started Tom’s Key Company to help DIYers do just that. “Plus, over 50% of used cars are sold with a single key.”
The good news is that for most vehicle models, you can program your own fob and smart key. But the cost and complexity of the tools needed will depend on the age and model of your vehicle. Here’s what to know, plus resources for programming your own car fob.
How Do Key Fobs Work?
Key fobs — aka smart keys, remote keys and proximity keys — contain a digital fingerprint, or serial number, which your vehicle’s computer (ECU) recognizes. When you press a fob button and/or come into close proximity to your vehicle, the code is sent via radio frequency to activate specific systems, such as unlocking the doors, opening the rear hatch and sliding doors, triggering a panic alarm, or starting the engine.
Over the years, keys and fobs have evolved. “We used to just have keys, then keys and a separate fob, then keys with the fob built into the key head, and then the key went away, leaving just a fob and a push-to-start button,” says master certified technician Chris Pyle.
Programming Key Fobs For Older Vehicles (Pre-2010)
If you have a pre-2010 vehicle, chances are that programming your own key and fob will be an inexpensive and simple DIY task. You’ll need to purchase a generic key fob, which is widely available online as well as at some hardware stores. Next, programming it (aka onboard programming) typically involves cycling the key on and off rapidly for a set number of times, while pushing various fob buttons. It might also include sequences of opening doors and pushing brake pedals.
To find specifics on how to program your car’s fob, Wessman recommends programyourremote.com and programautokeys.com. You can also find procedures on YouTube, and sometimes in the car’s owner’s manual.
In the case of my mom’s car, even though hers was pre-2010, her ignition key also contained a smart chip. That complicated the process, putting it in the category of a more modern vehicle.
Programming Key Fobs For Modern Vehicles
Newer vehicles have more advanced security and technology systems; therefore, programming their fobs and keys requires more sophisticated equipment, including a scan tool. “The good news is that plenty of DIYers do have scan tools,” says Pyle. “The ones that have security access, though, are often very expensive, costing over $500.”
Companies like Tom’s Key Company can assist with the process by cutting a new key blade from a photo of your key and then mailing you a programming tool. “It’s an easy DIY project that take about 10 minutes and saves hundreds of dollars,” says Wessman. For most vehicles, it costs around $150.
Keep in mind, aftermarket alarms and remote starts can create complications. You’ll also need to visit a dealer if your car has had more than three keys/fobs programmed already.
Security and Legality Issues
There are no legal or security issues with programming car fobs yourself, say Wessman and Pyle. “It is your car, you can do as you please as long as you have the skills and tools to complete the job,” says Pyle.
However, on rare occasions, DIY programming can disable electrical features, illuminate dashboard warning lights or create problems with the ECU, which would then require a fix from a locksmith or dealer. “Nissan and Infiniti owners in particular should be aware that the first step in this manufacturer’s programming of a proximity key is to erase all existing keys,” says Wessman. “If instructions are not followed correctly, the vehicle will have no keys saved in the memory.”
Why Dealerships Charge High Fees for Key Fobs
“Because they can,” says auto industry expert Melanie Musson. “You need to have a key, or you can’t drive your car. Part of the cost is that the fobs contain advanced technology, but they’re still more expensive than they need to be.”
Can a Locksmith Program My Key Fob?
Yes, locksmiths can provide and program the fobs for most vehicles, plus they typically charge less than a dealership. To do the job, they will likely need all existing keys and fobs, plus the vehicle, says Pyle.
FAQ
My fob buttons work (locks/unlocks), but the car won’t start — why?
If you have a fob with a push-button start, it might be a failing fob or dead battery. It could also indicate problems with computers, brake lights, anti-theft systems or the starter, says Pyle.
Can a cheap aftermarket fob damage my car?
No. A more common problem is that an aftermarket fob won’t work with all of the features, or needs to be closer to the vehicle to operate. When buying an aftermarket FOB, Pyle also recommends choosing a higher-quality model, which will likely be more durable.
About the Experts
- Mike Wessman is owner of Tom’s Key Company, which helps customers DIY spare car keys and fobs. He also hosts the Tom’s Key Company DIY YouTube channel.
- Chris Pyle is a master-certified technician with 20-plus years of automotive experience. He has also worked as an expert for JustAnswer.com since 2006.
- Melanie Musson is an auto industry expert with Cleaersurance.com. https://clearsurance.com/
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