Key Fob Replacement & Programming in Palm Beach & Broward County
Fob stopped working, smart key lost, or a remote from online that won’t pair? LockFox replaces and programs key fobs and push-to-start keys at your vehicle — and tells you straight when a new battery is all you need.
Try this first: is it just the battery?
A weak battery is the most common reason a fob acts up, and it costs a few dollars to fix. Signs it’s the battery:
- You have to stand closer to the car or press the button several times
- The fob’s LED is dim or doesn’t light at all
- The dashboard shows a “key battery low” or “key not detected” message
- A second fob for the same car still works fine
Most fobs use a coin-cell battery. The battery type is printed on the old battery itself and listed in your owner’s manual. If your push-to-start car won’t recognize a dying fob, the manual also shows a backup start method — on many cars you hold the fob against the start button or place it in a marked spot in the console.
If a fresh battery doesn’t fix it, the fob may have lost its pairing, or the circuit board may be damaged. Drops, a trip through the washing machine, and a dunk in a pool or the ocean are the usual culprits in South Florida — saltwater in particular corrodes the contacts. That’s when you need reprogramming or a replacement fob.
Fobs and smart keys we program
Remote head keys
Key blade and lock/unlock buttons in one head. The blade is cut, and both the transponder chip and the remote are programmed.
Flip keys
The blade folds into the remote housing. The blade, chip and buttons all need to match your car.
Separate keyless-entry remotes
A remote on the key ring next to a separate key. The remote is paired to the car’s keyless-entry system.
Smart / proximity keys
For push-to-start ignitions. The car senses the key nearby to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start.
Emergency key blades
Most smart keys hide a small metal blade for the door lock. If yours is missing, a new one can be cut to match.
Lost your only smart key?
That’s an all-keys-lost job. See car key replacement for how it works.
Onboard programming vs. tool programming
Onboard programming. Some vehicles let the owner add a remote using a sequence of ignition turns, door-lock presses and button presses. This usually only works for the remote buttons, and often only when you already have one or two working keys. Your owner’s manual will say whether your car supports it.
Tool programming. Most newer vehicles, every smart key, and every all-keys-lost situation need a programming tool connected to the car’s diagnostic (OBD-II) port under the dash. Some systems also require a security code or PIN from the manufacturer before a new key can be added.
Bring every key you want to keep. On many vehicles, programming a new fob clears keys that aren’t present, so bring all working keys and fobs to the appointment.
OEM, aftermarket, or a fob you bought online?
OEM (factory) fobs match the original exactly and generally cost the most. Quality aftermarket fobs are built to work with the same system and usually cost less. Either one still has to be programmed to your car.
Fobs bought online can work, but they’re the most common source of trouble. The part number and FCC ID on the new fob need to match your original, and many previously used fobs are locked to their first vehicle and can’t be reprogrammed. Before you buy one, or before we come out to program one, text us a photo of both fobs (front and back) and your year, make and model so we can check compatibility first.
What affects the price
- Fob type: remote head, flip key, separate remote or smart key
- Year, make and model, and whether a security code is required
- OEM vs. aftermarket fob
- Adding a spare vs. replacing your only key
- Time of day and where the vehicle is
Call with your vehicle details to check service availability and discuss an estimate. Ask what programming, parts and any other applicable charges are included before authorizing work.
What to have ready
- Photo ID and registration or title in your name
- Year, make, model and VIN
- All existing keys and fobs for the vehicle
- Any fob you bought yourself, in its packaging
- Where the car is, plus any gate code or garage level
Key fob information by make
Remote and smart-key systems differ by manufacturer and model year. Find your vehicle in the Car Key Finder or jump to a popular make. Common requests include the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue and Hyundai Tucson.
Key fob programming across both counties
We program fobs and smart keys wherever the vehicle is parked in Palm Beach and Broward County — driveway, office lot or condo garage.
Key fob programming FAQ
How do I know if my key fob needs a battery or reprogramming?
Replace the battery first. Short range, repeated button presses or a “key battery low” message usually mean a weak battery. If a fresh battery doesn’t help, the fob likely needs reprogramming or replacement.
Can I program a key fob myself?
Some vehicles support onboard programming of the remote buttons, usually only when you already have working keys. Most newer vehicles, smart keys and all-keys-lost situations need a professional programming tool.
Can you program a key fob I bought online?
Sometimes. The fob must match your vehicle’s part number and FCC ID, and many used fobs are locked to their original car. Text us photos of both fobs and your vehicle details so we can check before you pay for a visit.
Do I need to bring all my keys when a new fob is programmed?
Yes. On many vehicles, programming clears any key that isn’t present, so bring every key and fob you want to keep working.
What’s the difference between a key fob and a smart key?
A key fob usually means a remote with lock and unlock buttons, used with a key you insert. A smart key (proximity key) lets you unlock and push-to-start while it stays in your pocket or bag.
My push-to-start car says “key not detected.” What should I do?
Try the backup start method in your owner’s manual and replace the fob battery. If the message continues with a new battery, the fob may be damaged or unpaired — call us.
Do you come to me to program the fob?
Yes. LockFox is a 24/7 mobile locksmith covering all of Palm Beach and Broward County, so programming is done at your vehicle.
Fob not working?
Call or text your year, make and model. If it sounds like a battery, we’ll tell you before anyone drives out.
Related: automotive locksmith services · car lockout · ignition repair
Key Fob & Smart Key Programming near you
City-specific pages with local details: