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 ...

Most dealers we contacted said key-fob programming typically takes just 15-30 minutes, and the whole process, including cutting the mechanical spare key, rarely takes longer than an hour.

They have the expensive equipment required to program a new key fob. If you car’s a little older, Consumer Reports said you likely can save money with an after market fob.

Q: I want to get a key fob (I only have one) for my car. Can an aftermarket key fob be programmed by anyone other than the dealer? The dealer tells me it will cost $400 or slightly more.

Q. I have a key fob that I want to program for my Honda Accord. It is a used car that I purchased, and it only has one fob, and I found an aftermarket fob on-line for $50. The dealer wants to charg… ...