Can I sell my old Lexus key fob?

Yes. You can sell a used Lexus key fob, but you should protect your vehicle’s security and ensure the buyer can use it safely. The safest route is to have the fob de-programmed from your vehicle at an authorized dealership or locksmith before transferring it.

Key fobs for Lexus vehicles are part of the car’s immobilizer system. If you plan to sell the fob separately, verify compatibility with the buyer’s vehicle and arrange deactivation or reprogramming so the old fob cannot access your car. This article explains how these fobs work, how to sell them safely, and how to price and list them.

Understanding Lexus key fobs and the security transfer

Two essential points govern whether you can sell the fob and how to transfer it safely: how the fob communicates with the vehicle, and what needs to be done to detach or reassign it to a new owner. In Lexus models, the remote key fob also works with the immobilizer; a dealer or authorized locksmith can erase the fob from the vehicle’s memory and program a new fob for the new owner, ensuring both sides are protected.

• Compatibility and memory: the fob is tied to a car’s immobilizer; a dealer can remove it from the car’s recognized keys and/or reprogram the car to accept a new fob.


• Dealer and locksmith options: deactivation or reprogramming typically requires legitimate ownership proof and may cost around $50–$150 depending on location and provider.


• Security implications: if you sell the fob without proper deactivation, the buyer could gain access to the car; for this reason, do not hand over the fob without clearing it from the car’s memory.

Conclusion: Understanding how the fob communicates with the vehicle helps you make a safe transfer, either with your car or as a separate accessory.

Where to sell and how to price your Lexus key fob

Consider reputable channels and a transparent listing to maximize trust and price. You’ll want to explain model compatibility, whether the fob includes a blade, and whether it requires programming for the buyer’s car.

• Where to sell: online marketplaces (e.g., eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist), local auto parts buyers, locksmiths, and auto salvage yards.


• Pricing: used OEM Lexus fobs vary by year and model; typical ranges for a good-condition fob without extra accessories are roughly $30–$150, depending on whether a blade is included and whether programming is needed. Compare listings for your exact fob part number to set a realistic price.


• Information to include: year, model, part number, whether the emergency blade is included, battery condition, and whether the fob has been deactivated from the vehicle or requires programming for a new owner.

Conclusion: A clear, accurate listing paired with honest details helps you complete the sale smoothly and protects both parties.

Summary

In short, you can sell an old Lexus key fob, but take steps to deactivate it from your vehicle and ensure the buyer can program and use it with their own car. Work with a dealer or authorized locksmith to remove the fob from your car’s recognized keys if you’re selling it separately, and provide a precise, honest listing that covers model compatibility, included components, and any programming requirements. This approach safeguards your security and facilitates a straightforward sale for the buyer.

Are old key fobs worth any money?

Yes, old key fobs are worth something, especially to companies that specialize in buying and refurbishing them for resale. They are valuable because they contain electronic components and precious metals that can be recycled or reused, and some rare or collectible fobs can be valuable to collectors. 
For resale (for businesses and individuals)

• Specialized buyers: Companies like We Buy Key Fobs and Quick Cash for Remotes buy old key fobs from individuals, auto dealers, salvage yards, and other businesses. 
• How it works: You can typically get a quote by sending a picture of the fobs to the company, or by shipping them in for evaluation. 
• Value factors: The value depends on the type of fob, with smart keys (fobs with keyless start) often being the most valuable, followed by flip keys, and then standard remote entry fobs. 

For collectors

• Collectible fobs: A vintage or collectible key fob can be worth money to collectors if it is associated with a famous brand, a luxury car, a rare promotional item, or has an iconic logo. 
• Condition matters: The condition of the fob is important; mint condition or fobs in unopened packaging can be worth more. 

Other options

• Recycling: Even if not valuable for resale or collecting, the internal components can be recycled for their precious metals. 
• Selling a used car: If you are selling a car, you can sell any extra key fobs you have to these specialized companies to make some extra cash, says this Reddit thread. 

Is there any value in old keys?

Yes, old keys can be worth something, especially antique skeleton keys which are collectible based on their age, scarcity, and detail. Keys can also have value through recycling for their metal content or for use in art and crafts. The value depends on whether the key is a rare collectible, scrap metal, or material for art projects.
 
You can watch this video to learn how to recycle keys and make money from them: 56sCLKsuppliesYouTube · Jan 27, 2022
Value as collectibles

• Antique skeleton keys: These can be valuable if they are old, scarce, have unique embellishments, or a historical connection (e.g., from a famous building or event). 
• Handmade keys: Keys that appear hand-molded are often older and more valuable than mass-produced keys. 
• Brand and origin: Keys with the locksmith's name or other brand markings can be more valuable to collectors. 

Value as scrap metal

• Recycling: Old metal keys, after any plastic or rubber pieces are removed, can be recycled for their metal content.
• Profit: Recycling yards pay for miscut keys and shavings, though you will likely make more money from the keys themselves than from the shavings. Accumulating a large quantity can make it more worthwhile. 

Value for art and crafts

• Steampunk and decor: Keys are popular materials for steampunk-style art, jewelry, and other decorative items. 
• Creative uses: Keys can be used for various household projects, such as making hooks, chimes, or weighing down curtains. 

Can you sell your old key fob?

Turn Your Key Fobs Into Cash. At We Buy Key Fobs, we do just that.... Buy unwanted vehicle keyless entry remotes! We typically buy from Auto Dealers, Auto Auctions, Auto Salvage Yards, Auto Body Shops, and any other place that might have a large quantity of key fobs.

How much does a Lexus key fob cost?

Costs will vary depending on the type of key, but replacement is typically around $300. To properly test the remote and mechanical key function, the dealer will require access to your vehicle – either at the dealership or at the location of the vehicle.