Losing a key fob is stressful, but finding a forgotten one can be a little goldmine. Many people upgrade their cars or replace lost fobs, leaving the old ones gathering dust. Instead of tossing them, you can actually sell them. It might seem niche, but there’s a real market for used key fobs, and several online platforms make it pretty easy to cash in. This article will explore the best places to sell those spare key fobs.
Here’s a quick overview of our top picks:
- eBay: Best for reaching a broad audience and maximizing potential profit.
- CarAndTruckRemotes.com: Simplifies the process with direct purchase and pre-paid shipping.
- Keyfobwholesale.com: Ideal for selling in bulk or if you have a steady supply.
- Facebook Marketplace: Good for local sales and avoiding shipping hassles.
- OfferUp: Another local option, great for quick sales and negotiating prices.
Top 5 Best Place to Sell Key Fobs
1. eBay
eBay is a global online marketplace. It’s a great place to sell almost anything, including used key fobs. With millions of potential buyers, you’re likely to find someone looking for your specific model. I’ve sold a few electronics on eBay and was happy with the results.
Pros:
- ✅ Huge audience of potential buyers.
- ✅ Ability to set your own price.
- ✅ Seller protection policies.
Cons:
- ❌ Listing fees and final value fees can eat into profits.
- ❌ Requires creating listings and managing shipping.
- ❌ Competition from other sellers can drive down prices.
Verdict: eBay is best if you want to reach the largest possible audience and are willing to put in the effort to create good listings and handle shipping.
2. CarAndTruckRemotes.com
CarAndTruckRemotes.com specializes in buying and selling used key fobs and remotes. They offer a straightforward process where you can get a quote for your fob, ship it to them with a pre-paid label, and get paid. This is a very easy option.
Pros:
- ✅ Simple and fast process.
- ✅ Pre-paid shipping label provided.
- ✅ No listing or selling fees.
Cons:
- ❌ May offer lower prices than selling directly to consumers.
- ❌ Limited to specific makes and models.
- ❌ Less control over the selling price.
Verdict: CarAndTruckRemotes.com is ideal if you prioritize convenience and speed over maximizing profit.
3. Keyfobwholesale.com
Keyfobwholesale.com focuses on buying key fobs in bulk. If you consistently have multiple key fobs to sell, this could be a good option. They cater to businesses, but individuals can also sell to them if they meet the quantity requirements.
Pros:
- ✅ Good option for selling multiple fobs at once.
- ✅ Streamlined process for bulk sales.
- ✅ Can establish a long-term selling relationship.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a larger quantity of fobs to sell.
- ❌ Might not be suitable for individual sellers with only one or two fobs.
- ❌ Prices may be lower than selling individually.
Verdict: Keyfobwholesale.com is best for those with a steady supply of key fobs to sell and are looking for a bulk selling solution.
4. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace connects local buyers and sellers. It’s a good option if you want to sell your key fob quickly and avoid the hassle of shipping. I’ve used Facebook Marketplace to sell furniture and other items locally.
Pros:
- ✅ No listing fees.
- ✅ Ability to sell locally and avoid shipping.
- ✅ Direct communication with buyers.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires meeting up with buyers in person.
- ❌ Limited to local buyers.
- ❌ Potential for scams or unreliable buyers.
Verdict: Facebook Marketplace is a great choice if you prefer local sales and want to avoid shipping costs and complexities.
5. OfferUp
OfferUp is another popular platform for local buying and selling. Similar to Facebook Marketplace, it allows you to connect with people in your area who might be interested in buying your key fob. It’s worth checking both platforms to see which one attracts more local buyers.
Pros:
- ✅ Free to list items.
- ✅ Easy to use mobile app.
- ✅ Can negotiate prices directly with buyers.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited to local buyers.
- ❌ Requires meeting up with buyers in person.
- ❌ Potential for lowball offers or no-shows.
Verdict: OfferUp is another solid local selling option, especially if you’re looking to get rid of your key fob quickly and are comfortable negotiating prices.
Buying Guide
Selling key fobs can be profitable, but here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and successful transaction:
- Identify the Key Fob: Before listing, accurately identify the make, model, and year of the vehicle the key fob belongs to. This will help potential buyers find the correct fob for their car.
- Check the Condition: Assess the key fob’s condition. Note any scratches, cracks, or missing buttons. Be honest in your description to avoid disputes.
- Test the Key Fob: If possible, test the key fob to ensure it’s functioning correctly. This will increase buyer confidence.
- Research Pricing: Look at similar key fobs being sold online to get an idea of a fair price. Price competitively to attract buyers.
- Take Clear Photos: Use clear, well-lit photos to showcase the key fob from different angles. Highlight any imperfections.
- Write a Detailed Description: Provide a detailed description, including the make, model, year, condition, and any other relevant information.
- Offer Returns: Consider offering returns to build trust with buyers. This can increase your chances of making a sale.
- Package Securely: When shipping, package the key fob securely to prevent damage during transit.
- Communicate Promptly: Respond to buyer inquiries promptly and professionally. Good communication can lead to a smoother transaction.
- Consider Programming: Some buyers might be concerned about reprogramming the key fob. Research the process and provide information if possible.
FAQs
Q: Is it legal to sell used key fobs?
A: Yes, selling used key fobs is generally legal as long as you own the fob and accurately describe its condition.
Q: How much can I sell a used key fob for?
A: The price depends on the make, model, year, and condition of the fob. Research similar listings to get an idea of a fair price.
Q: How do I ship a key fob safely?
A: Wrap the key fob in bubble wrap and place it in a small box or padded envelope to protect it during shipping.
Q: Can a used key fob be reprogrammed to work with another car?
A: Yes, most key fobs can be reprogrammed, but the process varies depending on the vehicle make and model. Some may require a locksmith or dealership.
Q: What if my key fob is damaged?
A: You can still try to sell a damaged key fob, but be sure to clearly disclose the damage in your listing and price it accordingly.
Conclusion
Selling used key fobs is a simple way to make extra money from items you no longer need. Whether you choose the broad reach of eBay, the convenience of CarAndTruckRemotes.com, or the local touch of Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp, there’s a platform to fit your selling style. By following the tips in this guide, you can successfully sell your key fob and put some cash in your pocket.
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