For cars with a push-button start, however, all you have to do is physically put your dead-battery fob in a designated location, and the button will still work.

In this primer on how to replace a car key fob, Consumer Reports says getting another high-tech key fob can be a pricey proposition.

With push-button start systems, you can start your car effortlessly. As long as the key fob is inside the vehicle, a simple press of the button is all it takes.