Can I get duplicate key from Honda?

Yes. You can obtain a duplicate Honda key through an authorized Honda dealership or a licensed automotive locksmith. The exact process and cost depend on your model and key type, with newer vehicles requiring programming to the car’s immobilizer.

In this article, we break down the different key types Honda uses, what you’ll need to prove ownership, where you can obtain a duplicate, and what to expect in terms of time and cost.

Understanding Honda key types

Different Honda keys require different duplication approaches. Here are the main types you’ll encounter:

• Mechanical keys (traditional metal key) — typically the easiest to duplicate and often available at local locksmiths or at the dealership with a simple cut.


• Transponder keys with immobilizer chip — require programming so the car starts and communicates with the immobilizer system.


• Smart keys / proximity keys — the most advanced type used on many current models; require specialized programming and equipment, sometimes at a dealership or a capable locksmith.

Understanding your key type ahead of time helps you estimate cost and turnaround, and avoids surprises at the counter.

How to obtain a duplicate key

Whether you go through a Honda dealership or a licensed locksmith, you’ll typically need to prove ownership and provide vehicle details. Below is a quick guide to what you’ll encounter.

Through a Honda dealership

Dealerships can issue keys that are matched to your vehicle’s immobilizer. You’ll usually need to provide proof of ownership and your photo ID, along with the vehicle’s VIN and possibly the original key if you still have it. The process may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, and pricing can be higher than an independent locksmith, especially for smart keys.

What you’ll typically need to bring to the dealership:

• Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license)


• Vehicle title or registration (proof of ownership)


• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) (often printed on the registration)


• All keys you currently own (if available)


• Contact information for the registered owner

Having these documents ready helps speed up the process and reduces the chances of delays.

Through a licensed automotive locksmith

Independent locksmiths with automotive programming capabilities can often provide a faster, cheaper option for many key types. They can copy mechanical keys quickly, and some can program transponder or smart keys if they have the right equipment and the Honda immobilizer code or access to the vehicle’s data. Availability varies by region and model, and some newer keys may still require dealership programming.

What you’ll typically need to bring to a locksmith:

• Proof of ownership (often the same items listed for dealerships)


• All keys you currently own, if any


• VIN and possibly the key code or data for the vehicle (if the locksmith can access it)

Locksmiths may offer shorter wait times and competitive pricing, but check whether they can program the specific Honda key type for your model.

Costs and timelines

Costs vary widely by key type, model year, location, and whether programming is required. The following ranges offer a general idea, but you should get a written quote before proceeding.

• Mechanical key duplication (no programming): typically $5–$15 plus cutting fees


• Transponder key duplication (with programming): typically $40–$150 including programming


• Smart/proximity key or remote key (with programming): typically $150–$600+ including programming

Timelines can also vary: mechanical keys can be ready within minutes, while transponder or smart keys may require several hours to a day, depending on parts availability and shop queue.

Tips for a smooth process

To minimize hassle and cost, consider these tips:

• Call ahead to confirm that the shop has the correct key blank and programming capability for your Honda model.


• Ask for a formal quote that includes both the key and any programming/service fees.


• Bring all owners’ documents and both existing keys if you have them; this can simplify verification.

Being prepared helps you avoid delays and ensure you receive a correctly functioning duplicate key.

Summary

In most cases, yes—you can obtain a duplicate Honda key through an authorized dealership or a licensed locksmith. The right option depends on your key type (mechanical, transponder, or smart key), your vehicle’s immobilizer, and your location. Plan for proof of ownership, possible programming requirements, and a price range that reflects the key type and service provider.

How much does Honda charge for a replacement key?

Honda does not set a single price for a replacement key, as the cost varies by key type, model, and location. A basic mechanical key can cost $10−30$ 10 minus 30$10−30, while a transponder key typically ranges from $75−200+$ 75 minus 200 plus$75−200+, and a smart key (fob) can cost anywhere from $250−500+$ 250 minus 500 plus$250−500+ at a dealership. You may also incur additional programming fees ranging from $75−150$ 75 minus 150$75−150 for transponder and smart keys, which can often be done at a lower cost by an automotive locksmith or online retailer. 
Factors that influence the cost

• Key type: The most significant factor is the type of key needed. Older cars may only need a basic metal key, while modern cars often require a transponder key with a chip or a smart key (fob). 
• Model and year: Newer Honda models with advanced key systems will be more expensive to replace than older models with basic keys. 
• Programming: Modern keys need to be programmed to your vehicle's immobilizer system, which adds to the total cost. This is a required step for transponder and smart keys. 
• Location: Where you get the key made will affect the price. Dealerships are often more expensive, while automotive locksmiths and online key retailers may offer more affordable options. 

Cost breakdown by key type

• Basic mechanical key: $10−$30$ 10 minus $ 30$10−$30. These keys are for older models and do not require programming. 
• Transponder key (with chip): $75−$200+$ 75 minus $ 200 plus$75−$200+ for the key, plus a programming fee of $75−$150$ 75 minus $ 150$75−$150. 
• Key fob (with remote): $150−$300+$ 150 minus $ 300 plus$150−$300+ for the fob, plus a programming fee of $75−$150$ 75 minus $ 150$75−$150. 
• Smart key (push-to-start): $250−$500+$ 250 minus $ 500 plus$250−$500+ for the key, plus a programming fee of $75−$150$ 75 minus $ 150$75−$150. 

Tips to save money

• Shop around: Contact local automotive locksmiths and compare their prices with the dealership's quote. 
• Buy online: You can purchase a replacement key or fob online for a lower price, but you will still need to have it cut and programmed by a professional. 
• Check your insurance: Some insurance policies may cover the cost of a replacement key. 

What is the cheapest way to get a car key replaced?

The cheapest way to get your key replaced is to look for an auto locksmith. This option is also the fastest and is budget-friendly since they usually have all the equipment needed for the procedure. Roadside assistance. Another cheap way of getting the job done is by seeking roadside assistance.

How to get a duplicate key for Honda?

To get a new Honda key, you can go to an authorized Honda dealership, a professional automotive locksmith, or some retail stores like Ace Hardware or Batteries Plus. For the dealership, you will need to bring proof of ownership (driver's license and registration) and the vehicle so the new key can be programmed. Locksmiths and retailers can be a more affordable option, but you may need a working key to program it yourself or have the locksmith program it for you. 
This video explains how to get a new Honda key without going to the dealership: 1mTom's Key CompanyYouTube · Nov 27, 2021
Honda dealership

• What to do: Take your vehicle to the dealership. You will need to provide a copy of your driver's license and the vehicle's registration to prove ownership. 
• Pros: Dealerships have the expertise and equipment to cut and program keys specifically for your vehicle. 
• Cons: This is often the most expensive option. 

Automotive locksmith

• What to do: Contact a locksmith who specializes in automotive keys. Many can come to your location to create and program the new key on-site. 
• Pros: Locksmiths can sometimes be more affordable than a dealership and offer convenient mobile service. 
• Cons: Some older or more complex keys may still require a dealer. 

Other retail options

• What to do: Visit a hardware or electronics store that offers key fob services, such as Ace Hardware or Batteries Plus. 
• Pros: These can be significantly cheaper than dealerships and offer quick service. 
• Cons: The quality of aftermarket fobs can vary. Some models may still require a dealership for programming. 

Important considerations

• Proof of ownership: You will always need to provide proof of ownership, regardless of where you get the key. 
• Programming: Most new keys, especially those with a chip, need to be programmed to your car's immobilizer system. 
• Lost key: If you have lost all copies of your key, you must go to a dealership or a professional locksmith. Some services offer key-by-photo options, but they require a working key to create the initial copy for programming. 

Can Honda cut a key from Vin?

With your VIN, and verification of ownership, such as a copy of your vehicle registration, our parts department will have no trouble at all making you a new key.