Can I use my phone as a key with my Honda?
What is Honda Digital Key and who can use it?
Honda Digital Key is a smartphone-as-key feature that works with the My Honda+ app. It uses Bluetooth to unlock doors and start the engine, with optional sharing of access to other drivers. To use it, your car must be equipped with the Digital Key hardware and software, and you must have a compatible phone.
Device compatibility
Most modern iPhone and Android devices can work, but you must have the My Honda+ app installed and the vehicle must be eligible for Digital Key. Check the app for your VIN eligibility or confirm with a dealer.
Vehicle compatibility
Digital Key is available on select Honda models and model years with the required hardware and software. Availability varies by market and trim level; a VIN check in the My Honda+ app or a dealer confirmation is the most reliable way to know.
How to set up and use Honda Digital Key
To enable Digital Key, you generally install the My Honda+ app, link your vehicle, and turn the feature on. The steps below reflect typical setup procedures; exact steps may vary by market and model.
- Install the My Honda+ app on your smartphone (iOS or Android) and sign in with your Honda account.
- Link your vehicle to the app by entering the VIN or scanning the code shown in the car’s settings or within the app.
- In the app, follow prompts to enable Digital Key and set access permissions (for example, owner vs shared).
- Test the digital key by approaching the car to unlock and then starting the engine from the app within Bluetooth range.
- If supported in your region and model, you can share digital keys with family members or other approved users through the app.
After setup, you can manage access and revoke permissions at any time from the My Honda+ app.
Security, limitations, and best practices
Like any digital key system, there are security considerations and practical limits you should be aware of before relying on it daily.
- Proximity and reliability: Unlocking and starting typically require Bluetooth proximity to the vehicle; remote operation may depend on an active internet connection and vehicle settings.
- Phone health and software: Battery level, OS updates, and app versions can affect performance; keep devices updated and charged.
- Security controls: Use biometric authentication or a strong passcode to authorize digital key use, and you can revoke access via the app if your phone is lost or stolen.
- Fallback options: If you cannot use the phone key, you can still use the traditional physical key or the car’s standard entry/start methods for that model.
Keeping your vehicle and phone software up to date helps maintain security and compatibility with evolving smartphone ecosystems.
What if your Honda doesn’t support Digital Key yet?
If your model or market does not offer Digital Key, you’ll rely on the conventional key fob and any available remote features, or explore dealer-approved updates where offered. The My Honda+ app still provides other connected features you can use.
Summary and next steps
Bottom line: If your Honda is equipped for Digital Key and your phone is compatible, you can use your smartphone to unlock and start your car via the My Honda+ app. To know for sure, check your VIN in the My Honda+ app or ask your Honda dealer. Keep both your phone and vehicle software up to date, and have a backup key available for reliability.
