How can I replace my Honda car key?

If you’ve lost your Honda key, you can replace it by visiting a Honda dealership or a licensed locksmith. The type of key and programming required will drive the cost and turnaround time. This guide outlines your options, what you’ll need, and how to get back on the road quickly and safely.

Types of Honda Keys

Honda keys come in several varieties depending on model year and features. Knowing which type you have helps you choose the right replacement path.

• Mechanical key blade (non-electronic) that fits the ignition


• Transponder key (chip-based) that must be programmed to the car’s immobilizer


• Remote key fob (works for lock/unlock and sometimes unlocks the trunk, may include a panic button)


• Smart key / proximity key (allows keyless entry and push-button start; often requires specialized programming)

Understanding your key type guides your replacement method, price, and whether programming is necessary. If you’re unsure which type your Honda uses, check your owner’s manual, inspect the key fob for a chip or button features, or contact your dealer with your VIN.

Options to Replace Your Honda Key

Several routes exist, each with its own pros, cons, and price range. Here are the common options and what to expect.

• Visit a Honda dealership. The dealer can supply and program a new key or smart key, ensure proper immobilizer alignment, and handle documentation.


• Use a licensed automotive locksmith. Many locksmiths can cut mechanical keys and program transponder or remote fobs for a reduced price compared with the dealership, often with mobile service.


• Order an aftermarket key fob or blade online (often cheaper). This may require local programming by a locksmith or dealer, and compatibility varies by model.


• Walk-in roadside assistance or emergency services. Some providers can help unlock the car or arrange a tow to a dealer or locksmith for a key replacement.

Choosing the right option depends on your model, location, and whether you still have a working key to facilitate programming. Always confirm that any third-party key is compatible with your exact Honda model and year before purchase.

What You’ll Need to Replace Your Honda Key

Before you head out, gather the essentials to streamline the process and avoid delays.

• Proof of ownership: vehicle title, registration, or a current bill of sale


• Valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)


• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and model/year of your Honda


• All existing keys, if available, to assist with programming and immobilizer learning


• Proof of insurance, if required by the service provider

Having these documents ready helps the dealer or locksmith verify ownership and ensures the new key is correctly programmed to your car.

Costs and Timeframes

Costs vary by model year, key type, and provider. Here is a realistic snapshot to help you budget.

• Honda dealership: generally $250–$700 or more, depending on whether you need one or more keys and whether the key is a smart/keyless system


• Licensed locksmith: typically $150–$450, often cheaper than the dealer; includes key cut and programming, with mobile service possible


• Aftermarket remote fobs or blades (online): $20–$150 for the part, plus programming fees if needed


• Mechanical blade-only replacement (no remote): about $2–$50 if you already have the key blank or via a locksmith

Turnaround times range from same-day service at a dealership or locksmith to a few days if parts must be ordered or if a smart key requires factory programming. If you’ve lost all keys, a tow to the dealer or locksmith is often required.

Step-by-Step: How to Replace Your Honda Key

Use these steps as a practical workflow to minimize delays and ensure proper programming and fitment.

1. Identify the key type (mechanical blade, transponder, remote fob, or smart key) by inspecting the current key and checking your Honda’s year/model.


2. Decide whether to use a dealership, locksmith, or online option based on price, convenience, and urgency.


3. Gather required documents: proof of ownership, VIN, your photo ID, and any existing keys.


4. Contact your chosen provider and confirm compatibility, availability, and a price quote that includes cutting and programming.


5. Arrange for key cut (blade) and/or remote fob fabrication; confirm whether programming is included and what method will be used (OTA, immobilizer learning, or manual coding).


6. Have the key programmed to your car and test all functions (lock/unlock, trunk, panic, and push-button start if applicable).


7. Keep the new key secure and store a spare in a safe location for future emergencies.

After you complete these steps, verify that the new key operates smoothly with your Honda across all doors and starting functions. If any issue arises, contact the provider promptly for reprogramming or adjustment.

Tips to Avoid Scams and Save Money

Key replacement can be a costly service if you’re not careful. Here are practical tips to protect yourself and reduce expenses.

• Get written estimates from at least two reputable providers and compare both the price and what’s included (blade cut, programming, travel fees).


• Ask if the price includes immobilizer programming and whether it requires a working key for learning a new one.


• Verify licensing and read recent customer reviews to avoid unscrupulous correspondents


• Confirm the exact key type and model compatibility before purchasing any parts online


• Check if your car insurance or roadside assistance plan covers key replacement or towing to a service location

With careful planning, you can avoid overpaying and ensure you get a properly functioning key that works reliably with your Honda.

Summary

Replacing a Honda key involves identifying the key type, choosing the right replacement route (dealer, locksmith, or aftermarket), gathering essential ownership documents, and arranging for cutting and programming. Costs vary widely by model and method, with mechanical blade replacements typically cheaper than remote fobs or smart keys. Planning ahead, obtaining multiple quotes, and ensuring proper programming can save time and money while keeping you on the road.

Can AutoZone make a key without the original?

Take Advantage of Other AutoZone Services
Though AutoZone no longer offers key cutting, you can still get assistance with your vehicle needs with service such as battery testing, fix finder, and other services at your local AutoZone store.

How much does it cost to replace a Honda Accord car key?

How much does a Honda replacement key cost? There may come a time when you need to replace your Honda key fob or battery. The average price for parts and programming for a key fob is $149.00 to $459.00 plus tax. Prices will vary on the type of key fob (and key) that your Honda requires.

How to get a Honda key replaced?

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. 

How do I order another Honda key?

Key codes or copies cannot be provided over the phone and a replacement key fob cannot be obtained unless you take your vehicle to the dealership, as the new key fob must be programmed to the vehicle. To contact your local Honda dealership, please visit our Dealer Locator.