How much does it cost to program a key fob at Honda?
The cost to program a key fob at a Honda dealership typically ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the specific model and year of your vehicle. This process involves reprogramming the key fob to sync with your car's security system, ensuring that your key fob can properly unlock, lock, and start your Honda.
Understanding the Key Fob Programming Process at Honda
When you need to program a new or replacement key fob for your Honda, the process usually involves the following steps:
- Providing proof of ownership, such as your vehicle registration or driver's license
- Verifying the key fob is compatible with your Honda model
- Reprogramming the key fob to sync with your car's security system
- Testing the key fob to ensure it can lock, unlock, and start the vehicle
The cost of this service can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your Honda's security system, the availability of replacement key fobs, and the labor rates at your local Honda dealership.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Key Fob Programming at Honda
The specific cost to program a key fob at a Honda dealership can be influenced by the following factors:
- Vehicle Model and Year: Newer Honda models may require more advanced programming, resulting in higher labor costs. Older models may be less expensive to program.
- Key Fob Type: Some key fobs, such as those with additional features like remote start or keyless entry, may be more expensive to program than basic key fobs.
- Dealership Labor Rates: Labor costs can vary between Honda dealerships, with some charging higher rates for key fob programming services.
- Availability of Replacement Key Fobs: If your Honda dealership needs to order a replacement key fob, the cost may be higher than if they have the fob in stock.
It's important to note that the cost to program a key fob at a Honda dealership may also include the price of the replacement key fob itself, which can range from $50 to $150 or more, depending on the specific model and features.
Alternatives to Honda Dealership Key Fob Programming
While Honda dealerships are the recommended source for key fob programming, there are alternative options that may be more cost-effective:
- Automotive Locksmiths: Some automotive locksmiths offer key fob programming services at a lower cost than Honda dealerships.
- Online Key Fob Programming Kits: You can purchase key fob programming kits online and program the fob yourself, potentially saving money compared to a dealership visit.
- DIY Key Fob Programming: Depending on your Honda model, you may be able to program the key fob yourself using instructions found online or in your owner's manual.
Before choosing an alternative option, be sure to research the provider's reputation and ensure they can properly program your Honda's key fob without compromising the vehicle's security.
Do dealerships program key fobs for free?
All key fobs need to be programmed. Some dealerships will do it for free, while others will charge for a half-hour to an hour of labor. But there is a way around this fee. Most key fobs can be programmed with a specific combination of button presses on the remote and key turns in the ignition.
Can I program a Honda key fob myself?
Yes, many older Honda key fobs can be programmed at home using a specific, multi-step process involving the ignition key and the key fob itself. However, most newer Honda models, especially those with push-to-start or smart key systems, require a professional scan tool and may not be self-programmable. Always check your owner's manual or a Honda-specific programming guide for the correct procedure for your vehicle's year and model.
General home programming steps (for older models)
This video demonstrates how to program older Honda key fobs at home: 1mPYR Automotive YouTube · Oct 22, 2021
- Get in the driver's seat: with all doors closed.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position: (the second click, where the dash lights up).
- Press and hold the LOCK button on the key fob: for about one second, then release.
- Turn the ignition to the OFF position .
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 two more times: so you have a total of three ON/OFF cycles with the LOCK button pressed each time.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position one last time . The doors should cycle to indicate the system is in programming mode.
- Press the LOCK button on the remote: you want to program. A click from the door locks means it has been programmed.
- Turn the ignition to the LOCK position: to exit programming mode.
- Test the new remote: to ensure it works correctly.
How much does it cost to program a key fob at Autozone?
AutoZone does not program key fobs, but they sell replacement fobs that you can have programmed elsewhere. The cost of programming depends on your vehicle, the type of fob, and where you get it done, with prices typically ranging from about $50 to $200, though some locksmiths and dealers may charge more for certain services.
What to do about key fob programming
- Purchase the fob at AutoZone: You can buy a replacement key fob at AutoZone.
- Have it programmed elsewhere: You will need to find a separate service to program the fob to your vehicle.
- Programming options: Programming can be done by:
- A locksmith: Often a more affordable option, with prices ranging from $50 to $150 for programming, says Reddit users.
- A dealership: This can be a more expensive option, especially for newer or more complex fobs, notes this Reddit thread.
- DIY: Some modern key fobs can be programmed by the owner by following a specific procedure found in the owner's manual or online.
- Consider the cost of both the fob and programming: The total cost will be the sum of the key fob itself and the programming service. Some online retailers offer key fobs with a built-in programmer that is designed to be easy for the user.
How much does it cost to program a Honda key fob?
The cost to program a Honda key fob can range from $50 to $150 for programming fees alone, with the total cost for a new key and programming often reaching $150 to $500 or more, depending on the key type, dealership, or locksmith. For simpler, older models, the cost may be less, while advanced smart keys are more expensive, with dealerships generally charging more than locksmiths.
Cost breakdown
- Programming: This is the process of syncing the new key fob with your car's immobilizer system.
- Locksmith: Typically charges between $50 and $150 for programming only, provided you have the new key fob.
- Dealership: Often includes programming in their overall key replacement cost, which can be more expensive.
- Key Fob: The cost of the replacement fob itself varies by type:
- Transponder Key (with chip): $75 to $200+
- Key Fob with Remote: $150 to $300+
- Smart Key/Push-to-Start Key: $250 to $500+
- Total Cost (Key + Programming):
- Average: Around $160 to $240, but can be higher.
- Dealership: $150 to $400 or more.
- Locksmith: $150 to $250 for a basic key or fob and programming.
How to save money
- Compare prices: Get quotes from both locksmiths and dealerships before committing.
- Shop around for fobs: You can often purchase a new fob online for a lower price and have a locksmith program it for you.
- Check DIY options: For some older models, you may be able to program a new fob yourself if you have a working key, which can significantly reduce the cost.
