How to Order a Honda Car Key

You can order a Honda car key by contacting a Honda dealership’s parts/service department or a licensed automotive locksmith with your VIN and proof of ownership; they will cut and program the key or smart fob to your vehicle. Expect to provide identification, choose between OEM and high-quality aftermarket parts, and schedule programming (especially for transponder and push-button start models).

What Kind of Honda Key Do You Need?

Honda has used several key technologies over the years, and the type you have determines how you order and program a replacement. Understanding your key type helps you choose the right vendor, estimate costs, and avoid compatibility issues.

• Traditional mechanical key: Older models without an immobilizer. Cutting only; no programming.
• Transponder (chip) key: Most late-1990s–2010s Hondas. Requires cutting and immobilizer programming.
• Remote key with built-in transponder (flip or integrated head): Combines lock/unlock buttons with a chip; needs cutting and programming.
• Smart entry/proximity fob (push-button start): 2010s–present on many trims. Includes emergency mechanical insert; requires fob pairing (and often emergency key cutting).

If you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual, look for a push-button start, or share your VIN and model/year with a dealer or locksmith to confirm the correct part.

What to Have Ready Before You Order

Dealers and security-credentialed locksmiths must verify ownership and match the correct key profile. Having the right documents and details speeds up ordering and programming.

• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Found on the dashboard plate or registration.
• Proof of ownership: Registration or title in your name.
• Photo ID: Driver’s license or government ID.
• Existing key (if you have one): Helps with duplication and testing.
• Key code (if available): Often on the small metal tag that came with the car; otherwise dealers can retrieve by VIN.
• Model, year, and trim: Ensures the correct fob part number/FCC ID and frequency.

Providing these items up front typically allows the provider to cut to code and book programming in a single visit.

Where to Order a Honda Key

You have three practical sources. Each comes with tradeoffs in price, convenience, and assurance of compatibility and proper programming.

• Honda dealership: Can supply OEM keys/fobs by VIN, cut to code, and program immobilizers and smart entry. Strongest guarantee of compatibility; often higher cost.
• Licensed automotive locksmith: Many offer mobile service, can cut/program transponder and smart keys, and are often faster/cheaper. In the U.S., look for technicians with NASTF/LSID credentials for security functions.
• Reputable online retailer: You can buy an OEM or compatible fob/blank, but you will still need local cutting and programming. Verify the exact part number/FCC ID for your model/year to avoid returns.

If you’ve lost all keys, a dealer or security-credentialed locksmith is usually the fastest path since they can retrieve immobilizer codes and perform required resets.

Step-by-Step: Ordering and Programming

While details vary by model and year, most Honda owners follow a similar sequence to get a working replacement or spare key.

1. Confirm your key type using the VIN and model/year and identify the correct part/fob number.
2. Collect documents (VIN, proof of ownership, ID) and get quotes from a dealer and at least one locksmith.
3. Decide on OEM vs. high-quality aftermarket (OEM is safest for smart keys; aftermarket can be fine for many transponder keys).
4. Order the key/fob and have it cut to code (dealer) or cut locally (locksmith).
5. Program the immobilizer/fob: Dealer uses Honda diagnostic software (i-HDS/HDS); locksmiths use equivalent tools. Older models may allow DIY remote lock/unlock programming, but the immobilizer still requires a pro.
6. Test starting, lock/unlock, trunk release, and proximity/start functions. Verify the emergency mechanical key works in the door.
7. If a key was lost, ask to erase missing keys/fobs from the car’s memory for security.
8. Consider ordering and programming a second spare to avoid “all keys lost” scenarios later.

This workflow helps you avoid multiple trips, ensures full functionality, and protects against theft risks from lost keys.

Costs and Timing in 2025

Pricing varies by region and model, but these ranges reflect typical U.S. totals for part, cutting, and programming as of 2025.

• Mechanical key (no chip): $25–$75.
• Transponder key (chip): $120–$300 via locksmith; $180–$350 at dealer.
• Remote key (integrated buttons + chip): $160–$350 via locksmith; $220–$400 at dealer.
• Smart entry/proximity fob with emergency key: $250–$650 at dealer; $220–$550 via locksmith (OEM fobs at higher end).
• All keys lost (push-button start): Add $50–$200 for immobilizer re-seed/security access; some models require all fobs to be relearned.
• Cutting only (you supply the blank): $20–$60, depending on key type.
• Programming only (you supply the fob): $80–$200; provider may decline non-OEM parts.
• Time: Many jobs done same day by mobile locksmiths; dealers often 1–3 business days if special-ordering a fob cut to VIN.

For the most accurate figure, provide your VIN when requesting quotes; proximity fobs and newer models are usually on the higher end.

Special Cases and Tips

Certain situations change the process or cost. Planning for them can save time and money.

• All keys lost: Expect identity and ownership verification, potential immobilizer reset, and erasure of old keys. Towing may be required if the car cannot be turned on for programming (varies by model and locksmith capability).
• Push-button start vehicles: Always get the emergency mechanical insert cut; keep one hidden at home. The fob battery can die without losing programming; replace the coin cell when range shortens.
• DIY remote programming: On some older Hondas, you can program lock/unlock yourself, but the immobilizer chip still needs pro programming.
• Security credentials: In the U.S., locksmiths performing immobilizer work should have NASTF LSID access; dealers use Honda’s i-HDS for coded functions.
• Travel or cross-border cars: Frequencies and fob part numbers can differ by market. Match the exact part number/FCC ID/IC number for your region.
• Erase missing keys: Ask the provider to delete lost/stolen keys from memory so they won’t start the vehicle.

These measures help ensure both functionality and security regardless of your specific Honda model.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

Most replacement delays and extra costs come from a few avoidable mistakes.

• Buying a random online fob without matching the exact part number/FCC ID for your model/year.
• Assuming a remote that locks/unlocks doors will start the car—immobilizer chips must be programmed separately.
• Not bringing proof of ownership: providers cannot cut/program without it.
• Skipping the emergency key cut on smart fobs.
• Waiting until you have zero working keys—spares are cheaper and easier to program.

Confirm part compatibility and plan ahead for a spare to avoid these headaches.

Frequently Asked Quick Facts

Here are concise answers to common questions owners ask when ordering a key or fob.

• Can I drive to the shop without a key? Often no; use towing or a mobile locksmith if the car won’t start.
• Will a battery change erase my fob? No. Replacing the coin-cell battery does not erase programming.
• Can I program a Honda transponder key myself? Generally no; immobilizers require dealer/locksmith tools.
• Will insurance cover my key? Some comprehensive policies, roadside plans, or key-replacement add-ons do; check your policy.
• How many keys can my Honda remember? Typically several; ask to erase old ones if any are lost.

If you’re unsure about coverage or capabilities, a quick call to your dealer, insurer, or roadside provider can clarify options.

Summary

To order a Honda car key, gather your VIN, proof of ownership, and ID, then work with a Honda dealer or licensed automotive locksmith to source the correct key or fob, cut it to code, and program the immobilizer/smart entry system. Costs range from about $25 for simple mechanical keys to $650 for OEM proximity fobs, with timing from same-day mobile service to a few days if parts must be ordered. Securing a spare and erasing lost keys improves convenience and security.

Can Honda cut a key from Vin?

An AI Overview is not available for this searchCan’t generate an AI overview right now. Try again later.AI Overview Yes, Honda can make a key using your vehicle’s VIN number, but you’ll need to provide proof of ownership and the vehicle’s VIN to an authorized Honda dealer or an automotive locksmith. The key will be cut based on the key code associated with the VIN, but for modern vehicles, the transponder chip in the key head will also need to be programmed to the car’s computer to function correctly.
  What you will need

• Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): This is a unique code for your Honda. 
• Proof of Ownership: You will need to show documentation that you own the vehicle. 
• Contact an authorized Honda dealer or automotive locksmith: These professionals can access your vehicle’s build sheet for the key code. 

The process

1. Verification: The dealer or locksmith will verify your ownership using your VIN. 
2. Key Code Lookup: They will look up the specific key code associated with your VIN. 
3. Key Cutting: A new key will be cut to match your car’s lock mechanism. 
4. Programming: For modern vehicles with transponder keys, the key’s chip needs to be programmed to your car’s computer. This is a necessary step for the new key to start the engine. 

Important considerations

• Vehicle Towing: . Opens in new tabIf your car isn’t at the dealership, you may need to have it towed for the programming service. 
• Changed Locks: . Opens in new tabIf the original locks have been changed, the key code on file may not work, and manual decoding of the locks might be necessary. 
• Cost: . Opens in new tabKey replacement costs can vary, especially for keys with transponder chips. 

AI responses may include mistakes. Learn moreHonda Key Replacement Cincinnati | Cost & FAQEvery new Honda vehicle includes two keys. If you purchased your Honda used, you may have only received one key, and if you lose t…Honda East CincinnatiHow To Replace A 2000 Honda Accord Non-Chip Key? – JustAnswerUnfortunately, there is no easy way to get the keys replaced on your Accord. Those keys are programmed to that car and will need t…JustAnswer(function(){
(this||self).Bqpk9e=function(f,d,n,e,k,p){var g=document.getElementById(f);if(g&&(g.offsetWidth!==0||g.offsetHeight!==0)){var l=g.querySelector(“div”),h=l.querySelector(“div”),a=0;f=Math.max(l.scrollWidth-l.offsetWidth,0);if(d>0&&(h=h.children,a=h[d].offsetLeft-h[0].offsetLeft,e)){for(var m=a=0;mShow more

How to get a duplicate key for Honda?

Visit a Honda dealer or certified locksmith with your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership. The new key must be cut and programmed to match your car’s security system, which may require specialized diagnostic equipment. Always verify key functionality before leaving.

How to get a replacement car key without the original Honda?

If you’ve lost all copies of the original key, you may still be able to have a new key made by an automotive locksmith if you can provide them with the model and year and prove you own the car (registration or title should do it). Some locksmiths can even come out and make it for you onsite.

How do I order a replacement 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.