How Much Does It Cost to Get a New Key Fob for a Honda CR-V

In the United States, replacing a Honda CR-V key fob typically costs about $200–$600 depending on model year, key type, and where you go; older CR-V keys can be as low as $75–$200. Prices break down into the fob itself, cutting an emergency blade, and programming. Below is a detailed look at what drives the price and how to choose the most cost-effective option.

What Determines the Price

Several factors influence what you’ll pay for a CR-V key, from whether your vehicle uses a smart key to whether you’ve lost all keys. Understanding these will help you set expectations and avoid surprise fees.

• Key type and model year: Smart (push-button) keys cost more than transponder or remote-head keys; newer generations (2017–present, especially 2023+) tend to be pricier.
• OEM vs. aftermarket: Genuine Honda fobs usually cost more but are most reliable; quality aftermarket fobs can be cheaper but need correct FCC ID/part matching.
• Programming complexity: Smart keys require specialized equipment and security login; programming fees vary by dealer/locksmith and whether all keys are lost.
• Cutting the emergency blade: Many smart keys include a metal insert that must be cut to your VIN/key code.
• Provider: Dealerships often charge more; mobile automotive locksmiths can be quicker and cheaper.
• All keys lost vs. adding a spare: Replacing the only key usually adds an immobilizer “reseed” or security procedure cost; adding a spare is cheaper.
• Location and fees: Regional pricing, mobile/travel fees, taxes, and shop supply charges can affect totals.

In practice, your final bill reflects the combination of parts, labor, and security steps needed to pair the key to your specific CR-V.

Typical Price Ranges by Model Year and Key Type

These U.S. price ranges reflect current market norms for parts and labor in 2024–2025; expect higher totals at dealers and lower totals with independent locksmiths.

• 1997–2006 (separate transponder key and remote):
  – Key blank: $20–$60
  – Remote transmitter (if replacing): $25–$80
  – Programming: $50–$100
  – Typical total: $100–$200 (spare) or $150–$250 (all keys lost)
• 2007–2014 (remote-head or transponder key):
  – Key/fob: $40–$120
  – Programming: $60–$120
  – Cutting: $15–$40
  – Typical total: $120–$240 (spare) or $180–$320 (all keys lost)
• 2015–2016 (mix of remote-head and smart key on higher trims):
  – Remote-head: totals similar to 2007–2014
  – Smart key: fob $120–$220 aftermarket or $170–$300 OEM; programming $80–$150; cutting $20–$50
  – Typical total: $220–$450 (spare) or $300–$520 (all keys lost)
• 2017–2022 (most trims use smart key/push-button start):
  – Fob: $130–$240 aftermarket or $180–$320 OEM
  – Programming: $90–$160
  – Cutting: $20–$50
  – Typical total: $250–$500 (spare) or $320–$580 (all keys lost)
• 2023–2025 (current generation, all push-button start):
  – Fob: $160–$280 aftermarket or $200–$350 OEM
  – Programming: $100–$180
  – Cutting: $25–$60
  – Typical total: $300–$600 (spare) or $380–$650 (all keys lost)

Variations come from trim-specific fobs (e.g., power tailgate or remote start) and the provider’s labor rates, so confirm exact part numbers and quotes for your VIN.

Where to Buy and Program: Dealer vs. Locksmith vs. DIY

You have multiple avenues for a replacement key; each has trade-offs in cost, convenience, and assurance of compatibility.

• Honda dealership: Highest likelihood of exact-match OEM parts and software. Expect $350–$600 for newer smart keys including programming; may require towing if no working key and the car isn’t mobile.
• Automotive locksmith (mobile): Often 10–30% cheaper than dealer and can come to you. Typical totals: $200–$450 for most CR-V smart keys; faster for “all keys lost” scenarios.
• Buy OEM/aftermarket online + local programming: Can reduce part cost, but ensure FCC ID and frequency match your CR-V. You will still need a locksmith or dealer to program; total savings vary ($40–$120 typical).
• DIY programming: For older CR-Vs, some remote functions can be self-programmed, but immobilizer chips and all smart keys require professional programming equipment.

If you value convenience and a single point of accountability, the dealer is straightforward; for cost control and speed, a reputable mobile locksmith is often the best balance.

Extra Costs You Might Encounter

Beyond the fob and standard programming, certain circumstances can add fees. Ask for an itemized quote in advance to avoid surprises.

• Immobilizer reseed/security verification (all keys lost): $100–$250
• Key code lookup by VIN: Often included, but sometimes $20–$50
• Emergency blade cutting: $15–$60
• Mobile/travel fee (locksmith): $0–$50 depending on distance/time
• Tow to dealer (if needed): $100–$200+, depending on location
• Fob battery replacement (most CR-V use CR2032): $3–$10
• Taxes/shop fees: Varies by state and shop

Clarify whether quoted prices include programming, cutting, and any required security steps, especially when you have no working key.

How to Save Money (Legitimately)

A few practical steps can trim your bill without sacrificing reliability or security.

• Have your VIN and proof of ownership ready: Speeds up key code retrieval and security authorization.
• Price-shop between at least one dealer and two locksmiths: Ask for out-the-door quotes with programming and cutting included.
• Verify compatibility before buying online: Match OEM part number and FCC ID; confirm return policy if programming fails.
• Add a spare while you still have one working key: Programming a duplicate is cheaper than replacing all keys later.
• Check benefits you already have: Roadside assistance, new-car warranties, credit-card/key-replacement add-ons, or insurance may subsidize replacement.
• Replace the battery before assuming the fob is dead: A $5 battery can solve intermittent issues.

Planning ahead—especially getting a spare while one key still works—is the single best way to avoid premium “all keys lost” costs.

Step-by-Step: Replacing a Lost CR-V Key Fob

When you’ve lost a key or need a spare, this sequence helps you get the right fob quickly and minimize downtime.

1. Confirm your CR-V’s year, trim, and whether it’s push-button start.
2. Call a Honda dealer and a mobile automotive locksmith for itemized quotes (fob, cutting, programming, any security fees).
3. Decide OEM vs. aftermarket based on cost and availability; ensure exact part/FCC ID match if buying online.
4. Schedule programming; have your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance handy.
5. If all keys are lost and the vehicle can’t be started, arrange mobile service or towing as needed.
6. Test all functions after programming: lock/unlock, trunk/tailgate, remote start (if equipped), and engine start/stop.
7. Order a second spare if budget allows; it’s cheaper now than later.

Following these steps ensures you get a compatible fob, avoid rework, and maintain full functionality, including immobilizer pairing.

Key Takeaways on Cost

Most Honda CR-V owners today will pay around $250–$500 for a professionally supplied and programmed smart key; very new models (2023–2025) and “all keys lost” situations trend to the high end. Older CR-Vs cost substantially less. A trusted mobile locksmith can be the best value, while dealerships offer OEM certainty. Always request an out-the-door quote that includes programming and cutting.

Summary

Expect $200–$600 to replace a Honda CR-V key fob in the U.S., depending on model year, key type, and provider; older models can be $75–$200. Smart keys (2017+) are pricier due to parts and programming, and “all keys lost” adds security steps and cost. Compare dealer and locksmith quotes, verify part compatibility, and consider adding a spare while you still have a working key to avoid higher expenses later.

How much does a dealer charge to replace a key fob?

The cost can range from under $50 for a basic key to over $600 for a more advanced key fob replacement at the dealership. How can I get a replacement key for my car?

Can you program a Honda CRV key fob yourself?

Key Fob Programming Instructions
Get inside your Honda CR-V and close all doors. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the ‘II’ position, then press the LOCK or UNLOCK button on your key fob. Turn the ignition switch to the ‘0’ position and repeat steps 2 & 3 two more times—making it three cycles in total.

How to get a replacement Honda CRV key fob?

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.

How much is a new key fob for a Honda CRV?

Replacing a Honda CR-V key fob typically costs between $160 and $459, depending on the type of fob and programming needed. This cost includes the price of the fob itself, a new key if necessary, and the programming fees. Dealers may charge more than independent locksmiths or online retailers. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Key Fob: A new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) key fob can range from $140 to $200 or more, according to Keyless Entry Remote Inc. 
• Programming: Programming a new key fob typically costs between $50 and $80, depending on the complexity and the provider. 
• Key Cutting: If a new key needs to be cut, that’s an additional cost, usually around $15-$20. 
• Labor: Dealerships may charge more for labor than independent locksmiths or online retailers. 
• Used/Refurbished Fobs: Consider a used or refurbished key fob as a more cost-effective option. 

Factors Affecting Price:

• Year and Model of CR-V: Different years and models may require different types of fobs and programming methods. 
• Number of Buttons on the Fob: More buttons generally mean a higher price. 
• Whether it’s a standard or smart key (with push-button start): Smart keys are typically more expensive. 
• Where you get it replaced: Dealerships usually have the highest prices, while online retailers or locksmiths may offer more competitive rates.