What the dealer will tell you
A Honda or Acura dealer programs your key at the dealership. With a working key that's an appointment. With none, the car usually has to be towed in, and if the right blank isn't in stock the key is ordered and you wait. On older cars the immobilizer may also need reflashing, which adds to the bill.
- Spare key $300–$550 For a 2016-and-newer smart fob, programming included. Older remote-head keys run less.
- All keys lost $400–$800 Includes tow-in. Older cars that need the immobilizer reflashed can run $650–$1,500.
- Wait 1 hour to 7 days Under an hour if the dealer stocks the blank. Otherwise ordered: 3–7 business days.
Systems covered
Honda and Acura share immobilizer families. The generation decides how the key is added.
- Early immobilizer (Type 1 and 2) About 1996–2002 Coming soon We're not taking these yet.
- Type 3 and 4 About 2003–2017 Keys programmed through the diagnostic port, including all-keys-lost.
- Smart key 2016 on Push-button smart keys cut, coded and synced to the car.
- Newest platforms About 2022 on Call first. Some are dealer-only for now; I'll tell you on the phone.
Symptoms that aren't a lost key
Plenty of Honda and Acura “key” calls turn out to be something smaller. If you still have a key and it's acting up:
Green key light flashing
The immobilizer isn't recognising the key. It's often a worn key chip or the wrong key, not the car. We test before we replace anything.
Key turns, car won't start
Usually the immobilizer not matching the key, sometimes a worn ignition. Worth a call before you tow it.
Smart key not detected
Often the fob battery. If it isn't, the key may have lost its pairing and can be re-synced.
Spare never worked right
An aftermarket key programmed badly. We can re-program or replace it with one that works.
What to have ready
- Photo ID that matches the registration
- Registration or title (proof the car is yours)
- The VIN — on the dash at the windshield, or the door jamb
Honda and Acura questions
Can you make a Honda or Acura key if I've lost all of them?
Yes, on about 2003 and newer models. Older Hondas and Acuras (about 1996–2002) are coming soon. The car stays where it is.
Do Honda and Acura use the same keys?
They share immobilizer families, so the process is the same. The key itself is specific to your model and year.
How long does it take?
A spare key or an all-keys-lost job typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.
Do I need to tow the car?
No. I come to the car.