DIY Honda Key Fob Programming: A Complete Guide

Honda is a major brand in the US auto market, second only to Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet. Approximately one in every 15 Americans drives a Honda. Honda key fobs come in a variety of styles, whether smart or mechanical, and losing any one can be frustrating.

In a previous article, we briefly addressed the question of how to program a new key fob. However, the key fob programming process varies depending on the vehicle's brand, year of manufacture, and engine specifications. So, how do you program a Honda key fob? Can you program a new key fob yourself?

In our previous post, we shared how to program a BMW key using an Autel key programmer. Today, we'll take a different approach and show you how to program a Honda key fob at home, and explore the specific methods that make this easy.

Honda Car Key Types

The Evolution Pattern of Honda Car Key Fobs

The development of automobiles has a long history, and keys have also been developing towards greater convenience and security. Honda cars have a variety of key types, with different car models and production years having different keys.

The overall change is towards a more intelligent direction, which also puts higher demands on key programming technology. The following are the specific development patterns:

• Around 1990: Mechanical keys were the primary mode.
• 1998–2010: Transitional period, with chip keys and remote folding keys being the primary mode.
• After 2013: A full shift to smart keys (keyless fobs).
• Latest models: App-based digital keys and NFC card keys are gradually being added.

There are many types of keys for Honda vehicles.

Honda Popular Models: Year and Key Type Comparison Table

How to Program Honda Key Fob?

Although Honda cars have a variety of key types, traditional mechanical keys do not require programming. However, the most common types that can be programmed are semi-mechanical keys and smart keys. Their programming methods are similar, so we combine them together for a unified explanation.

Method 1: Program a Honda Key Fob Without a Key Programming Tool

The programming process may vary depending on your Honda model, but the following steps generally apply to most newer models. Here's how to program a Honda remote key:

• Step 1: Get into your Honda.

First, get in the driver's seat of your Honda and make sure all doors are closed. Insert the key in the ignition, but do not start the vehicle.

• Step 2: Turn the ignition on and off.

Within five seconds, turn the ignition switch to the "ON" position (the ignition switch clicks a second time), then turn it back to the "OFF" position. Repeat this step twice (on/off), then hold the ignition switch in the "OFF" position.

• Step 3: Press the Programming Button

Press the "Lock" button on the remote key. Then, within five seconds, press and hold the "Unlock" button on the remote key for about one second, then release it. This will trigger the vehicle to enter programming mode. The vehicle's hazard lights will flash to confirm the programming process.

• Step 4: Key Remote Programming

After programming the first key remote, repeat this step within 10 seconds to program additional keys. For each key remote, press and hold the "LOCK" button and wait for the confirmation light to flash, indicating that the key remote has been successfully programmed.

• Step 5: Exiting Programming Mode

Once all remotes have been programmed, turn the ignition switch back to the "ON" position. The vehicle's hazard lights should flash again to confirm programming is complete.

For the specific operation process, please watch the video below:

NOTE: The programming method for each car model may be slightly different. Please refer to your vehicle manual to avoid unnecessary trouble.

Method 2: Using a Professional Key Programmer

The programming method for a Honda key fob varies depending on the scenario. For example, if you simply want to add a new key, or need to delete an old key, or if you've lost all your keys and don't have the original key, these situations all require programming. Let's take a look at how to program a Honda key fob in different scenarios.

Before you begin: You need to prepare

• Determine the model and year of your vehicle
• A professional key programming tool
• One original key (additional key)
• A new key (with a programmable chip)

Added a New Honda Key Fob

Adding an extra key fob for your Honda is one of the simplest applications of key programming. You don’t need to be an expert or own expensive professional equipment. With a user-friendly device like the Autel KM100, you can easily handle the process right at home.

In the next section, I’ll walk you through the exact steps using the Autel KM100 as an example.

Step 1: Enter Vehicle Identification

1. Turn on the ignition (using a learned key).
2. Insert the VCI into the vehicle and connect it to the Autel KM100.
3. Select Auto Detect VIN on the KM100 to confirm the vehicle model is a Honda Accord.
4. Enter the Immobilizer menu.

Step 2: Select Programming Mode

1. Select the Add Key function.
2. Make sure the vehicle doors remain open.
3. You will be prompted: The key must be in the vehicle with the ignition on, avoiding interference sources (such as a cell phone).

Use KM100 to program additional keys.

Step 3: Learn a New Key

1. Remove all keys except the learned key, ensuring that only one key to be programmed is in the vehicle.
2. Insert and remove the learned key as prompted, then place the new key in the vehicle's identification area (usually on the seat or a designated location).
3. Turn the ignition on and off repeatedly as prompted until the vehicle successfully recognizes the new key.
4. Observe the red anti-theft light on the dashboard: it should turn off when programming is complete.

Step 4: Verify Functionality

1. Confirm that both the new and old keys:
• Keyless Entry functions properly.
• Remote functions (lock/unlock/trunk) function properly.
• Vehicle starts normally.
2. Exit programming mode and ensure there are no immobilizer error or warning lights.

You can refer to the video tutorial below to operate:

All Key Lost

The loss of all keys is a difficult programming process, especially for some newer models. The higher security factor may also involve the disassembly and reading of the anti-theft system. We will not introduce these for the time being.

Today, we will mainly provide a simple Honda key programming process for novice DIYers after losing all their keys. With the help of a professional key programmer, you can complete the entire Honda key programming process. Next, we will use Autel IM608 Pro II as an example to provide you with step-by-step guidance.

Step 1: Generate a Universal Key

1. In the IM608 Pro II menu, select Universal Key → North America → Honda → Pilot → 2020.
2. Click Generate Universal Key.
3. Write the universal smart key into the data format required by the Honda Pilot.

Step 2: Access the Immobilizer System

1. Return to the main menu and select Honda → Manual Model Selection → Pilot → Smart Key System.
2. Confirm access to the Keyless System (Smart Key System) control unit.

Use Autel IM608 PRO II to program Honda key fob.

Step 3: Register a New Key (All Keys Lost Mode)

1. Select the All Keys Lost function.
2. Follow the prompts to activate the ignition (press the Start/Stop button):
   • Press/release several times to cycle the ignition.
   • Ensure the system recognizes the newly generated universal key.
3. Wait for the system to display "Key Registration Completed.

Step 4: Functional Verification

1. Check that the new key can:
• Start the vehicle (apply the brake and press the Start button for a normal engine start).
• Perform remote control functions (unlock, lock, and remote control).
• Confirm that all anti-theft/warning lights are off.
2. Test the starting and remote control functions several times to ensure that programming is complete.

You can refer to the video below for instructions:

Professional Key Programmer Recommendation

Autel MaxiIM KM100

Autel MaxiIM KM100 is a universal anti-theft tool that integrates key generation, key fob programming, anti-theft learning and transponder creation, with the same functions as KM100/KM100X/KM100E.

• Price: $400~$500
• Cons: Small and portable, generates universal keys in 60 seconds, immo key programming covers a wide range, and supports advanced anti-theft functions.
• For Whom: DIY enthusiasts, locksmiths, and small shops who need a budget-friendly, modern key programmer.

Autel MaxiIM IM508S

The Autel MaxiIM IM508S, equipped with XP200, integrates key fob programming, full system diagnostics, two-way control, and 40+ service functions. It also enjoys 2 years of free updates and is an upgraded version of the IM508/KM100.

• Price: $930~$1300 (The price will vary depending on the accessories installed.)
• Cons: The Autel MaxiIM IM508S integrates full-system diagnostics, key programming, bi-directional control, and 40+ services, supports multiple languages, and comes with 2 years of free updates, making it suitable for locksmiths and technicians.
• For Whom: Locksmiths, technicians, and repair shops who want reliable programming at a lower price.

Autel IM508S

2025 Upgraded IM508

ey Fob Programming Tool with XP200 Programmer

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Autel IM608S II

Upgradeed IM608

All-In-One Key Programming, Top IMMO Functions

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Autel MaxiIM IM608S II

Autel MaxiIM IM608S II integrates top-level IMMO, anti-theft key programming, and advanced ECU coding, without IP restrictions. It is a comprehensive upgrade version of the IM608 series and IM508S.

• Price: $2700~$3100
• Cons: Combining flagship hardware with top-tier IMMO, immobilizer programming, ECU online coding, and OE-level diagnostic capabilities, it is the all-around flagship tool for locksmiths and workshops.
• Suitable for professional locksmiths with complex needs, DIYers with some professional skills and large car repair centers

Choosing the right key programming tool can make programming your key fob more efficient. It's important to make sure your car is covered by the key programmer to avoid unnecessary trouble. If you're interested in purchasing the aforementioned tools, you can check their coverage here.

Nowadays, most key programming tools are very professional, and there are many brands that are very professional in this industry. If you want to buy top-notch key programming tools from other brands, you can check them out through the link below.

Conclusion

Whether you use a professional key programming tool or not, programming a Honda key is actually very simple. With a smart key programming device like Autel, you can easily add or replace keys at home, eliminating the need for dealerships or specialized dealerships.

With the right methods and tools, every car owner can easily handle key programming, enjoying a more secure and efficient driving experience.