Lost your spare Honda car key or need an extra one? Getting a replacement key from the dealership can be expensive, often due to the labor costs of programming. Fortunately, for many Honda models, including the Fit, you can program a new key fob yourself, potentially saving you a significant amount of money. This guide will walk you through the steps to program your Honda car key remote, using a method that has been reported to work for models with keyless entry.
Before you begin, it’s important to understand that we’re focusing on programming the remote transmitter or key fob, which controls the lock and unlock functions. Modern Honda keys also contain an immobilizer chip that is programmed to the car’s computer to prevent theft. This procedure may program the remote functions, but immobilizer programming might require professional equipment. However, for many users simply needing remote functionality, this DIY method can be effective.
Here’s a step-by-step sequence you can try to program your Honda key remote:
Step-by-Step Guide to Program Your Honda Key Remote
Before starting, ensure all doors, hood, and hatch are properly closed. It’s also crucial to perform the steps within the specified time limits (1-4 seconds between each step) for successful programming.
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position (II). This is typically the position right before you would crank the engine to start.
- Within 1 to 4 seconds of turning the ignition ON, press the lock button on your key fob.
- Within 1 to 4 seconds, turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
- Again, within 1 to 4 seconds of turning the ignition OFF, turn the ignition switch back to the ON position (II).
- Within 1 to 4 seconds, press the lock button on your key fob again.
- Within 1 to 4 seconds, turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
- Repeat steps 4, 5, and 6 two more times. That means turning the ignition ON, pressing the lock button, then OFF, for a total of four cycles of ON-press-OFF.
- After the fourth cycle of turning the ignition ON and pressing the lock button, and then turning it OFF, immediately turn the ignition switch to the ON position (II) one last time.
- Within 1 to 4 seconds, press the lock button on your key fob.
- Listen for the sound of the door lock actuators. You should hear them cycle (lock and unlock) within 1 to 4 seconds. This confirms you are in programming mode. Immediately press the lock button on the key fob you are programming again to store the code.
- If you have additional key fobs you want to program, within 10 seconds of hearing the door locks cycle, press the lock button on each of the remaining key fobs. Listen for the door locks to cycle after pressing the lock button on each fob, confirming each remote code is stored.
- Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and remove the key from the ignition.
- Test the programmed key fobs to ensure they are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons.
Important Notes:
- Timing is Critical: The 1 to 4 second intervals between steps are important for the programming sequence to work. Try to be precise with your timing.
- Disable Memory Feature (Potentially): Some users suggest disabling the remote’s memory feature before programming by holding the lock and unlock buttons together until the LED on the remote blinks twice. This step was mentioned in the original source and might be necessary for some Honda models.
- OEM Key: This procedure is intended for use with a genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Honda key. Aftermarket keys may not be compatible with this programming method.
- Immobilizer Chip: As mentioned earlier, this procedure primarily focuses on the remote functions. If your new key needs to be programmed for the immobilizer system to start the engine, you might still need to visit a dealer or locksmith with specialized programming tools.
By following these steps carefully, you may be able to program your Honda car key remote yourself and gain the convenience of a spare key without incurring high dealership labor costs. Remember to consult your Honda owner’s manual for any specific instructions related to your vehicle model, as programming procedures can vary slightly between different Honda vehicles and years.
