Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience, especially when it comes to the sophisticated key fobs of modern vehicles like the 2020 Honda CRV. If you’re facing a 2020 Honda Crv Key Fob Replacement, you’re likely wondering about the best and most cost-effective way to get back on the road. This guide will walk you through the process, drawing on real-world experiences to help you navigate your key fob replacement smoothly.
Finding the Right Solution: Locksmith or Dealer?
When you need a 2020 Honda CRV key fob replacement, you have a couple of primary options: going to a dealership or using a qualified locksmith. While dealerships are often considered the default choice, especially for security reasons, they can sometimes be more expensive and less flexible in terms of scheduling. Many car owners are now turning to certified locksmiths who specialize in automotive key services. These professionals often offer quicker service and can be more budget-friendly.
For instance, one Honda CRV owner in the Washington, DC area sought help from Sure-Fit Security, a leading locksmith, who, while not handling car keys themselves, recommended Armen Lock, LLC. This highlights that specialized locksmiths are recognized within the industry as viable alternatives to dealerships for key fob issues.
Key Fob Selection and Part Numbers for 2020 CRV
For a 2020 Honda CRV key fob replacement, ensuring you get the correct key fob is crucial. Honda uses specific part numbers to match the features of your vehicle, such as seat memory positions in the hybrid models. To find the exact key fob for your 2020 CRV, it’s recommended to search using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on official Honda parts websites. For example, for a 2020 Honda CRV Hybrid with seat memory, you might need:
- Driver 1 key fob: Honda Part No.: 72147-TLA-A81
- Driver 2 key fob: Honda Part No.: 72147-TLA-A91
- Emergency key blank: Honda Part No.: 35118-T2A-A50
Purchasing a new, unused key fob in its original packaging from a Honda dealer or a reputable online parts source is generally advised to guarantee compatibility and avoid issues during programming. It is also important to note that even within the 2020 CRV range, hybrid versions may have different key fob requirements due to features like seat position memory linked to specific keys.
Programming and Key Cutting by a Locksmith
Once you have the correct key fob and emergency key blank, programming and cutting are the next steps. A skilled automotive locksmith can handle both. Programming ensures the key fob communicates with your 2020 Honda CRV’s immobilizer system, while cutting the emergency key blank to code allows manual door unlocking. Using a locksmith for these services can be significantly more economical than dealership rates. In one real case, a 2020 CRV owner was quoted $80 for programming up to 3 additional keys by Armen Lock, alongside costs for cutting the emergency key blanks.
It’s important to choose a locksmith with experience in Honda vehicles to ensure they can accurately cut and program your new 2020 Honda CRV key fob. Cutting the emergency key to the precise factory code is vital; an improperly cut key may not function in the door lock, rendering it useless in an emergency. The process typically involves cutting the emergency key blanks to code and then programming the new fobs to sync with your vehicle’s system.
Conclusion
Dealing with a 2020 Honda CRV key fob replacement doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding your options, from choosing between a locksmith and a dealer to identifying the correct key fob part numbers and the programming process, you can make an informed decision. Opting for a reputable locksmith can often provide a cost-effective and efficient solution, getting you back into your 2020 Honda CRV with minimal hassle and ensuring you have functional replacements in hand.
