Understanding Your Situation

You have (or will soon have) only one working key/fob for your 2024 Honda HR-V and want to add a spare before it becomes an emergency. Modern Honda smart keys require programming to the vehicle, and the emergency metal key insert must be cut to match your door lock.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm what you have: a working smart key fob, the emergency key insert, and your vehicle’s VIN (from registration/insurance).
  2. Check your owner’s packet and inside the fob for key numbers/tags; store this info securely (don’t leave it in the car).
  3. Decide your priority (lowest cost vs fastest vs OEM-only) and book an appointment with a Honda dealer or a reputable automotive locksmith who supports 2024 Honda smart keys.

Your Options

Honda dealer: OEM smart key + programming (recommended for guaranteed compatibility)

Cost: $250-$550 Time: Same day to 1-3 days (depending on key stock and appointment availability)

The dealer supplies a genuine Honda smart key fob, cuts the emergency key insert, and programs the new key to your HR-V using Honda diagnostic tools. They can also verify recalls/TSBs and ensure the key is the correct FCC/part number for your trim.

âś“ Pros:
  • Highest likelihood of correct parts and successful programming
  • OEM key quality and warranty support through the dealer
âś— Cons:
  • Often the most expensive option
  • May require scheduling and proof of ownership

Automotive locksmith: compatible/OEM key + programming

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day (if they have the correct key in stock) to 1-2 days

A mobile automotive locksmith sources an OEM or high-quality compatible smart key and programs it on-site. They can also cut the emergency key insert. This can be convenient if you’re busy or prefer not to visit the dealer.

âś“ Pros:
  • Often less expensive than the dealer
  • Mobile service can save time and towing costs if you later lose your only key
âś— Cons:
  • Not all locksmiths can program 2024 Honda smart keys—verify before booking
  • Aftermarket key quality can vary; ask about warranty and return policy

Buy your own key online, then pay for programming (hybrid approach)

Cost: $120-$450 total Time: 2-7 days (shipping + appointment)

You purchase a smart key fob (OEM or aftermarket) online, then hire a dealer or locksmith to cut the insert and program it. This can work, but compatibility is critical (correct frequency/FCC ID/part number).

âś“ Pros:
  • Potential savings if you find a legitimate OEM key at a good price
  • You can choose OEM vs aftermarket upfront
âś— Cons:
  • High risk of buying the wrong/locked/used key that cannot be programmed
  • Some dealers/locksmiths won’t program customer-supplied keys

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Waiting until you have zero working keys—adding a spare is usually simpler and cheaper when you still have one functioning key.

âś• Buying a used/refurbished smart key fob from an unknown source; many are already locked to another vehicle and may not be reprogrammable.

✕ Choosing a provider who won’t confirm compatibility (year/make/model/trim) or won’t quote programming + key cutting costs clearly.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until emergency
  • Not testing spare immediately
  • Buying incompatible aftermarket
  • Overpaying at dealership

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add a spare key to a 2024 Honda HR-V myself?

Typically, no. The 2024 HR-V uses a smart key system that generally requires professional programming tools to register a new key to the vehicle. The emergency metal key insert also needs to be cut to match your locks.

Do I need to bring the car in to get a spare key made?

Usually yes, because the new smart key must be programmed to the vehicle. A mobile automotive locksmith can often come to you; a dealer usually requires the vehicle present.

If I still have one working key, is it cheaper to make a spare?

In most cases, yes. When at least one working key is available, programming is typically more straightforward. If all keys are lost, the process can be more involved and expensive.

Will an aftermarket key fob work for a 2024 HR-V?

Sometimes, but it depends on exact compatibility and quality. Many owners prefer OEM for reliability. If you consider aftermarket, confirm the correct FCC ID/part number match and ask about warranty and programming success guarantees.

Do I need the emergency key insert cut if I’m only using the push-button start?

It’s strongly recommended. The insert is what lets you unlock the door if the fob battery dies or there’s a system issue. Having it cut and tested can prevent a lockout.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you’re down to one working key, treat getting a spare as time-sensitive—losing the last key can turn a planned visit into an urgent (and often more expensive) situation.

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Honda HR-V.

View HR-V Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04