2017 Honda Pilot Key Fob Programming Guide

Losing a key fob for your modern vehicle can be stressful, but getting a replacement doesn't have to be a mystery. As an ASE-certified electrical technician and locksmith, I get daily questions about Honda smart keys. For the 2017 Honda Pilot, the vehicle features a sophisticated push-to-start system that requires specific proximity fobs.

Here is everything you need to know about replacing, programming, and maintaining your 2017 Honda Pilot key fob.

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

If you are hoping to sit in the driver's seat and perform a sequence of door lock clicks and ignition cycles to program your new remote, I have to be the bearer of bad news. The 2017 Honda Pilot does not support DIY on-board programming.

Because the 2017 Pilot utilizes a push-to-start proximity smart key system, the vehicle's immobilizer (which uses an advanced Philips ID47 / Honda G-type transponder chip) is strictly locked down. To program a new fob, a specialized OBD2 scan tool or key programmer must be connected to the vehicle's diagnostic port to securely introduce the new fob's MAC address to the Pilot's immobilizer control unit (IMMO/Keyless Access Unit).

What the professional process looks like:

1. The technician connects an advanced scan tool to the OBD2 port under your driver's side dashboard.
2. They bypass or ping the Honda security gateway.
3. The tool communicates with the Keyless Access Unit to initiate the learning phase.
4. The technician places all fobs (new and old) in the vehicle and follows the prompts to register each proximity key.
5. Finally, the emergency blade hidden inside the fob is laser-cut using a specialized CNC key cutting machine.

Note: All fobs must be present during programming. Any fobs not present during this procedure will be un-learned and will no longer start the vehicle.

Battery replacement

If your current fob is simply struggling to unlock the doors or the dashboard reads "Key Battery Low," you likely just need a new CR2032 battery. This is a very easy DIY fix.

1. Slide the release latch on the back of the key fob to pull out the metal emergency valet key.
2. Notice the small gap in the center of the plastic housing where the metal key used to sit.
3. Insert a flathead screwdriver (or the tip of the metal key itself) into this gap and gently pry the two halves of the key fob apart.
4. Remove the old battery and insert the new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing up.
5. Snap the two halves of the key fob back together firmly.
6. Reinsert the metal emergency key.

Where to buy a replacement fob

When sourcing a replacement smart key for your 2017 Honda Pilot, you have three primary avenues:

• The Dealership: This is the most reliable but most expensive option. An OEM fob from the dealer will run between $150 and $250, plus an additional $120 to $180 for programming and cutting. Pros: Guaranteed to work, OEM quality. Cons: Very expensive.
• Automotive Locksmith: Local mobile locksmiths can provide and program aftermarket or refurbished OEM fobs on-site. Pros: Usually 20-40% cheaper than the dealership, and they come to you. Cons: Quality of aftermarket fobs can vary depending on the locksmith's supplier.
• Amazon / eBay / Online Retailers: You can buy unlocked aftermarket fobs online for $30 to $60. Pros: Cheapest upfront cost. Cons: You still have to pay a locksmith to cut and program it. Be warned: many locksmiths and dealers will not guarantee customer-supplied parts, and if you accidentally buy a "locked" or used fob, it cannot be programmed to your Pilot.

If on-board programming isn't supported

Because on-board programming is impossible for the 2017 Honda Pilot, you must budget for professional programming. The immobilizer system is designed to prevent vehicle theft, meaning only authorized diagnostic equipment can bypass it.

If you purchase a fob online, expect to pay an automotive locksmith or shop between $75 and $150 to cut the emergency blade and hook up their OBD2 programmer. Make sure you call ahead and confirm they have the equipment to program Honda proximity keys and laser-cut high-security HON66 blades. If you are entirely locked out of the vehicle with no working keys (an "All Keys Lost" situation), expect to pay a premium for the mobile service call.

Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.