Understanding Your Situation

The Accord uses a proximity “smart key” fob for keyless entry and push-button start. When the fob is lost, the vehicle may be inaccessible or undrivable, and the missing fob may still be able to unlock/start the car until it’s removed from the vehicle’s authorized key list.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm whether you have a spare key fob and locate the mechanical emergency key (inside the fob) if you still have one fob available.
  2. If you suspect the fob was stolen (or lost with identifying info like your address), park the car in a secure location and consider having the lost fob erased/disabled from the car as soon as possible.
  3. Gather essentials for replacement: VIN, registration/title, and a government photo ID; then contact a Honda dealer or a reputable automotive locksmith for smart-key service.

Your Options

Honda dealer replacement (new OEM smart key + programming)

Cost: $250-$600+ Time: Same day / 1-3 days

The dealer supplies an OEM Honda smart key fob and programs it to your Accord. They can also remove the lost fob from the vehicle’s system (key erasure) so it can no longer start/unlock the car.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM parts and correct programming for your exact trim/immobilizer system
  • Can typically erase the missing fob from the vehicle for security
âś— Cons:
  • Usually the most expensive option
  • May require an appointment and/or towing if the car can’t be driven

Mobile automotive locksmith (smart key replacement + programming)

Cost: $200-$500 Time: Same day

A qualified locksmith comes to the vehicle, provides a compatible smart key fob (OEM or aftermarket depending on availability), programs it, and may be able to perform key deletion/erasure on supported systems.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient mobile service—often no towing needed
  • Often less expensive and faster than a dealer
âś— Cons:
  • Capabilities vary—some may not be able to erase a lost fob on newer models
  • Aftermarket fobs can vary in quality; verify warranty and return policy

Insurance claim (comprehensive coverage) for lost/stolen key

Cost: $0-$600+ (depends on deductible/coverage) Time: 1-7 days

If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurer may reimburse some or all of the cost to replace the fob and rekey/reprogram as needed, minus your deductible. Documentation is typically required.

âś“ Pros:
  • May significantly reduce out-of-pocket cost
  • Can cover related expenses in some cases (e.g., towing, lock rekeying) depending on policy
âś— Cons:
  • Deductible may exceed the replacement cost
  • Claims process can take time and may require receipts and/or a police report if stolen

Tow to dealer if no working fob is available

Cost: $100-$250 (tow) + $250-$600+ (keys/programming) Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If you have zero working keys/fobs and the car can’t be put in a drivable state, towing to a dealer may be required for programming and security procedures depending on equipment and policy.

âś“ Pros:
  • Ensures the vehicle is serviced where full OEM-level tools are available
  • May be the simplest path when all keys are lost
âś— Cons:
  • Added towing cost and logistics
  • More downtime if parts need to be ordered

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Buying an unverified “cheap” fob online without confirming it matches the 2024 Accord’s FCC ID/part compatibility and is new/virgin (many used fobs can’t be re-registered).

✕ Delaying key erasure if the fob may have been stolen—until it’s removed from the car’s system, it could potentially unlock/start the vehicle.

✕ Using DIY programming claims for push-start smart keys—most 2024 smart keys require professional tools and security access; repeated failed attempts can waste money or time.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Calling dealer first without getting quotes
  • Not checking insurance coverage
  • Rushing to tow to dealership
  • Not considering mobile locksmiths

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my 2024 Honda Accord if I lost the key fob?

Only if you still have another working fob. If you have no working fob, you typically won’t be able to start the car, and you may not be able to unlock it without the mechanical emergency key. A dealer or qualified locksmith can create and program a replacement.

Should I erase the lost key fob from my Accord?

Yes—if the fob is truly lost (and especially if stolen), ask the dealer or locksmith to remove/disable it from the vehicle’s authorized keys. This reduces the risk that someone who finds the fob can access or start the car.

How many key fobs can the 2024 Accord have?

The exact limit can vary by system, but most vehicles support multiple registered keys. A dealer or locksmith can tell you how many are currently registered and can remove missing ones when adding replacements.

Is an aftermarket key fob OK for a 2024 Accord?

Sometimes, but compatibility and reliability vary. If you choose aftermarket, use a reputable supplier, confirm it’s compatible with your specific Accord trim, and ensure the provider offers a warranty and can program it successfully.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If the fob was stolen or lost with identifying information (address, garage opener, documents), treat it as urgent: secure the vehicle and arrange key erasure/replacement as soon as possible to reduce theft risk.

Need Detailed Information?

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

View Accord Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04