2023 Honda Civic Key Fob Guide (US): Types, FCC IDs, Batteries & Replacement Options

The 2023 Honda Civic sold in the United States commonly uses a proximity “Smart Entry” key fob, and some trims also support remote engine start. Because Honda key fobs can look similar across years and trims, the most reliable way to match the correct replacement is by verifying the FCC ID printed on the back of an existing fob. Consumers generally find that costs vary widely depending on whether a new OEM fob is purchased and whether cutting/programming is required. Options typically include OEM replacement fobs, refurbished OEM fobs, and compatible aftermarket shells or remotes (where supported).

2 Key Types
$250-$650 Dealer Range
$90-$300 Aftermarket Range

Compatible Key Fob Types

The following key types are typically compatible with the 2023 Honda Civic. Compatibility varies by trim and options.

Smart Key (Proximity / Smart Entry) — Civic Sedan/Hatchback

FCC ID: KR5V2X

This is the most common 2023 Honda Civic key fob in the US. It uses proximity (passive) communication so the doors can unlock when the fob is nearby, and the engine can start with a push button when the fob is inside the vehicle. The physical emergency key blade inside the fob can unlock the driver door if the fob battery is dead.

Features

  • Smart Entry (proximity unlock/lock)
  • Push-button start authorization
  • Trunk release (varies by body style/trim)

Buttons

unlocklockpanic

Battery

CR2032

3-5 years typical typical lifespan

Dealer OEM $250-$550 Programming included
Aftermarket $90-$250 Programming separate

Programming

🏢 Dealer Required

Adding a proximity Smart Key typically requires security access with Honda-capable diagnostic equipment. Many replacements also require cutting the internal emergency key blade to match the vehicle.

⚠️ Common Issues

  • CR2032 battery drains faster in extreme cold/heat or if stored too close to the vehicle
  • Intermittent proximity detection (often battery-related or due to interference)

Smart Key with Remote Engine Start (where equipped)

FCC ID: KR5V2X

On 2023 Civic trims/packages equipped with remote start, the Smart Key includes an additional remote-start button sequence (button layout may show a circular arrow). Remote start availability depends on trim and equipment, and some vehicles rely on HondaLink subscription services for certain remote functions rather than fob-based start.

Features

  • Smart Entry (proximity unlock/lock)
  • Push-button start authorization
  • Remote engine start (only if vehicle is equipped)

Buttons

unlocklockpanicremote start

Battery

CR2032

3-5 years typical typical lifespan

Dealer OEM $300-$650 Programming included
Aftermarket $120-$300 Programming separate

Programming

🏢 Dealer Required

Remote-start functionality generally requires the vehicle to be equipped for it; a remote-start fob does not add remote start to a vehicle that lacks the supporting hardware/software. Matching the FCC ID and the exact button configuration is important.

⚠️ Common Issues

  • Remote start range complaints (affected by environment, battery strength, and interference)
  • Wrong button layout purchased (remote start icon present but vehicle not equipped)

Cost Comparison: Your Options

🏢

Dealership

$250-$650
  • âś“ OEM quality guaranteed
  • âś“ Programming included
  • âś“ Warranty coverage
  • âś— Higher cost
  • âś— May require appointment

Best for: Warranty coverage, guaranteed compatibility

🔧

Locksmith

$180-$450
  • âś“ Often same-day service
  • âś“ Mobile options available
  • âś“ Programming included
  • âś“ Often OEM parts
  • â–ł Verify credentials

Best for: Speed, convenience, moderate savings

📦

Aftermarket Online

$90-$300
  • âś“ Lowest cost option
  • âś“ Wide selection
  • âś— Programming not included
  • âś— Compatibility varies
  • â–ł Check return policy

Best for: DIY-capable owners, budget-conscious

Typical price ranges are highest for new OEM fobs purchased and programmed through a dealership, and lower for refurbished/aftermarket fobs when compatible. Consumers generally find the final total depends on whether the emergency key blade must be cut, how many keys are being added, and local labor rates. Some “aftermarket” listings are shells only (no electronics), which can reduce cost if the original circuit board is reused.

đź›’ Buyer's Checklist

Before purchasing a replacement key fob for your 2023 Honda Civic, verify these points:

1 Verify the FCC ID matches your current key (printed on the back of the fob)
2 Confirm the vehicle is US-market (FCC IDs and frequencies can differ from Canada/other markets)
3 Match the button layout exactly (especially if remote start is present)
4 Check whether you need the internal emergency key blade cut (and whether a blank is included)
5 Avoid listings that only say “fits Honda” without FCC ID and part-number details

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

âś—

Buying a look-alike fob without matching the FCC ID and expecting it to work

âś—

Assuming a remote-start fob will add remote start to a Civic that isn’t equipped for it

âś—

Replacing the entire fob when the issue is only a weak CR2032 battery or a damaged fob shell

Related Model Years

Key fob compatibility often spans multiple model years. These years typically share similar key systems:

2022 2023 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

How can a 2023 Honda Civic owner confirm the correct FCC ID for a replacement key fob?

Check the back of an existing working fob for the FCC ID (commonly KR5V2X on many US 2023 Civics) and compare it to the replacement listing. Also compare the button layout and whether the fob includes remote start. If no original fob is available, the vehicle’s VIN and trim/equipment details are typically used to identify the correct part, but the FCC ID on the original fob is the most direct match.

Does the 2023 Honda Civic key fob use a CR2032 battery?

Yes—most 2023 Honda Civic Smart Key fobs in the US use a CR2032 coin-cell battery. Consumers generally find that battery life varies with climate, storage habits, and how often the fob communicates with the car. If the car shows “Keyless Remote Battery Low,” replacing the CR2032 is usually the first step to try.

Can a used 2023 Honda Civic smart key fob be reprogrammed to another Civic?

In many cases, a previously registered (used) proximity smart key is difficult or impossible to add to a different vehicle depending on how it was originally locked to the prior car’s security system. Some sellers advertise “refurbished” fobs that are restored for reuse, but results can vary. Options typically include purchasing a new OEM fob or a verified refurbished unit specifically intended to be re-registered.

If the 2023 Civic has remote start, do all replacement fobs automatically support it?

No. The replacement fob must match the correct FCC ID and have the correct button configuration, and the vehicle must already be equipped for fob-based remote start. A remote-start-capable fob does not typically enable remote start on a vehicle that lacks the supporting equipment. Matching trim/package and the original fob’s layout is the safest approach.

What should be done if a 2023 Honda Civic says “Keyless Remote Not Detected”?

A weak CR2032 battery is a common cause, along with interference or the fob being too far from the cabin. The emergency key blade can unlock the door, and the vehicle may still start using the backup starting method described in the owner’s manual for a low/dead fob battery. If the message persists with a fresh battery, the fob or the vehicle’s receiver system may need diagnosis.

Need Help With a Specific Situation?

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Last updated: 2026-01-04