Losing a car key or needing a spare is a common hassle for car owners. If you drive a 2007 Honda Fit, you might encounter a unique situation when it comes to key fobs. This guide dives into the specifics of the 2007 Honda Fit Key Fob, highlighting the crucial details you need to know for replacement and programming.
The owner of a 2007 Honda Fit Sport recently learned firsthand about the nuances of replacing their key. Coming with only one key upon purchase, they embarked on a journey to obtain spares, quickly discovering that not all Honda Fit key fobs are created equal, especially between the 2007 and 2008 models.
The key takeaway? The 2007 and 2008 Honda Fit Sport models utilize different immobilizer chips, despite using the same remote frequency. This difference lies specifically in the Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) chip embedded within the key fob.
For the 2007 Honda Fit, you need to be aware of the 8E glass chip. The 2008 model, in contrast, uses the more widely adopted ID46 chip. This seemingly small difference is critical when ordering replacement keys.
Seeking a cost-effective solution, the owner purchased keys online from eBay, specifically listed as compatible with the 2007 Fit Sport and equipped with the 8E chip. Upon arrival, a discrepancy was noticed. While the keyless remote indicated “G8D-384H-A,” the original key displayed “OUCG8D-380H-A.” The initial fear was incompatibility and programming issues.
Further investigation revealed that “OUCG8D/G8D” likely represents the remote frequency, while the “380/384” numbers might differentiate the number of buttons on the remote. The purchased remote, despite having a physical button for trunk release molded into the casing, was a 2+1 button remote (Lock, Unlock, Panic), lacking the functional trunk release feature of a 3-button remote. Fortunately, the remote keyless entry programming process proceeded smoothly, confirming remote frequency compatibility.
The next step was getting the keys cut and programmed to start the car. At a local locksmith, the keys were cut for $25 each. However, the RFID pairing, priced at $45 per key, proved unsuccessful. The locksmith, without explanation, couldn’t program the keys to the car, leaving the owner with newly cut but unusable keys.
A second locksmith, boasting high ratings, offered more insight. Using a diagnostic machine, he confirmed the original key contained an 8E chip. Upon testing the eBay keys, the machine immediately identified an ID46 chip. This explained the failure of the first locksmith – the incorrect chip type meant the keys were fundamentally incompatible with the 2007 Honda Fit’s immobilizer system. The second locksmith clarified that while ID46 chips were readily available, 8E chips were not in his stock.
Comparison of the ID46 chip (left) and the 8E chip (right) for Honda keys.
Contacting the eBay seller and providing photographic evidence of the received keys led to the discovery of a shipping error. The seller confirmed the wrong keys were sent and dispatched replacement 8E chips separately.
Visually, the ID46 chip resembles a tiny brick, while the 8E chip has a distinct appearance, looking like a small, glass medicine capsule. This visual difference can be a helpful identifier when inspecting chips.
The distinctive glass “medicine pill” appearance of the 8E replacement chip.
Awaiting the arrival of the correct 8E chips, the owner prepared for a return visit to the more knowledgeable second locksmith. This locksmith quoted $60 to program up to three transponder chips, a potentially better value compared to the first locksmith’s $45 per key charge.
It’s important to understand that key programming can be done in two primary ways: OEM pairing and aftermarket cloning. OEM pairing involves directly programming the new key to the vehicle’s immobilizer system. Aftermarket cloning, on the other hand, duplicates the data from an existing working key onto the new key. Locksmiths may utilize either method depending on the situation and equipment.
Key Takeaways for 2007 Honda Fit Key Fob Replacement:
- Identify Your Chip Type: Crucially, confirm you need the 8E chip, specific to the 2007 Honda Fit. 2008 models use the more common ID46 chip.
- Verify Seller Listings: When purchasing online, meticulously check listings to ensure they specify “8E chip” and “2007 Honda Fit.”
- Communicate with Locksmiths: When seeking professional programming, explicitly mention you have a 2007 Honda Fit and require 8E chip programming.
- Visual Chip Inspection: Familiarize yourself with the visual difference between ID46 and 8E chips.
- Consider a Reputable Locksmith: Choosing a locksmith with good reviews and demonstrable knowledge can save time and frustration.
Replacing a 2007 Honda Fit key fob requires attention to detail, specifically regarding the 8E chip. By understanding this key difference and taking proactive steps, you can navigate the replacement process smoothly and ensure you have functional spare keys for your vehicle.
