2009 Honda Pilot Key Replacement

The 2009–2015 Pilot uses the same key setup, so everything on this page applies to those years too. The full picture is on the Honda Pilot key guide.

2009 Honda Pilot: key facts

Key type: Remote-head key
Push-to-start: No
Transponder chip: ID46 (PCF7936/7961, Hitag 2)
Programming: OBD
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

MLBHLIK-1T remote-head keys.

What kind of key does a 2009 Honda Pilot use?

The 2009 Pilot uses a remote-head key. That means the metal blade, the transponder chip, and the lock/unlock buttons are all built into one plastic head. The car does not have push-to-start, so the key goes into the ignition and turns the way keys always have. The remote-head keys for this year are the MLBHLIK-1T type.

Inside the head is an ID46 transponder chip (the PCF7936/7961 Hitag 2 family). We checked that against two separate references, so this is verified for this year, not guesswork. The practical meaning for you: the blade can be cut to fit the locks, but the car will not start unless the chip in the key has been programmed to the Pilot.

Key type: remote-head, with the remote built into the key
Chip: ID46 (PCF7936/7961, Hitag 2)
Push-to-start: no
Programming method: through the OBD port, with no NASTF SDRM access required
A mechanical backup key exists for this setup

Spare key or all keys lost: how does it work on this Pilot?

Both situations are doable on this year. They are not the same job, though, and the difference matters for how you plan your day.

If you still have a working key, we can duplicate from it. For this Pilot, an original key is needed to make a duplicate, so bring the one you have rather than a loose remote or a worn copy that no longer works. If you have lost every key, an all-keys-lost job is still possible for this setup. We cut a new blade, then program a new chip-equipped key to the vehicle through the OBD port.

You call (213) 577-1366 and tell us the year, model, and whether you have any working key.
We confirm the key details against your VIN and the car itself.
We cut the blade to fit your locks, working from the original key or from the car if all keys are gone.
We program the transponder and the remote through the OBD port.
We test that the key starts the Pilot, turns the locks, and that the buttons work, before we hand it over.

What affects the price of a 2009 Pilot key?

We do not quote numbers in a web page because the real figure depends on your situation. Here is what moves the cost, so you can judge a quote from us or anyone else.

The biggest factor is spare versus all keys lost. Making a copy from a working key is usually the more economical route. An all-keys-lost job takes more steps, because there is no original to work from. Other factors include whether you need one key or several, whether the remote buttons and shell are in good shape or the old key head is cracked, and where the car is. A car at our Westwood storefront is a different job from a van visit to a parking lot or driveway.

One cost trap is worth knowing about. A hardware-store copy without a transponder chip will turn in the ignition but will not start the car. Those copies look cheap and then cost you twice.

Locked out or need a locksmith now?

We answer around the clock, every day of the year.

Call (213) 577-1366

What problems do we see on 2009 Pilots?

The common issues on this year are straightforward, and some can be fixed without replacing everything.

Remote battery failure is the simplest. If the buttons stop working but the key still starts the car, a battery change may be all you need. Cracked remote-head shells and worn buttons are next. A cracked shell does not always mean the key is dead, though a failing shell can put the chip and circuit board at risk. The last problem is worn ignition lock wafers on high-mileage cars. If a key sticks, turns roughly, or only works when jiggled, the issue may be the lock and not the key. We check this before cutting a new key, so you do not pay for a key that fails in a worn ignition.

What do we confirm by VIN before we cut?

The chip family and the OBD programming method are verified for this year. We still confirm the exact key and remote by VIN and in person before we cut or program anything, because we would rather check than assume. If anything about your particular Pilot does not match what we expect, we tell you plainly before work starts.

California requires locksmith companies to hold a BSIS LCO license, and you should ask any locksmith for it. A reputable company will give you the number without hesitation.

Why call Wilshire Lock & Key for this key?

We have been in business since 1987, with a storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Los Angeles 90024 and mobile service vans. You deal with one company, not a dispatcher who hands your call to whoever is available. David, the owner and lead technician, oversees the work.

For more on the model, see our Honda Pilot key page, the wider Honda car key guide, or our full car key service overview. If you would like to describe your situation in writing, use the contact page. The phone is answered 24 hours a day at (213) 577-1366.

Frequently asked questions

Does a 2009 Honda Pilot have push-to-start?

No. The 2009 Pilot uses a remote-head key that goes into the ignition and turns. It is not a push-button start system.

What transponder chip does a 2009 Honda Pilot use?

It uses an ID46 chip, in the PCF7936/7961 Hitag 2 family. Without a chip programmed to the car, a cut key will not start the engine.

Can you make a 2009 Pilot key if I lost all my keys?

Yes, all keys lost is possible for this setup. We cut a new blade and program a new key to the car through the OBD port. We confirm the details by VIN first.

Do I need my original key to get a copy?

Yes, for duplication on this Pilot an original key is needed. If you have no working key, we handle it as an all-keys-lost job instead.

Will a hardware-store copy start my Pilot?

No. A copy without a programmed transponder chip may open the door or turn in the ignition, but the car will not start.

Is there a backup mechanical key for this Pilot?

Yes, a mechanical backup key exists for this setup. It can open the car if the remote fails, but it will not start the engine without a programmed chip.

My key sticks in the ignition. Do I need a new key?

Not always. Worn ignition lock wafers are a known issue on high-mileage 2009 Pilots, so the lock may be the problem. We check both before replacing anything.

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Reviewed by David, Owner & Lead Technician, Wilshire Lock & Key — in the locksmith trade since 1987.

Last updated 2026-10-11.