Thieves in San Jose Use Key Programmer to Steal 2022 Honda Accord

Honda Accord Stolen with Key Programmer in San Jose

San Jose, CA – A 2022 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T has been reported stolen in what investigators describe as a textbook example of a sophisticated modern vehicle theft. The incident occurred in the early morning hours of August 26, 2025, in the Evergreen neighborhood of San Jose, California. Surveillance footage captured the theft at approximately 3:26 a.m., and a report was filed with the San Jose Police Department under case number 25-238-0228.

The Theft: High-Tech Tactics with a Low-Tech Entry

According to the report, the vehicle’s driver-side lock was found at the scene, suggesting that the thief physically popped the lock to gain entry. This method is known to bypass the factory Honda alarm system, which often does not trigger when the lock cylinder is removed directly.

Once inside, the thief appears to have used an electronic key programmer, a device commonly used by locksmiths but increasingly exploited by criminals. These devices—such as the Autel IM608—connect to the car’s OBD-II port, allowing the thief to program a new key fob on the spot. With the new key accepted by the car’s onboard computer, the suspect was able to start the car and drive off in under two minutes.

Suspect Behavior and Post-Theft Activity

In a disturbing development, the same vehicle has been spotted twice since the theft, each time involved in attempted auto thefts in the same area. Both incidents occurred early in the morning, and police believe the stolen Honda is now being used as a tool vehicle for organized theft crews.

The car’s factory-installed GPS tracking system was removed and later recovered several blocks from the original theft location, indicating a calculated effort to avoid detection. Authorities also believe the license plates have been swapped—either with another vehicle’s stolen plates or with a counterfeit temporary tag.

Why Hondas Are Being Targeted

This theft highlights a growing national trend: late-model Hondas, particularly push-to-start models like the Accord, Civic, CR-V, and Pilot, are increasingly being targeted due to their popularity and resale value. Thieves are now turning to advanced key programming devices rather than older hot-wiring methods once used to steal Kias and Hyundais.

Unlike traditional techniques, this method requires no access to the victim’s key fob. Instead, a blank key is programmed through the OBD port using a high-end tablet.

Vehicle Details

• Make/Model: 2022 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T
• VIN: 1HGCV2F38NA024237
• Engine: 2.0L L4 DOHC 16V TURBO
• Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic
• Body Style: Sedan, 4-door
• San Jose PD Case #: 25-238-0228

Since the theft, it’s possible that the Honda Accord has been painted or wrapped a different color, and the VIN has been swapped or altered.