What "Build My Honda" actually does

Build My Honda is Honda's official online tool that lets you design a vehicle the way you want it, see the price, and find dealers near you who have it or can order it. You pick the model, the exterior color, the interior trim, wheels, and add-on features — then the tool shows you the total cost and connects you to local Honda dealerships. It is not a purchase; it is a way to figure out exactly what you want before you talk to a dealer.

The tool works on Honda's main website and is free to use. When you finish building your vehicle, you can save your configuration, email it to yourself, or send it directly to a dealer. Some dealers will use your build as a starting point for ordering, while others may show you similar vehicles they already have in stock.

Key Takeaways

  • Build My Honda is a free online configurator on Honda's website where you select a model, colors, interior options, and features to see the final price.
  • The tool shows you real pricing for each option you add, so you know the cost before speaking to a dealer.
  • Once you finish building, you can save your configuration, email it, or share it with nearby Honda dealerships.
  • Dealers can use your build to order a vehicle for you or show you similar models they have available.
  • Using Build My Honda before visiting a dealer helps you negotiate from a position of knowing exactly what you want and what it costs.

How to start building your Honda

Go to Honda's official website and look for the "Build and Price" or "Build My Honda" link — it is usually in the main navigation menu or on the homepage. Click it, and you will see a list of current Honda models: Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot, Ridgeline, and others, depending on the year and what Honda is currently selling.

Select the model you are interested in. The tool will then ask you to choose a trim level — for example, the Civic comes in LX, Sport, EX, and Touring, each with different standard features and price points. Once you pick a trim, the configurator shows you the base price for that combination.

From there, you move through each customization step: exterior color, interior color and material, wheel style, and any available packages or individual features. The price updates in real time as you add or remove options, so you always see the total cost.

Understanding pricing and options as you build

Each option shows a price next to it — some are free (meaning they come with that trim), and others cost extra. Packages often bundle several features together at a lower total cost than buying them individually. For example, a "Technology Package" might include a larger touchscreen, navigation, and premium audio for one bundled price rather than charging you separately for each.

The final price shown includes the base vehicle, all the options you selected, and destination charges (the cost to ship the vehicle to the dealer). It does not include taxes, registration, or dealer fees, which vary by location and dealer. When you see the price on the configurator, that is what Honda charges; the dealer will add their own fees on top.

If you are unsure whether an option is worth the cost, you can toggle it on and off to see the price difference. This helps you decide which features matter most to you before you spend money.

Saving and sharing your build

Once you have finished configuring your vehicle, the tool offers several ways to keep or share your build. You can save it to your Honda account if you create one, which lets you come back to it later and make changes. You can also email the configuration to yourself or to someone else — useful if you want to share it with a spouse, family member, or friend before making a decision.

Most importantly, you can send your build directly to Honda dealerships in your area. The tool will ask for your zip code and show nearby dealers, then let you select which ones you want to contact. When you submit your build to a dealer, they receive your configuration and can reach out to you about ordering it or showing you similar vehicles they have in stock.

What happens after you build your vehicle

Sending your build to a dealer does not obligate you to buy from them or to buy at all. Dealers typically contact you within a day or two to discuss your build, answer questions, and talk about next steps. Some may have the exact vehicle you configured already on their lot; others will offer to order it for you, which usually takes four to eight weeks depending on current production schedules.

Having your build in hand when you talk to a dealer puts you in a stronger position. You know exactly what you want, what it should cost, and you can compare offers from multiple dealers. Dealers also appreciate it because they know your preferences and can be more efficient in their sales process.

If you decide not to move forward, straightforward do not respond to dealer contacts. Your build remains saved in your account if you want to revisit it later or make changes.

Comparing your build to dealer inventory

While Build My Honda shows you the price for a vehicle you order, dealers often have vehicles already in stock that are close to what you want. When a dealer contacts you about your build, ask them what they have available that matches your preferences. Sometimes a vehicle on the lot is close enough — maybe a different wheel style or interior color — and you can drive it home sooner than waiting for an order.

Use your build as a reference point, not a rigid requirement. If a dealer has a vehicle that is 90 percent of what you want and is available now, that may be worth more to you than waiting weeks for the exact configuration. On the other hand, if you have specific needs — like a particular color for resale value or a feature you use daily — stick with your build and order it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to buy from a dealer I send my build to?

No. Sending your build to a dealer is just a way to start a conversation. You can send it to multiple dealers, compare their offers, and choose who to work with — or decide not to buy at all. There is no obligation.

Can I build a Honda that is not currently in stock?

Yes. Build My Honda lets you configure any model and trim that Honda currently makes. If a dealer does not have that exact vehicle in stock, they can order it for you. Ordering typically takes four to eight weeks, but timing varies based on current production and demand.

Does the price on Build My Honda include taxes and dealer fees?

No. The price shown includes the vehicle, options, and destination charges from Honda. Taxes, registration, and dealer fees are added by the dealership and depend on your location and the dealer. Ask the dealer for a full breakdown before you commit.

What if I change my mind about my build after I send it to a dealer?

You can modify your build anytime in your Honda account or create a new one. If you have already sent it to a dealer and want to change it, contact the dealer directly or send them an updated build. Most dealers are flexible about changes early in the process.

Can I use Build My Honda on my phone?

Yes, the tool works on mobile devices, though a larger screen makes it easier to see all the options and color choices. You can start on your phone and finish on a computer, or vice versa — your build syncs if you are logged into your Honda account.