I have had problems with two "Theft Deterrent" keys on my Hondas. I put theft deterrent in quotes because the only thing it has done for me has left me stranded - twice. Once in my 2003 Pilot (fixed for $400) and now in my 2007 CR-V. In each case the key works fine in the door etc, but won't turn the ignition. I'm about ready to desert Honda and change brands. I didn't ask for theft deterrent keys - all I want is keys that will start the car like I've done for decades with other brands. Can this feature be disabled without paying Honda dealer $400 to fix?

 

Its not the factory immoblizer causing this. Its a problem with mechanical and not electrical. If the key unlocks the doors and not the ignition. And it worked before in the ignition. You need a new key cylinder. Not hard at all to change.

 

Yeah the key doesn't even turn in the ignition? Then it sounds like a bad switch. If the key turns but the car does not start (or even crank) it could be the key or the immobilizer.

Weird that it happened in two different cars of yours though, I have never heard of that before unless it was a copied/non-OEM key.

 

transponders are pretty much standard these days. i agree with the previous two responses, though. it seems like a mechanical problem. maybe, your next car should have push button start w/ smart key. not sure what mini vans / utility vehicles have that, though

James Stanton.

 

It is happening now on my 02 Pilot.