Hey guys. Someone broke into my '98 Accord last night. They cut off the trim around the steering column and bashed the crap our of the area around the ignition system. Even the cast aluminum piece is broken, as are a lot of the electronic bits around there. Is this something that requires the dealer to fix, since it involves security electronics and re-keying (the key has a chip in it), or can any shop fix this? Or, how hard is the to DIY?

 

Your accord has an Immobilizer system, your going to need a new lock cylinder and key to match (the new lock cylinder will come with 2 keys). If the plastic Immobilizer ring around your lock cylinder is damaged (and it definatly is), it will need replaced as well. The dealer has to program your new key and immobilizer system with the Honda factory scan tool. Technically you could replace these parts yourself but you wont be able to drive the car until the Immobilizer programing is done. The lock cylinder itself is bolted to the steering column with sheer bolts (bolts where the head breaks off when enough torque is applied to them) as a theft deterent. I would take it to the dealer.

 

Thanks. The key cylinder was on the floor and still turns freely.