Honda-Tech - Honda Forum Discussion

Honda: Why is My Key Fob Not Working?

The key fob remote offers luxury to your Honda, and it requires general maintenance. Learn how you can keep your key fob working from the comfort of your home.

By Charlie Gaston - March 10, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Civic (1992-2000), and Accord (1990-2002).

Are the buttons on the key fob no longer working? A non-functional key fob can usually be repaired with minor hassle, and won't require a costly replacement. In most cases, you can fix a faulty key fob without needing to take a trip to your local Honda dealer.

Materials Needed

  • Replacement battery
  • Phillips screwdriver

Step 1 – Check the signal

The signal may not be strong enough for the car to respond.

  • Press the unlock or alarm button on the key fob to determine if the device is sending a strong signal to the car.
  • Because proximity matters, move closer to the car to determine if any signal strength is being produced by the key fob.
  • Replace the battery if the signal isn't detected.
  • Remove the back of the key fob using a Phillips screwdriver. Replace the battery as directed by the manufacturer. Check that the positive side is facing up before snapping the back of the key fob back into place.
  • Check the signal. If it is working, the door will lock, unlock, or sound the alarm as directed.
Figure 1. A battery that will work with the Honda Accord's key fob.

Step 2 – Enter programming mode to reset key fob

If the key fob was disrupted by an electronic emitter, the manufacturer's programming codes will no longer work, and the key fob will need to be reset.

  • Turn the ignition switch to the "ON" position.
  • Press the valet's disarm button, which is located between the stereo and CD control buttons on the instrument panel.
  • Continue to hold the disarm button, and check that the power doors cycle. Hold until the last step is carried out.
  • Press the "lock" and "unlock" buttons as the power doors cycle, and the transmitter accepts the codes.
Figure 2. A Honda Accord key fob.

Pro Tip

Even if a key fob was previously programmed and functioning properly, additional maintenance may be needed.

Step 3 – Purchase a replacement

The old key fob might be broken. On the other side of the key fob's thin external plastic shell is a sensitive interior circuit board, which could become damaged when pressed under the weight of a heavy object like a book. If the circuit board is damaged, it would need to be replaced by a local Honda dealer. Water damage could also cause the circuit board to stop transmitting a signal.

Pro Tip

Expect to pay approximately $75 or more for a replacement key fob. If a replacement set is not available in stock at the dealership, the dealer would need to order one.

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