The Honda pilot keyless start system problem can make its way due to several mechanical issues. However, no matter which model your vehicle is, there are easy solutions to this problem. But you need to identify the problem first.
So why does my honda pilot say keyless start problem? Well, battery problems in the key fob, a blown fuse in the system, faulty switch, and system sensor, bad wires, etc., are the reasons behind the keyless start system problem.
In this article, I will discuss the causes of the keyless start system problem in detail and also explain its solutions. So read the article till the end.
Why Does My Honda Pilot Says Keyless Start System Problem?
As numerous reasons could cause this problem, you have to look out for which one could be the reason behind this issue and fix it accordingly. Here are the reasons that could cause keyless start system problems. Check them out –
Battery problem in the key fob
One of the main reasons for the keyless start system problem is the battery problem in the key fob. When the battery by which the system works is dead, the system can’t work.
Additionally, the signal weakens if the voltage is low. The system sensor can’t pick up a weak signal. As a result, the system can’t do its job. The battery can die if the lights are turned on for a long time.
Besides, if the vehicle is left parking for a prolonged time, that can also make the battery dead. You should turn on the lights sparingly or keep them parked for a long time.
Blown fuse
A blown fuse in the system can disrupt the process and stop the system from working. In addition, when the fuse voltage consumes more current than it is designed for, it can blow up the fuse.
Consequently, the system won’t receive the voltage from working! Reportedly, a problem with the motor can significantly blow a fuse as well.
Faulty Switch
Another reason for the keyless start system going wrong is a faulty switch. The two most important causes behind the faulty switch are –
- Poor installation
- Gears or return springs may have worn out
When the starter bolts are loose, it can’t engage in giving current to start the system. Hence, you can’t start the car. Moreover, worn-out gears or return springs can be worn out, disrupting the process.
Faulty system sensor
When the system sensor detects the signal, the system starts working. But when the sensor itself is faulty, it cannot operate. The signal won’t reach the system to work. Besides this, dirt or grime can cover the sensor, which can stop the sensor from receiving signals.
Bad wires
When the voltage wire gets worn out, the wires can’t supply the voltage to the system. So, you must look for whether any wire is worn out. A damaged wire can create a buzzing sound. Twinkling lights can also be a sign of bad wire.
Brake problem
Sometimes, a brake problem could be a significant reason behind keyless start system problems. When you press the brake pedal with very little force, the vehicle won’t start. Because it starts only when you press the pedal.
Also, the brake lever getting loose could be a reason why the car is not starting. In this case, the cables need to be adjusted.
Cold weather
Cold weather can be one of the many reasons behind the keyless start system problems. Cold weather lowers the voltage. As I have mentioned already, the system sensor can’t pick up the lower voltage, so the system can’t work correctly.
Sometimes, a software glitch could be the reason behind this problem. Luckily, a glitch goes away on its own, so you could wait a few minutes before taking any step and see if it has been fixed.
How To Fix Keyless Start System Problem?
By now, you know the reasons behind the keyless system start problem. So, if any of the reasons are behind this problem, how can you fix it? Check out the solutions below –
Claim warranty for switch problem/Replace switch
Honda has officially recognized this problem and told its solution as well. So if you have the warranty from the authorized merchant, they will fix the problem, and you won’t need to spend money on it.
But if you don’t have a warranty, you need to replace the switch yourself or with a local mechanic.
Follow these steps to replace the switch –
Step 1- First, you have to take off the dashboard side lid
Step 2- As you have removed the cover, you now have to take out the trim panel
Step 3- Then you have to take out the dashboard center panel and disengage the connector
Step 4- Next, pull out the driver’s dashboard lower cover. You won’t have to remove it completely
Step 5- Then remove all screws
Step 6- Disengage the wire harness connector
Step 7- Remove the switch assembly
Step 8- Now install a new switch
Step 9- Once you have installed the new switch, reconnect and reinstall everything in the same order you took off
Step 10- Clear all DTCs with a particular diagnostic system
Finally, you have successfully installed the switch.
Replace the Key Fob battery
Replacing the key fob takes straightforward steps. Following the below steps, you can easily replace the essential fob battery. Have a look here –
Step 1 – First, slide the button of the key fob
Step 2- Now take a flathead screwdriver and try to pry it open
Step 3- Then, correctly install a new battery and seal off the assembly back
Remove dust by cloth
If the system sensor fails to detect signals, try removing the dust or grime with a fresh and dry cloth, which could cover the sensor. This can solve the problem, but if it still does not, you have to replace the system sensor with an auto-mechanic.
Tighten the brake lever
When a brake lever is loose, the start system won’t start. So you can fix this problem by tightening the brake lever. You will need an Allen key as a tool. Then tighten the cables using it.
Replace the fuse
When the fuse blows up, there is no other way to fix the solution except to replace the fuse.
You can replace the fuse in the system by following these steps-
Step 1. Look out for the diagram that could be on the back of the panel’s cover
Step 2. Take off the cover and look for the blown or broken fuse
Step 3. Once you have discovered the faulty fuse, remove it
Step 4. Now replace the fuse. Make sure you use the same amperage fuse as the old one
Step 5. Re-assemble the cover back to the place
Replace the wires
If the wires that are supposed to supply voltage gets worn out, you have to change those wires. You can do it by below steps –
Step 1. Find the same gauge wire
Step 2. Cut the damaged section
Step 3. Then cut the new replacement wire
Step 4. And stripe the end of the replacement wire
Step 5. Now slide the heat shrink
Step 6. Fray each of the wire ends with a piler
Step 7. Connect the wires and twist them
Step 8. Slide the heat shrink using a heat gun
Warm up the car
Vehicles struggle in cold weather a lot which significantly leads to various problems. However, you can warm up the car in the following ways –
- Warm up by driving the car
- Turn on the ignition, but do not start the engine
- Idle the engine for a minute
Conclusion
You have reached the end of this article. So the next time you question why my Honda pilot says there is a keyless start system problem, you will know the answer. The keyless start system problem is quite common, and you don’t need to get afraid of this problem.
Efficient solutions are there to fix this issue. But you need to be an expert if you are going to fix this issue yourself. Some of the answers are strictly prohibited from doing if you are not a technician. So think twice before taking a step that could save your vehicle from possible damages and spending more bucks.
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