Question: How do you start a Honda with a dead key fob?
Answer: To start a Honda with a dead key fob, just press the Start/Stop button next to the steering wheel with your key fob instead of with your finger.
If that sounds simple, that’s because it is—but let’s look at these steps in a bit more detail just in case you’re having trouble.
How to start a Honda with a dead key fob
Step 1. Unlock the door:
- Look for a small tab on the back of the key fob.
- Slide the tab open to reveal a hidden mechanical key.
- Use this key to manually unlock the driver’s side door. If your Honda doesn’t have a visible key hole, pull the door handle to reveal a spot behind it to insert your key.
Step 2. Start the engine:
- Once inside the car, put the mechanical key back into the key fob.
- Press the brake pedal with your foot and keep the fob near the Start/Stop button.
- Press the Start/Stop button directly with the key fob. If you have an older Honda with a push-button start, try pressing the Start/Stop button twice quickly while holding the fob close to it.
This method works because your car’s system should still detect the key fob’s signal even if the battery is dead. If you have any issues with this method, you may need to contact roadside assistance or visit a Honda dealership for further help.
How much is a new battery for a Honda key fob?
You can usually find a CR2025 battery for around $3 depending on where you shop. Changing the battery is simple, but if you prefer to have it done professionally, a dealership or automotive locksmith might charge a small fee to replace it for you.
How to replace the battery in your key fob
Replacing your Honda’s key fob battery is simple, and should only take a few minutes. Here’s how:
- Remove the metal key from the fob following the steps we described earlier.
- Using the key, a screwdriver, or a paperclip, gently open the case by turning or prying from the small notch.
- Once the case pops open, which should happen easily, hold your thumb above the battery.
- Carefully pry out the dead battery and replace it with a new one.
- Then line the two halves of the fob back up and press them together until you hear a snap.
Test the fob to ensure it’s working properly. If it doesn’t, check the battery orientation and connections, or try reprogramming the key.
How to reprogram a Honda key
If the worst has happened and you need to reprogram your Honda key, don’t worry. Here’s what you need to do:
- Get inside your Honda, close all doors, and have your key and fobs ready.
- Insert the key, turn it to the “On” position, and hold the “Lock” button on the fob for one second.
- Release the button, turn the key to “Off,” and repeat this step two more times.
- Turn the key to “On,” hold the “Lock” button again, and wait for the doors to automatically lock and unlock.
- Press the “Lock” button once more to finish programming, then turn the key to “Off” to exit. Repeat for additional fobs if needed. If this still doesn’t allow you to use your fob with your Honda, it might be time to take your car to an authorized dealer or a licensed automotive locksmith.
Sarah Gray is an insurance writer with nearly a decade of experience in publishing and writing. Sarah specializes in writing articles that educate car owners and buyers on the full scope of car ownership—from shopping for and buying a new car to scrapping one that’s breathed its last and everything in between. Sarah has authored over 1,500 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from first-time buyer programs to how to get a salvage title for a totaled car. Prior to joining Jerry, Sarah was a full-time professor of English literature and composition with multiple academic writing publications.
Everett Cook is an award-winning journalist and editor with more than 10 years of experience across a variety of industries. In editing for Jerry, Everett’s mission is to help readers have a better understanding of the costs of owning or leasing a car and to better understand their vehicle in terms of insurance and repairs. Prior to joining Jerry, Everett was an editor for Axios. His previous work has been featured in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Atlantic, Atlantic Re:think, The Boston Globe, USA Today, and others. He’s also been a freelance writer and editor with experience in SEO, audience building, and long-term content roadmaps. Everett is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan.
