Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How do I unlock a Honda steering wheel without the key?

My son went out of town for the weekend, but he happened to park his Honda Fit behind me and took his keys with him. Now I can’t get my car out of the driveway. I want to try to put his car in neutral and push it out of the way, but the steering wheel is locked. How can I unlock the steering wheel without the key on a Honda?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Wow, what a predicament! Sounds like your son may owe you one in the near future. Unlocking the steering wheel of a
Honda
without the key is extraordinarily difficult and requires you to replace the ignition system. Instead, most experts would recommend that you call a locksmith to have a new key made or call a tow truck to move the car out of the way.
Note that replacing the ignition system is a task best left to professionals. But if you have some mechanical knowledge, here’s what to do:
  • Remove the panels below the steering wheel. They are typically snapped in and/or screwed in.
  • Locate the lock release tab on the ignition system. Refer to your owner’s manual for detailed information.
  • Press and turn the release tab until the ignition system comes out. You may also have to remove a few additional screws.
  • Install the new ignition system, which usually costs about $50 to $60.
  • Replace the panels, and use the new key to unlock the steering wheel.
Doing all of this may take you anywhere from two to six hours, depending on your level of expertise. That’s why you may want to opt for one of the workarounds mentioned earlier.
And if you don’t have roadside assistance or
towing and labor coverage
on your son’s insurance policy, consider adding it today. It could come in handy in times like this.
With the
Jerry
app, you always get the best rate possible—even if it means switching your insurance provider. Jerry is a licensed insurance broker that provides quotes from dozens of top-rated and well-known car insurance companies. After you find a great rate for a Honda, Jerry can help you buy insurance and cancel your old policy. Customers save an average of nearly $900 per year!
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings