Start a Honda or Acura with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Honda or Acura with a Dead Key Fob

This page holds all of the emergency start or back-up start procedures needed for Honda or Acura vehicles if the battery in the key fob dies or if there are electrical signals interfering with the fob.

• But first, if you are still locked out, click here for help getting inside!
• Second, for video help, click here!
• Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Most Honda and Acura models

To start a Honda and the newest Acura models lacking a slot, touch the “H” in the Honda logo or the “A” in the Acura logo on the remote control to the Start/Stop button until the small indicator light in the button begins to flash. For the next 30 seconds, the vehicle can be started using the Start / Stop button normally.

You can also simply press the Start/Stop button with the remote control itself, while stepping on the brake of course.

Note that the Honda Insight and Clarity have a Power button instead of a Start/Stop, but the process is exactly the same.

2024 start change

Note: There is slight change added to the process in 2024 with both Honda and Acura models. The manuals state to press the Start/Stop button first! Then, a beep will be heard and the Start/Stop button will flash for about 30 seconds. Then touch the button with the back of the fob and start the vehicle as normal.

We have not tested a model newer than 2023 to verify that this is truly necessary.

Acura ZDX, Honda Prologue

The Acura ZDX EV and Honda Prologue EV marks a rather large shift in engineering. The back up start process uses a cup holder. Place the key fob in the rear cupholder in the Acura or the left cupholder in the Honda with the buttons facing down (right).

Then with the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start/Stop button, which like the Insight and Clarity is a Power button.

2009 to 2014 Acura models

In earlier Acura models (newest models are above), there is a slot for the remote control (key fob) to the left and below the Start / Stop button. Insert the remote and use the Start / Stop button to start the vehicle as normal.

Note that in these later models, there is a keyless access remote system main switch that may be turned off. The vehicle will start with the remote in its slot as described.

Pre-2009 Acura models

In the oldest keyless start Acura models, there is a cover on the ignition switch that must be removed. This will allow the use of the mechanical key built into the key fob. To remove the ignition switch cover, slip the built-in key into the parallel slot underneath the cover. Push the key in while pull it towards you at the same time and the cover will come off. Once the cover is removed, the mechanical key can be inserted and turned to start the vehicle.

Note: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

Finally, we do have some video help for you.

Models examined include CL, ILX, MDX, NSX, RDX, RL, RLX, TL, TLX, TSX, and ZDX and Honda Accord, Civic, Clarity, Crosstour, CR-V, Element, Fit, HR-V, Insight, Odyssey, Passport, Pilot, and Ridgeline. Model years 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

… Return to Part I, Getting In

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The information on this website is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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