Key fob — battery replacement
1. Replace the battery when the key fob transmitter doesn’t operate the locks at a distance of 10 feet. Normal range should be about 30 feet.
Note: Before replacing the key fob battery, insert the key into the ignition and start the vehicle. If the vehicle starts with the key, but the door locks are not working with the key fob, replace the battery in the key fob.
Note: If the immobilizer code is not recognized, the security light will flash once then blink until the key is turned back to the lock position. The immobilizer light will then flash 10 tens and go out. (This indicates the security system is back to the ready sequence awaiting the correct immobilizer code). If, after several attempts the immobilizer is not recognized it will need to be reprogrammed or replaced using the factory scan tool. Take the vehicle to a dealer service department or a qualified repair facility with a factory scanner and have it reprogrammed. Note: If the door locks do not work from the remote or the door lock switch, diagnose the door lock system first.
2. Remove the screw, pry the key fob apart at the seam and carefully separate the case halves (see illustrations).
i.2a Remove the screw …
i.2b … and pry the case halves apart at the slot
Note: Check for any water or moisture damage first. If any, discard the remote and replace it. The replacement key fob will need to be programmed.
3. Remove the battery, noting which way it is facing before you remove it, then install the new one (see illustration). The replacement battery number is CR2032.
i.3 Note which way the battery faces, then pry it out and install a new one
4. Snap the case halves together and install the screw.
5. Press the lock or unlock button and check its operation. If the doors lock or unlock the transmitter is programmed and set. If the doors do not lock or unlock, the immobilizer and transmitter must be reprogrammed using a factory scan tool. Take the vehicle to a dealer service department or other qualified repair facility and have it reprogrammed.
Caution: Only use Honda authorized immobilizer key fobs for replacement.
Key fob strength testing
6. If for some reason your key fob fails to operate even after you’ve tried a replacement battery, take your key fob to a repair shop that has a tire monitor reset tool. Most of these tools have an RF strength indicator test as part of their diagnostics features. The technician can check whether or not your key fob is in working order or not. If there is no RF signal, the key fob is more than likely faulty. If the signal is weak, chances are the battery needs to be replaced.