Honda Accord Ignition Switch Problems: 200,000+ Recalled

Hey there! This post contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. But it never influences our product selection process.

Honda recalled over 200,000 Accords after ignition switches developed a faulty interlock mechanism, most commonly on 2003-2004 and later 2006 and 2015 model years. A worn switch can cause buzzing, hard starts requiring multiple key turns, or intermittent loss of power to accessories. This guide covers the real causes, the recall fix, and how to replace or bypass the switch yourself.

Symptoms of Honda Accord Ignition Switch Problems:

1. Facing difficulties while starting the engine
2. Stalling the engine
3. Unwanted power loss
4. Warning lights
5. The key not turning toward ignition

Honda Accord Ignition Switch Problems and Solutions 

First and foremost, a driver must be familiar with the symptoms and reasons for a faulty ignition switch. Additionally, the parameters might vary depending on the year model of the Accords.

For example, the 2014 Honda Accord ignition switch problems might not be the same as the 2015 Honda Accord ignition switch problems. Similarly, the brand type such as Polaris Ranger and Chevy Silverado might also encounter different ignition switch problems accordingly.

But my job is to provide you with the simplest solutions to your problems. Hence, I’ve narrowed down some of the common symptoms and reasons for a generalized idea. 

Problem 1: Wear and Tear

Over time, the electrical contacts inside the ignition switch can wear out due to frequent use. This can lead to a loss of electrical connection and result in start or stalling issues.

Solution 1:

One efficient practice will be to check the condition of the wiring on a regular basis and replace it if necessary. 

Problem 2: Faulty Manufacturing

This might be an unlucky case but there can be a possibility of manufacturing defects in the ignition switch. 

Solution 2:

After confirming that your specific ignition switch has a manufacturing defect, replace it with a new one and make sure to double-check the equipment before the purchase. 

Problem 3: Faulty Installation

If you fail to install the ignition switch improperly, the electrical connections might get short and damage the internal circuit.

Solution 3:

Open the ignition switch and try to reattach it with proper care. After completing the installation, check whether it is working or not.

Problem 4: Exposure to Moisture

If the ignition switch gets exposed to moisture or other contaminants, it can cause the internal electrical contacts to corrode or short-circuit. This will certainly lead to start or stalling problems with the engine.

Solution 4:

During the maintenance period, clean the ignition switch and check whether the connections are intact or not.

Problem 6: Overloading

If the ignition switch is used to power too many electrical components, it will overheat the switch which might damage the internal components of the switch. 

Solution 6:

Check the threshold voltage of the ignition switch and make sure not to put too much pressure on it. If such mistakes are made, remove the switch to let it cool down. 

Problem 7: Tampering or Damage

If the ignition switch is tampered with or damaged in any way, this will eventually decrease the lifespan of the ignition switch.

Solution 7:

Precaution will be not to exert mechanical pressure on the ignition switch. In case the switch breaks, you’ll eventually have to replace it with a new one.

Honda Accord Ignition Switch Replacement

Replacing the Honda Accord ignition switch is a very complex task for car owners, and we’ll suggest seeking help from a professional.

Still, if some insist on completing the task on their own, here is a detailed step-by-step procedure you can follow:

1. Unhook the battery: Firstly, you need to disconnect the battery source from the ignition switch to prevent any kind of accident such as electric shocks.
2. Open the covers of the steering wheel: Now, carefully open the covers of the steering wheel to discover the wiring harness of the ignition switch.
3. Disconnect all the wirings: Carefully disconnect all the wirings from the ignition switch to the vehicle’s main electrical system.
4. Remove the ignition switch: After disconnecting all the wires, remove the ignition switch from the hook.
5. Install the new ignition switch: Clean the hook and attach the newly purchased ignition switch.
6. Attach the wirings: Now, connect your new ignition switch to the electrical system of the vehicle.
7. Reattach the covers of the steering wheel: Connect the battery and give it a kick start. If the switch is working properly, then close the covers of the steering wheel and you’re done! If the switch is still not working, check for any loose connections.

Honda Accord Ignition Switch Replacement Cost:

Related to different models of Honda Accord such as 2000, 2004, 2005, 2006, and many more, the replacement cost might vary. But the overall range of the replacement cost lies between $151 to $190, with labor costs of $77 to $97 and the ignition switch cost of $20 to $90.

Depending on your location, the labor cost will also vary. But it’s up to you how well you can bargain with the mechanic for a cheap repair.

Now that you know the total replacement cost, here are some models of the ignition switch that you can look for to replace your old one:

Best Accord Ignition Switch Pick

Ignition Starter Switch (2003-2007) – $14.49

Direct fit for the 2003-2007 Accord this guide’s recall section covers, plus CR-V and Civic if your household has more than one affected Honda.

• Best for: the exact recall-era 2003-2007 Accord model years
• Why we picked it: cheapest of the group and covers multiple Honda models
• Main drawback: aftermarket, not the OEM part Honda dealers install

View Our Pick on Amazon

Compare more ignition switch options

Option 1 Beck/Arnley 201-1810 – $28.08 Best for: buyers who want a more established OE-quality supplier Why we picked it: longer track record than the budget no-name options Main drawback: nearly double the price of the hero pick Check on Amazon

Option 2 labwork Switch – $10.50 Best for: the absolute lowest price in this group Why we picked it: same OEM part number match (35130SAAJ51) at a lower cost Main drawback: budget brand, less of a track record Check on Amazon

Option 3 Hoypeyfiy (2013-2017) – $17.99 Best for: newer 2013-2017 Accord owners — the other picks fit older models Why we picked it: only option here for the later generation Main drawback: wrong fit if you drive the 2003-2007 recall-era car Check on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Honda Accord Ignition Switch Recall

For such a common problem in the ignition switches, Honda company issued a recall in 2003 and 2004 on the Accord models. The recall was issued for the better cause as the faulty ignition switch can cause the key to be removed from the ignition switch when it was not in the “off” position.

This will eventually lead the vehicle to roll away and increase the risk of a crash. In addition, the defect will also take part in the malfunction of the electrical system, thus causing the engine to stall or prevent the airbags from deploying in the event of a crash.

Honda company made sure that certain models such as the 2006 Honda Accord ignition switch recall will get free service replacing the faulty equipment.

For this recall, over 200,000 2003 – 2004 Honda Accord vehicles were affected for many years. Even though some recent models like the 2015 Honda Accord ignition switch recall might have similar issues.

Bypass Ignition Switch Honda Accord

Firstly, what does bypassing the ignition switch mean? Consider yourself in the middle of the road and suddenly your engine stopped because of the faulty ignition switch.

In that particular situation, you need to hotwire your car and get to the nearest repair store or a gas station. Therefore, bypassing your ignition switch will get your engine running immediately.

For an efficient bypass, you need to have a push button ready for the task (make sure to keep one inside your car for such emergencies). The figure below shows a push button with two wires.

Connect these two wires of the push button with the ignition switch (as shown in the figure below). Make sure that the connections are firm. After that, insert the key and tap the push button to start the car.

Hence, bypassing the Honda Accord ignition switch is complete. For more understanding, here’s a link to a YouTube video you can follow:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Conclusion

So, to wrap up, ignition switch problems are common in Honda Accords and can cause various issues, from preventing the car from starting to stall while driving. If you experience any problems with your Honda Accord’s ignition switch, it is important to address them promptly to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road.

Regular maintenance and check-ups by a certified Honda mechanic can help prevent these issues and catch them early. If you suspect that there is an issue with your car’s ignition switch, it is best to seek professional help for diagnosis and repair. Or you can carry out the task all by yourself. Your choice!