My 10 year old Accord suddenly refused to allow my Key to work in the ignition. I had to get it towed to a Dealer for a new ignition switch which cost over $700.


Has anybody had this problem. I have had many cars for over 30 years and never heard of such a problem.

 

Anybody heard of an Accord ignition switch that would not allow the key in and was unstartable?

 

Welcome to HAF.

Hard call without the background...was the green "key light" on the dash flashing and if so how? I've seen where some of the older one (6th and 7th gens) seem to loose the code between the key and PCM.....some have been able to enter the e-brake code and re-link everything.

 

No light was on so I couldn't move the car. Is this a defect Honda is hiding?

 

The Immobilizer system (e.g, green key light, etc.) would not cause it where the key cannot be inserted into the ignition.

It sounds like it was an issue with the ignition switch/key cylinder. What exact model year is your car?

 

It is a 2005 Accord.

 

There were no recalls or service bulletins for 2005 Accords regarding the ignition switch.

Only 2003 Accords had a recall regarding the Ignition Switch Key Interlock; where the interlock lever of the ignition switch may unexpectedly deform. Interlock failure may allow the ignition key to be removed when the shift lever is not in Park. -- This is not the same issue as what you experienced. Later production Accords not included in the recall had a revised ignition switch/key cylinder assembly.

The issue you experienced sounds like a mechanical problem with the ignition switch lock cylinder. Not any common defect.

 

Thanks