| Author | Message | ||
     Damnut |
I'm having a problem with my wife's car and I think I have narrowed it down to the ignition switch. The problem: Every once in a while the car wouldn't start, then I would go back some time later and it would fire right up. It always started after a short period of time. It has done this probably about 5-10 times for about a year or two but it always started after waiting a little while. Well about 2 weeks ago it wouldn't start at all and that is still the case. Well I did some research and found that this is a typical Main Relay issue. I removed the relay and it smelled burnt so I replaced it. Well it still doesn't start. I have a code reader and it doesn't show any error codes. The real time data shows the fuel system is fine. Now when I get in the car and turn the key to the ON position the Key light (security) doesn't stop blinking. I believe this means that the vehicle doesn't recognize the transponder in the key. I have tried all 3 keys and the Key Light just keeps blinking with all of them. I have charged the battery to eliminate a low battery condition. Does this sound like an Immobilizer problem? If so then will a new one work with the keys that I have or will I need to get a new set of keys as well? Can I just remove/bypass the stupid thing? Thanks in advance!! Jim | ||
| Damnut |
Anyone?  | ||
| Jstfrfun |
Ignition module or pick-up coil | ||
| Teeps |
what year and model is your car? | ||
| Rah7777777 |
Sounds like a newer car (hence the immobilizer chip) And it sounds like you are spot on, assuming all the connections are good to the ignition switch. Odds are you will have to get the ignition switch and a "learn Key" BUT, you will most likely need the Honda tech computer to program the ignition switch. Now, I might be wrong on the process for your car. but when I worked for benz, that was pretty much how the newer cars went. Then once you install the ignition switch, you use the "learn" key to basically unlock the switch to accept a key and learn the vehicle so I can't be used in another vehicle. I hate to say it, but if your car is like what im used to seeing, its almost a dealer only job.....which sucks since they will charge a boat load! | ||
| Drhacknstine |
Ok, I'm new to the Honda market... but here is what I do know . If you have a steady flashing key light. YES, you have a Immobilizer problem. There should have been a "Red key" for learning when your car was new. But YOU, can't teach the car much of anything without a factory scan-tool, a couple of pass codes...ETC. But, if you have a non transponder key and call your Honda dealer, They can give you a code you enter through annoying brake and key operation. It will then start to get it to them! | ||
| Damnut |
It would of been nice to say what kind of car it is, duh. 2000 Honda Accord with about 130XXX on the clock. So assuming I am right about the ignition not reading the keys, could I just buy something like this to fix my problem? http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ewItem&item=350268676502&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT I figured I'm trucking down the correct road but wanted to check with others before buying parts. I'm new to all this technology on cars nowadays. Hence the reason I still drive my old Jeep, I can still fix about anything on that thing right on the side of the road | ||
| Drhacknstine |
Uhhh,  IF I understand how the Immobilizer works, you will still have a dead Honda, until you take it to a dealer to have the problem resolved. Only the dealer can program the ECM to recognize the new(old, or any key for that matter) Transponder key and get the Immobilizer to "Bless the Union" so to speak. I do most of my research on on Honda problems at Hondahookup.com | ||
| Damnut |
Isn't the ECM just looking for a signal from the Immobilizer? The way that I thought it worked was the Transponder in the key is kinda like a matched pair with the Immobilizer and the ECM just looks for a certain signal from the Immobilizer. Dunno.  That's why I'm asking. I figured if the Immobilizer is dead I can just get a used one with a matched key and be on my way. Thanks for the site, I'll check it out. | ||
| Drhacknstine |
Honda has guarded how it works( no doubt why). But from what I have gathered, NO Honda Immobilizer keys have a three digit random code, that is paired(taught) to the ECM by a process involving the Honda scan tool. The switch / immobilizer is simply a reader/messenger to the ECM. But I ran on to this a while back. And put it in my (good knowledge to have) book marks http://www.howtomendit.com/answers.php?id=154711 Last post. Haven't done it. My Honda is to old to have the Immobilizer(thank GOD). That failing the new switch is worth a shot. Then again it may be as simple as the dealer "repairing/programing" your existing Key/Switch and ECM combo. Good Luck what ever you decide to do. Stuff like this why every vehicle in my drive is an antique... If it weren't for ECM spy I wouldn't own a 99 S3T. Dealer?? We don't need no stinking dealer! (Message edited by DrHacknstine on December 12, 2009) | ||
| Teeps |
Your car has Type II imobilizer. A learn key is not needed. But as other have said; only a Honda dealer can program a new key. However a locksmith with a key duplicator can clone a working key. pm me with email address that will accept attachment and I'll send you some troubleshooting. | ||
| Damnut |
Teeps PM sent, thanks! I'm thinking that the problem is with the Immobilizer itself and not with the transponder in the key because I have 3 keys for it and the Immobilizer doesn't seem to recognize any of them. That's why I'm asking if anyone knows if the signal from the Immobilizer to the ECM is just a simple voltage or a specific signal. If it's just a simple voltage then I should be able to buy the ignition/key part that I listed from Ebay to fix it, No? I really would like to avoid the dealership if possible. Thanks all for your input! | ||
| Teeps |
The imobi signal is serial data. Honda does not offer a data reader for specific control unit input/outputs, so troubleshooting is limited to: checking the wires between the imobi unit and pcm, for continuity end to end, short to ground or power. The pcm controls the imobi indicator. Since it is blinking the pcm is not likely the problem. You have email with more specific info and wiring diagram. | ||
| Damnut |
Thanks Teeps!! Some GREAT information you sent!! | ||
| Andyss1w |
damnut, ive been doing the honda swap thing for over 10 years. i do not know what you are going through, but any time i have a question, i log onto honda-tech.com . |
