Smart keys are a great convenience, but they can also be a source of frustration. If you’ve ever had your smart key fail to work, you know how frustrating it can be. One common issue with smart keys is the warning light. When this light comes on, you may not have an idea of what’s wrong.
If the Honda smart key system warning light comes on, it means that your car is having trouble communicating with the keyfob. You can troubleshoot the problem by changing the keyfob battery, looking for electronic interference, or checking the immobilizer unit. If you’re still having trouble with the system, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic so they can diagnose and fix the problem.
How The Honday Key System Works
When you approach your Honda with the key fob in your pocket, the car automatically unlocks the doors and allows you to get in. Once you’re in, all you have to do is push the start button, and the engine will start without any effort on your part. The system uses sensors to detect the presence of the key fob, and it also uses sensors to determine whether the key fob is in your pocket or not.
The sensors can also tell if someone is trying to break into your car, and the alarm will sound if they are.
The system is designed to be convenient, but it’s also designed to be safe. If the key fob is ever lost or stolen, you can rest assured that your car will not be able to be started without the key. The same goes for if someone tries to break into your car.
What Does The Smart Entry System Indicator Light Mean?
One of the great features of the Honda smart key system is the warning light. This light comes on when there is a problem with the system. It’s usually a red or orange color, and it’s located on the instrument panel.
When this light comes on, it’s a warning that your car is not communicating properly with the Honda key fob. This might be due to you using an incorrect key fob, issues with the immobilizer unit, or other sorts of electronic interference in the automobile that’s making it difficult for the car to detect the keyfob.
Related content: What Does Check Fuel Cap Mean On Your Honda?
What To Do When The Smart Key System Warning Light Comes On
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue.
1. Check the Battery on Your Keyfob
One of the most common reasons why the warning light comes on is because the battery in your key fob is running low. If you think this might be the case, try replacing the battery in your key fob.
You can usually find the type of battery you need by looking in your owner’s manual or by doing a quick Google search.
2. Faulty Ignition Start Stop Switch
Another common reason for the warning light to come on is because of a faulty ignition start-stop switch. This switch is located under the steering column, and it’s responsible for sending a signal to the car that the key is in the ignition.
In case this switch is damaged or not working properly, it can prevent the car from detecting the key fob.
To fix this, you’ll need to take your car to a mechanic so they can replace the switch.
Alternatively, you can fix this on your own by prying off the trim around the start-stop switch, then spray an electrical cleaner on the connection and replace it.
3. Check for Electronic Interference
Sometimes, the warning light comes on because of electronic interference. This can be caused by things like cell phones, garage door openers, or even other keys with keyless entry.
When you think this might be the case, try to remove anything that might be causing the interference and see if that fixes the problem. In case you’re still having trouble with the warning light, the best thing to do is to take your car to a mechanic so they can diagnose the problem.
4. Check the Immobilizer Unit
The immobilizer unit is responsible for keeping your car from being stolen. It does this by preventing the engine from starting without the key fob present.
When this unit is damaged, it can cause the warning light to come on. To fix this, you’ll need to take your car to a mechanic so they can replace the unit.
These are just a few of the most common reasons why the Honda smart key system warning light might come on. If you’re having trouble with the system, be sure to check these things first. By doing so, you might be able to fix the problem without having to take your car to a mechanic.
Related content: Why Is the Drive Light Blinking on My Honda Pilot?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my car if the smart key system warning light is on?
In most cases, if the light comes on when the car engine is already running, yes. However, if the problem is with the immobilizer unit, it’s best to have your car towed to a mechanic so they can fix it.
How much does it cost to fix the smart key system?
It depends on the problem. If it’s something as simple as a low battery, it won’t cost anything to fix. However, if the problem is with the immobilizer unit, it can be quite expensive. The best thing to do is to take your car to a mechanic so they can diagnose the problem and give you an estimate.
My car is having trouble starting, should I take it to a mechanic?
When your car is having trouble starting and the smart key system warning light is on, then yes, you should take it to a mechanic. This is especially true if the problem is with the immobilizer unit.
Related content: What does Emissions System Problem mean on a Honda Pilot?
Conclusion
When the key not in vehicle warning light comes on, it can be alarming, but it’s usually not a cause for concern. You can troubleshoot the problem yourself by checking the battery on your key fob, looking for electronic interference, or checking the immobilizer unit. However, if you’re still having trouble with the system, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic.
Sometimes the light is accompanied by other symptoms, such as your car having trouble starting. In such cases, don’t try solving it on your own if you are not a mechanic—it’s best to take it to a mechanic so they can diagnose the problem.
Brian is an auto technician who writes DIY repair articles and creates how-to videos for MechanicAsk. He focuses on common repairs like brakes, oil changes, and lighting. Brian draws on his 5 years of dealership experience to explain repairs in an easy-to-follow manner, even for novice do-it-yourselfers. His technical articles always include detailed tool lists, supply checklists, and visual guides.
