How do you reset the anti theft system on a Honda Accord?

If your Honda Accord's anti-theft system is activated, you'll need to reset it to regain full functionality of your vehicle. This process is relatively straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to reset the anti-theft system on your Honda Accord.

Steps to Reset the Anti-Theft System on a Honda Accord

1. Ensure the key is in the ignition and the engine is turned off.


2. Press and hold the unlock button on your key fob for about 3 seconds. This will disarm the anti-theft system.


3. Turn the ignition to the "On" position, but do not start the engine.


4. Wait for the anti-theft system indicator light on the dashboard to turn off, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes.


5. Once the indicator light is off, the anti-theft system has been successfully reset.

If the anti-theft system indicator light remains on or the system does not reset, you may need to consult your Honda Accord's owner's manual or contact a Honda dealership for further assistance.

Reasons Why the Anti-Theft System May Activate

• Incorrect key used: If you use a key that is not programmed to your Honda Accord, the anti-theft system will activate as a security measure.


• Low battery in the key fob: A low battery in your key fob can cause the anti-theft system to activate, preventing the car from starting.


• Electrical system issues: Problems with the electrical system, such as a faulty alternator or battery, can trigger the anti-theft system.


• Attempted theft: If someone tries to break into or steal your Honda Accord, the anti-theft system will activate as a security measure.

By understanding the common reasons why the anti-theft system may activate, you can better prepare for and address any issues that may arise with your Honda Accord's security system.

How do you reset the anti-theft system on a 2002 Honda Accord?

To reset the anti-theft system on a 2002 Honda Accord, try the "ignition wait" method: turn the key to the "ON" position and wait about 30 seconds for the security light to stop blinking, then try to start the car. If that doesn't work, you can also try a key-cycling method, or a temporary alarm shutdown by removing the horn relay fuse and re-connecting the battery, before trying the door lock reset sequence.
 
This video demonstrates how to reset the anti-theft system on a Honda Accord: 58sMotor MatchupsYouTube · Jun 30, 2025
Ignition wait method

1. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the "ON" position (II), but do not start the engine. 
2. Wait until the security light on the dashboard stops blinking and turns off, which should take about 30 seconds. 
3. Turn the key off, then start the car as usual. 

Key cycling method

1. Insert the key into the driver's side door lock.
2. Turn the key to the unlock position.
3. Turn the key to the lock position.
4. Turn the key back to the unlock position.
5. Start the engine and let the car run for at least 10 minutes. 

Temporary alarm shutdown 

1. Disconnect the battery.
2. Locate and remove the horn relay fuse from the under-hood fuse box.
3. Connect the battery.
4. Use the key to cycle the doors (unlock/lock/unlock).
5. The system should be reset, and you can replace the horn relay fuse. 

You can also watch this video to learn how to deactivate the Honda immobilizer: 56sVehicle FreakYouTube · Oct 31, 2022
Radio anti-theft reset

• If only the radio is locked, look for the code on a sticker inside the glove box or the owner's manual.
• Enter the code using the radio preset buttons.
• If the code is not available, a dealer can retrieve it with your VIN and the radio's serial number. 

This video shows how to find and reset the radio anti-theft code on your Honda: 1mHow to AutomotiveYouTube · Dec 15, 2016

How to reboot a Honda Accord system?

To reset a Honda Accord, try a soft reboot by pressing and holding the infotainment system's power button for 10-15 seconds, or for a deeper reset, press and hold the steering wheel's talk and volume buttons for 10 seconds while the car is on. A factory reset, which erases all settings, is available in the Settings > System > Factory Data Reset menu. 
Soft reboot (for glitches)

• This method clears temporary memory issues without deleting personal data. 
• Press and hold the power button on the infotainment screen for 10 to 15 seconds until the screen turns off and restarts. 
• On some models, you can achieve a similar soft reboot by putting the car in "accessory" mode, accessing the fuse box, and removing/reinserting the audio fuse for about 15 seconds. 

Hard reboot (for stubborn problems)

• Turn the vehicle off, then press and hold the steering wheel's "talk" button and the volume "up" or "down" button simultaneously for about 10 seconds, and then start the vehicle.
• This forces a deeper reboot and can clear more persistent glitches. 

Factory reset (erases all data) 

• Use this as a last resort if other methods fail, as it will erase all personal settings and data. 
• Navigate to Settings > System > Factory Data Reset on the infotainment screen. 
• Confirm your choice when prompted. The system will reboot, which may take a few minutes. 

For other systems

• Maintenance Minder: Reset this after a service by going to Settings > Vehicle > Maintenance Info > Reset Items > All Due Items. 
• Trip Meter: Display the trip meter, then press and hold the right selector wheel on the driver information interface until the option to reset appears. 
• Engine Oil Life: Display the oil life percentage, then press and hold the Select/Reset button on the steering wheel for 10 seconds. 

How do I get my Honda Accord out of anti-theft mode?

To get a Honda Accord out of anti-theft mode, try these steps: use the physical key to lock and unlock the driver's door, insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the "ON" position for about 10 minutes, or try a sequence of pressing the key fob's lock and unlock buttons. If those fail, you can also disconnect the car's battery for 10-15 minutes to force a reset. 
Method 1: Use the physical key 

1. Insert the physical key into the driver's side door lock. 
2. Turn the key to unlock the door and hold it for 30 seconds. 
3. If the alarm is still on, try turning the key back and forth in the lock cylinder to see if that disarms it. 
4. Once disarmed, insert the key into the ignition and start the car. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the anti-theft system on a Honda Accord using the physical key: 56sVehicle FreakYouTube · Oct 31, 2022
Method 2: Use the key fob 

1. Press the "UNLOCK" button on your key fob five times.
2. Then, press the "LOCK" button once.
3. Wait a minute and try to start the car. 

Method 3: Use the ignition and wait 

1. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the "ON" position without starting the engine. 
2. Leave the key in this position for about 10 minutes until the security light on the dashboard goes off. 
3. Turn the key to the "OFF" position and then start the car. 

Method 4: Disconnect the battery 

1. Locate your car's battery under the hood.
2. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
3. Wait 10-15 minutes to allow the system to fully reset.
4. Reconnect the negative terminal.
5. Attempt to start the car. You may need to reset your radio presets or other settings afterward. 

You can watch this video for a demonstration of resetting the anti-theft system by disconnecting the battery: 57sMotor MatchupsYouTube · Jul 1, 2025
If all else fails

• Check the key fob battery: A weak key fob battery can cause issues, so try replacing it if possible. 
• Consult a professional: If these methods don't work, you may need a dealership or locksmith to diagnose the problem and reprogram the key. 

How do I get my car out of anti-theft mode?

To reset the anti-theft system on the vehicle, first, enter the vehicle and close the doors. With the doors closed, insert the key into the ignition slot and turn it on. After turning it on, switch it back to the off position.