How to start a Honda Accord?

On most current Honda Accords, starting the car is a quick, keyless process: sit in the driver's seat with the smart key nearby, press the brake, and press the Start/Stop button. If you’re dealing with older models that use a traditional ignition key, you turn the key to start. This guide covers both scenarios, plus remote-start options and common troubleshooting tips.

Push-Button Start: Modern Honda Accords

Before you begin, make sure the key fob is inside the vehicle, the transmission is in Park, and you’re wearing your seat belt. This section covers the typical procedure for newer Accords with a push-button Start/Stop.

1. Enter the car and ensure the key fob is inside the vehicle with everyone buckled up.


2. Place your foot on the brake pedal to engage the brake switch.


3. Press the Start/Stop button to start the engine. In most models you press the button once with your foot on the brake; some variants may require a brief hold.


4. Observe the instrument cluster to confirm the engine is running and that there are no warning lights. Hybrids usually display READY when the system is prepared to drive.


5. With the engine running, shift the transmission out of Park into Drive (D) or Reverse (R) as needed, then release the parking brake if it’s engaged.

In normal operation, the engine should start smoothly and you’ll be able to move shortly after. If the car doesn’t start, common causes include a dead key fob battery, a depleted vehicle battery, or a brake switch issue. If problems persist, seek professional assistance.

Troubleshooting Push-Button Start

If the start sequence fails, begin with quick checks: confirm the fob is inside, replace or recharge the key fob battery, ensure you are fully pressing the brake, and verify the car’s 12V battery is charged. If the issue continues, there may be an electrical fault requiring service.

Traditional Key Ignition: Older Honda Accords

Some older or more basic trims of the Accord use a conventional ignition key. Here are the steps for those models.

1. Approach the car, sit in the driver's seat, and fasten your seat belt.


2. Insert the key into the ignition cylinder and turn it to the ON position to power the electrical systems.


3. Turn the key further to the START position to crank the engine; release the key as soon as the engine starts, allowing it to return to the ON position.


4. Confirm the engine is running and the transmission is in Park (P) before shifting to Drive (D) or Reverse (R).

If the traditional ignition doesn’t respond, check that the key is fully inserted and that the key’s battery is not dead. If the car still won’t start, there could be a deeper electrical issue that warrants inspection by a technician.

Remote Start and Convenience Features

Many Honda Accords offer remote start via the key fob or the HondaLink app, allowing you to start the engine from outside the vehicle to pre-condition the cabin or powertrain. Safety rules typically apply: doors should be locked, and the engine will shut off if a door is opened or the brake is pressed during operation. Availability varies by model year and trim, so check your manual or dealer for specifics.

• Key fob remote start: Usually involves locking the car and initiating remote start through the fob, starting the engine for a limited period.


• HondaLink app remote start: Some models support starting the engine from a smartphone via the official app; follow in-app prompts to begin remote start.

If you use remote start, remember to depress the brake and shift into Drive after you enter the vehicle. Remote start is not available on all trims or in all markets, and there are security and safety considerations to review in your owner’s manual.

Summary

Starting a Honda Accord is straightforward on modern models: use the push-button Start with a functioning key fob, ensuring the car is in Park and the brake is pressed. Older Accords may require a traditional ignition key. Remote-start options add convenience but are model-year specific and require adherence to safety guidelines. If you encounter persistent starting problems, begin with battery checks (fob and vehicle), brake switch status, and general electrical health, and seek professional help if needed.

How to push to start a Honda Accord?

To drive, step on the brake pedal and push the ENGINE START button once. The instruments will illuminate, and you'll be ready to go.

Why won't my car start on my Honda Accord?

A Honda Accord that won't start is likely due to a dead battery, a bad starter or alternator, or issues with the ignition system, such as the ignition switch or starter relay. To diagnose the problem, check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery is charged, then listen for a click when trying to start—this can indicate a faulty starter or a problem with the starter relay or ignition switch. If the car cranks but doesn't start, it could be a fuel delivery issue or a problem with the engine's sensors. 
Common causes and solutions 
This video demonstrates how to check the starter relay and ignition switch on a Honda Accord: 45sColin ChilibeckYouTube · Apr 3, 2021

• Battery problems: A weak or dead battery is the most common cause. 
  • Check: Look for corroded or loose battery terminals. 
  • Solution: Clean the terminals, tighten the connections, or replace the battery if it's old. A jump-start might work, but if it doesn't, the battery may be bad. 
• Starter issues: The starter motor engages the engine to start it. 
  • Check: Listen for a clicking sound when you turn the key. A single click can mean the starter isn't getting enough power, while multiple clicks might mean it's failing. 
  • Solution: The starter itself might be bad, or a relay or main fuse could be preventing power from reaching it. 
• Alternator problems: The alternator charges the battery while the engine is running. 
  • Check: If the car starts after a jump but dies again shortly after, the alternator may be bad and unable to charge the battery. 
  • Solution: The alternator needs to be diagnosed and likely replaced. 
• Ignition switch: The ignition switch sends a signal to the starter. 
  • Check: If the car has no electrical response or the starter doesn't get the signal, the switch could be faulty. 
  • Solution: Test the ignition switch. If the car starts in neutral (for an automatic), this could be the problem, especially if the issue is intermittent. 
• Fuel system problems: The engine needs fuel to start. 
  • Check: Listen for a humming sound from the fuel pump when you turn the key to the "on" position. 
  • Solution: If there's no humming, the fuel pump may be faulty, or there could be a clog in the fuel filter. 
• Security system/Immobilizer: The car's security system may prevent it from starting. 
  • Check: A flashing green key symbol on the dashboard can indicate an immobilizer issue, often due to a weak key fob battery or a problem with the key itself. 
  • Solution: For a keyless entry model, try holding the key fob directly against the start button. 

Next steps
You can watch this video to learn how to start a Honda with a dead key fob battery: 25sKendall HondaYouTube · Mar 21, 2024

1. Check the simple things first: Confirm the battery terminals are clean and tight. 
2. Listen for clicks: Turn the key to the "start" position. A click can point to the starter, relay, or ignition switch. 
3. Use an OBD-II scanner: If the car cranks but won't start, scan for trouble codes to identify any sensor issues. 
4. Consider professional help: If you can't diagnose the problem yourself, it's best to have a mechanic inspect the car, especially if it involves complex electrical components. 

How to start a Honda Accord with a key?

To start a Honda Accord with a key, press the LOCK button on the fob, then press and hold the REMOTE-START button to start the engine from a distance. If the fob's battery is dead, press your foot on the brake pedal, hold the fob directly against the START/STOP button, and then press the button to start the car.
 
Remote start (if equipped)

1. Press the LOCK button on the key fob. 
2. Within five seconds, press and hold the REMOTE-START button (often a circular arrow) for at least one second. 
3. The vehicle lights will flash to confirm the engine has started. 
4. To extend the run time, repeat the process while the engine is running. 
5. To drive, press the brake pedal and then press the START/STOP button once. 

With a dead fob battery

1. Get into the car with the dead fob. You can use the physical key hidden inside the fob to unlock the door if needed. 
2. Press your foot down on the brake pedal. 
3. Hold the fob against the START/STOP button, which is likely flashing white. 
4. Press the START/STOP button to start the engine. A soft beep will indicate the car has recognized the fob. 

This video demonstrates how to start a Honda Accord with a dead key fob: 57sPYR Automotive YouTube · Jan 11, 2022

How to start Honda using keys?

System. Step one go into your vehicle settings. And make sure to turn on your remote start system. Now it should be good. So you're going to press your lock button here.