Why wont my Honda Pilot start with the push button?
Push-button start systems are a convenient feature in modern vehicles like the Honda Pilot, but when they fail to work, it can be frustrating and confusing. In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons why your Honda Pilot might not start with the push button and provide actionable steps to help you troubleshoot the issue.
Common Reasons Your Honda Pilot Won’t Start
There are several potential causes for a push-button start failure. Understanding these can help you identify the problem and take the necessary steps to resolve it.
- Dead Key Fob Battery: The push-button start system relies on the key fob to communicate with the car. If the key fob battery is dead, the car won’t recognize it.
- Weak or Dead Car Battery: A weak or completely dead car battery can prevent the vehicle from starting, as it powers the entire electrical system.
- Faulty Brake Pedal Sensor: The push-button start system requires you to press the brake pedal before starting. If the brake pedal sensor is malfunctioning, the car may not detect that the brake is engaged.
- Issues with the Starter or Ignition System: Problems with the starter motor or ignition system can also prevent the engine from turning over.
- Key Fob Not Detected: If the key fob is too far from the vehicle or there’s interference, the car may not detect it.
- Software Glitches: Occasionally, electronic systems in modern cars can experience glitches that prevent the push-button start from functioning properly.
Steps to Troubleshoot the Problem
If your Honda Pilot won’t start with the push button, follow these steps to diagnose and potentially fix the issue:
- Check the Key Fob Battery: Replace the battery in your key fob if it’s dead. Most key fobs use a small coin-cell battery that can be easily replaced.
- Test the Car Battery: If you suspect the car battery is weak or dead, try jump-starting the vehicle. If it starts, the battery may need to be replaced or recharged.
- Press the Brake Pedal Firmly: Ensure you’re pressing the brake pedal firmly while attempting to start the car. If the brake lights don’t come on, the brake pedal sensor may need to be inspected.
- Hold the Key Fob Close to the Start Button: If the car isn’t detecting the key fob, hold it close to the push-button start and try again. This can help if there’s interference or a weak signal.
- Inspect for Warning Lights: Look for any warning lights on the dashboard that might indicate a specific issue, such as a problem with the starter or ignition system.
- Reset the System: Turn off the car completely, open and close the driver’s door, and try starting the car again. This can sometimes reset minor software glitches.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps above and your Honda Pilot still won’t start, it’s time to consult a professional mechanic. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing push-button start issues, along with a wide range of other automotive problems. Our experienced technicians can quickly identify the root cause and get you back on the road in no time.
Don’t let a push-button start issue ruin your day. Contact us at Kevin’s Autos for expert assistance!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of a bad push button ignition switch?
The ignition switch in older cars was used in conjunction with a key, but new cars now can come with push-button ignition. Other signals that your ignition switch is bad might include the engine stalling, electrical gremlins, the steering wheel won't unlock, and nothing happens when you try to start the car.
What can cause a Honda Pilot not to start?
Here are five possible reasons your Honda won't start.
- Battery Issues. The number one reason your Honda won't start is likely the battery.
- Bad Alternator. Your next culprit could be the alternator.
- Bad Starter. Your starter is the motor that actually starts your engine.
- Weak Key Fob Battery.
- Clogged Fuel Filter.
Why won't my Honda Pilot start when I press the push button?
Change your key fob batteries.
The first thing to try when you get this error message is switching out your batteries. You can find key fob batteries online that fit most standard key fobs, but check your owner's manual to make sure you're buying the right size. For a Honda Pilot, buy CR2032 batteries.
Why is my Honda push start not working?
This could be caused by a faulty switch or sensor in the push start button and/or the brake pedal, a starter failure, or a defect in the chip installed in the key, it could also be not pressing on the brake pedal before pushing start.
Why does my car not start when I push the button?
Your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal when pressing the START button. Ensure you are pressing firmly on the brake pedal when attempting to start the vehicle. The Smart Key battery is weak. Hold the Smart Key next to the START button and depress.
Why is my Honda keyless start not working?
This problem is most likely caused by low battery, in the vehicle or in the fob. First, try getting the fob to push against the start button. So they need to physically touch, and push the button using the key fob. Of course while pressing on the brakes.
Why is my keyless entry car not starting?
So if your car won't start? First, check that you actually have your key fob on you. If you do and your car still won't start, check to make sure the fob is working properly. Try testing the buttons on your fob to see if its other remote features, like locking or unlocking the doors, still work.
Can you manually start a push button start car?
And in doing. So the vehicle will then start at that point you can get to your closest. Dealer get the battery. Replaced. Um that's something that we do here for our customers.
How do I know if my push button starter is bad?
Your Vehicle Refuses To Start
You push the start button or turn the key, and your engine refuses to crank. You could hear a clanking or clicking noise each time you turn the key, or you could hear nothing at all. If this happens, you most likely have a problem with the key part of your starter system.
Why is my keyless start not working?
A dead battery, faulty starter, and an activated valet mode are some of the reasons why your remote start isn't working. Aside from electrical issues, coolant and oil pressure problems can also affect the remote start's operation. It costs between $250 and $400 to replace a damaged remote start fob.
