I have seen several threads with this problem but no solutions posted. sometimes car works as it was designed when key removed but when car decides I left the key in it prevents the fob from working trunk or door locks. sometimes I can repeat a start and shut down cycle and remove the key and it knows I removed the key and all works as it should. next time car will think the key is left in. Is this a programming problem or a component problem? It is a 2009 model. I promise to post the answer when found. LOL

 

Are you referring to the little green key light on the cluster? That, I believe, is for the immobilizer. If it is an immobilizer problem then you will have to have the immobilizer reset to your key by the dealer. Hope this helps.

 

That is the light but it goes out when i put the key in and the car starts and runs as normal. the problem is only when the key is out.

 

I had the same thing happen to my 2006. There must be a switch inside the lock tumbler that detects that the key is in the ignition. When it would stick in the "key is in the ignition" state I could partially insert the key, wiggle it around (gently) and it would clear the problem. I sprayed the key with a little WD40 to lube the lock. Hasn't happened again in a year.

 

I'm pretty sure you have a mechanical problem with the cylinder.

Is the car beeping with the key out and the door open?

 

Yes. key indicator flashes when door shut but when you open door the indicator goes out and it starts beeping
It almost like you left the lights on and it is warning you. (not the case though)

Although the locksmith I know hates WD40 in lock tumblers I decided it was worth a try. A couple sprays and several key insertions both sides up and beeping is gone and recognizes the key being removed. That lasted one day.

At least I know where the problem lies. I will try to find some lock graphite and try again.
I have never really bent over to look into the key cylinder hole before but the hole is always open and I was kinda thinking there was a little sliding cover like the door locks. maybe the lock mechanism is beat.

 

My ignition lock doesn't have a cover. Typically they don't since they aren't exposed like the door locks. Hopefully the graphite will do the trick. If not you're 2009 is still under warranty, right?

 

good to know, I have not looked into getting warranty in canada on a usa car/ may have to drive it back to the usa/ also if the tumbler needs replacing,it would mean all new locks in trunk etc to keep one key to do all? hoping it does not come to that. hoping proper lock lube will fix the problem as this would be the most simple

 

My CR finally was delivered last night and I noticed this same situation. Gonna stop at the local honda dealer and have them check it out. I feel a little better now having run across this thread

 

My '08 does the same thing. just stick the key tip back in until it becomes unstuck.