Tried to turn the key last night and it was jammed until, after much, MUCH wiggling, it finally turned around. Same happened this morning, so my first guess is wear and tear in the barrel unless there is another thought (I tried my spare key, same problem).

If it is the barrel, do I need to get a brand new one or can I use one from a breaker and if so, does it have to be a MY00 or can it be other years too?

All help appreciated

 

Hi Marc,

If you are getting a new barrel (actually whole key switch), you could probably specify the same key number. I wouldn't like to guess how long that could take. If from a breaker, You would end up with a different key. This would then need re-programming on the ECU, but I guess you already had to do that. It appears that the imobiliser unit is separate to the key switch, so I wouldn't have thought there is any problem with different model years. I thought I might need to replace my ECU and there were breakers offering a complete set of all locks and keys.

I don't know if a specialist locksmith would be a ble to rebuild your existing lock. This would be worth trying.

 

My Dad needed one for an Accord years ago, cost £90. That was probably 15yrs ago though!

PS Don't ask me why I remember these things...

 

IIRC, there is a number on the key...give it to Honda and they might be able to sort you out with a new barrel.

FWIW, I've used WD40 inside motorcycle ignition barrels (which get alot of water ingress, owing to their position on the bike) with alot of success over the years. Put some in, then push the key in/out to free up the moving parts. Some lithium spray will helps to keep it free as well.

Sometimes my key gets stuck and won't turn in the S. The solution is to remove the key ever so lightly out of the barrel, then turn.

HTH

 

Thanks guys

Been thinking about WD40. Yesterday out of curiosity I though I'd wet my key, so stuck it in my mouth, put it in the ignition and now it works!

Bit of WD40 to come to be sure, but it's working normally so far