Experiencing problems with your 2017 Honda Pilot key fob after a battery replacement? It’s a common frustration when you expect a simple battery swap to solve the ‘key fob low battery’ warning, only to find your fob malfunctioning. Let’s explore why your Honda Pilot key fob might not be working after a battery change and what steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue.
One of the first signs that something is amiss is when the key fob’s red light fails to illuminate upon pressing any button. This is often an indicator of a power issue, but if you’ve just installed a new CR2032 battery, what could be wrong? You might find that even though the fob doesn’t remotely lock or unlock the doors or open the trunk, it can still start the vehicle when pressed directly against the start button. This peculiar behavior suggests the fob isn’t entirely dead but isn’t communicating correctly for remote functions.
Here are a few potential reasons and troubleshooting steps to consider when your 2017 Honda Pilot key fob is not working after a battery replacement:
- Battery Polarity and Type: Double-check that the CR2032 battery is installed with the correct polarity (+ side up) and that you’ve used the correct battery type. Even if it seems straightforward, incorrect installation is a frequent oversight.
- New Battery Issue: It’s possible, though less common, to get a faulty new battery. Try a different new CR2032 battery to rule out a defective power source.
- Battery Terminal Contact: Examine the metal contacts inside the key fob battery compartment. Ensure they are clean and making good contact with the battery. Corrosion or debris can prevent proper power flow. Gently clean the contacts if necessary.
- Key Fob Unpairing (Less Likely): While it’s less likely after just a battery change, there’s a slight chance the fob’s programming could be disrupted. However, the fact that the start button still works via direct contact suggests the fob is still recognized by the vehicle to some extent.
- Internal Key Fob Damage: If none of the above steps work, there might be an internal issue within the key fob itself. Components inside the fob can sometimes be delicate, and static electricity or minor mishandling during battery replacement could potentially cause damage.
If you’ve exhausted these troubleshooting steps and your 2017 Honda Pilot key fob remains unresponsive, especially if the red light is still not illuminating, it may indicate a more serious issue with the key fob. In such cases, contacting your local Honda dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith is advisable. They can diagnose whether the key fob needs reprogramming or replacement, and they can also check if your HondaCare contract might cover any part of the repair or replacement cost. Remember to have your vehicle information and key fob details ready when you reach out for assistance.
