Replacing or reprogramming your 2005 Honda Pilot Key Fob can seem daunting, but with the right steps, it’s a manageable DIY task. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your 05 Honda Pilot key fob, from transferring the crucial immobilizer chip to programming the remote functions.
Understanding Your 05 Honda Pilot Key Fob: The Immobilizer Chip
The key to your 05 Honda Pilot isn’t just about the physical cut; it also contains an essential component: the immobilizer chip. This chip is a security feature that communicates with your vehicle’s computer, ensuring only the correct key can start the engine. When replacing your key fob shell, you’ll need to carefully transfer this chip from your old key to the new one.
Key Fob Replacement: Step-by-Step Guide
Replacing the shell of your 05 Honda Pilot key fob involves a few key steps. The electronic components for the door lock fob are relatively straightforward to move, but the immobilizer chip requires extra care.
Transferring the Immobilizer Chip
This is arguably the trickiest part. The immobilizer chip is small and can be easily damaged.
- Carefully open your old key fob. Gently pry apart the two halves of your original key fob. You might need a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic opening tool.
- Locate the immobilizer chip. It’s a small, usually black or dark-colored chip, separate from the larger circuit board. It might be glued or fitted snugly in a small compartment.
- Carefully remove the chip. Use a small tool to gently pry or dig out the immobilizer chip. Be extremely cautious not to break it. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, consider taking it to a professional locksmith.
- Insert the chip into the new key fob. Place the immobilizer chip into the designated slot in your new key fob shell. Ensure it’s securely placed.
Getting Your Key Cut
Unless you are simply replacing the shell and reusing your existing key blade, you’ll need to get the new key blade cut to match your 05 Honda Pilot‘s ignition.
- Find a qualified locksmith. Not all locksmiths handle car keys, especially those with immobilizer chips. Call ahead to ensure they have experience with car keys and key cutting for Honda vehicles.
- Key Cutting Cost. Be prepared for this to be the most expensive part of the process. As mentioned in the original post, key cutting can cost around $40.
Securing the Chip
To prevent the immobilizer chip from moving around inside the new key fob and potentially causing starting issues, secure it in place.
- Use Sticky Tack or Hot Glue. A small dab of sticky tack or hot glue can hold the chip securely in its place within the new key fob shell. Make sure not to actually glue over the chip itself if it has contact points, but rather secure it around the edges.
Programming Your 05 Honda Pilot Key Fob Remote
Once you’ve transferred the immobilizer chip and have a cut key, you’ll need to program the remote functions. Here’s how to program your 05 Honda Pilot key fob remote:
Before you begin:
- Have all your remotes for the vehicle present.
- Ensure all doors and the rear hatch/trunk are completely closed.
- You only need one programmed remote to enter programming mode, but all remotes must be programmed in the same session.
- Each step must be completed within 5 seconds.
Programming Steps:
- Get in your 05 Honda Pilot and close all doors and trunk/hatch tightly.
- Turn the ignition key to the ON position (II). This is the position where the dash lights illuminate. Within 5 seconds, press the “Lock” button on one of your remotes for about 1 second and release.
- Turn the ignition key to the OFF position (I). The dash lights will turn off.
- Repeat steps 2 & 3 three more times. (A total of 4 cycles of ON and OFF). Each step must be completed within 5 seconds of the previous one.
- On the 4th turn to the ON position, press the lock button on one remote. The door locks should cycle (make a clunking sound). This indicates the system is in programming mode. Do not turn the key off at this point.
- Within 5 seconds of entering programming mode, and within 5 seconds of each other, press the lock button on EACH remote you are programming for about a second and release. Each time you press a remote button, the locks should cycle. You can program up to 3 remotes. This step needs to be completed within 10 seconds.
- Turn the ignition completely OFF and remove the key. Exit your Honda Pilot and close the door.
Your 05 Honda Pilot key fob remotes should now be programmed and fully functional. Test all buttons (lock, unlock, and panic, if applicable). If you have a trunk/hatch release button, you might need to hold it for a few seconds to activate the trunk/hatch.
Pro-Tips and Troubleshooting
- Persistence is key. Programming can sometimes be finicky. If it doesn’t work on the first try, carefully repeat the steps. Ensure you are within the 5-second time limit for each step.
- II to I is crucial. As noted in user experiences, ensure you are moving the key from position II (ON) to position I (OFF) correctly.
- Consider a Flip Key. While you’re replacing your key fob, it might be a good time to upgrade to a flip key for added convenience and to modernize your 05 Honda Pilot key fob.
- Watch a Video. Sometimes seeing the process visually can be helpful. Search online for “Honda Pilot key fob programming video” for visual aids.
If you continue to have trouble programming your 05 Honda Pilot key fob, or if you are uncomfortable with any of these steps, it’s always best to consult a professional locksmith or your local Honda dealer. They have the expertise and tools to handle key fob replacement and programming efficiently.
References:
- Key fob replacement forum discussion
- Honda Pilot Keyless Entry Programming Forum Thread
