Experiencing issues with your 2016 Honda Pilot key fob after a battery replacement? It’s a common frustration when the low battery warning turns into a non-functional remote. Let’s explore why your key fob might not be working even after installing a new 2016 Key Fob Battery and what troubleshooting steps you can take.
Many 2016 Honda Pilot owners encounter the ‘key fob low battery’ message, prompting a battery replacement. The standard battery for this model is the CR2032. However, simply replacing the battery doesn’t always solve the problem. You might find yourself in a situation where, like many others, your key fob refuses to operate the door locks, trunk, or panic button after the battery swap. Interestingly, the key fob might still allow you to start the vehicle when pressed directly against the start button.
If you’ve replaced your 2016 key fob battery and the red indicator light on the fob isn’t illuminating when you press a button, this often signals a problem beyond just battery power. It could indicate a few potential issues. First, while seemingly obvious, double-check that the new CR2032 battery is correctly installed with the proper polarity (+ and – sides). A reversed battery can prevent the fob from working. Second, consider the possibility of a faulty new battery. Although Duracell batteries are reliable, trying another new CR2032 battery is a quick and easy step to rule out a defective battery.
If a fresh battery doesn’t revive your 2016 Pilot key fob, the issue might be more complex than just power. While it’s less likely the fob became unpaired from your Honda Pilot simply due to a battery change, electronic malfunctions can occur. In some cases, the key fob itself might be damaged or have an internal fault. The fact that the red light isn’t turning on is a strong indicator of a hardware problem within the key fob.
Before assuming the worst, ensure the battery contacts inside the key fob are clean and making good contact with the battery. Sometimes, slight corrosion or debris can interfere with the connection. If cleaning the contacts and trying multiple new, correctly installed CR2032 batteries doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s advisable to seek professional help. Your local Honda dealer or a reputable automotive locksmith specializing in key fob repairs can diagnose whether the 2016 key fob itself is faulty and needs replacement or reprogramming. If you have a HondaCare contract, as mentioned in some owner experiences, it’s worth checking if key fob issues are covered under your policy.
