The Honda Accord is a reliable vehicle known for its efficient fuel mileage. However, if it's not starting, it can keep you from getting to your destination in a timely manner. We have done the research to help you diagnose why it's not starting.
If your Honda Accord isn't starting, it could be due to the following:
- Dead Battery
- Dead Key Fob Battery
- Loose Battery Cables
- Corroded Battery Terminals
- Bad Alternator
- Blown Fuse
- Bad Starter Motor
- Faulty Starter Solenoid
- Bad Starter Relay
- Worn Spark Plugs
- Faulty Fuel Pump
- Immobilizer Error
- Clogged Fuel Filter
- Faulty Fuel Injectors
As you can see, there are several reasons why your Honda Accord isn't starting. Some are easy to diagnose on your own, while others need to be checked by a mechanic.
In this article, we will look at the functions of each of these parts and the warning signs that point to them being the culprit of the problem. In addition, we will discuss other frequently asked questions about issues with the Honda Accord, so read on!
Honda Accord Won't Start - What Could Be Wrong?
When your Honda Accord doesn't start, it can really throw a wrench in your day. You may not make it to work on time or pick the kids up from school. However, there are some things to check first before calling a mechanic.
Let's take a look at the most common reasons why your Honda Accord won't start below:
Dead Battery
The number one reason your Honda Accord does not start is a dead battery. If you haven't driven your vehicle in a while, the battery could just be drained. Try jumpstarting the vehicle to see if that solves your problem. If it does, you can charge the battery overnight and drive it to make sure it stays charged.
If your Accord still doesn't start after trying to jumpstart it, then you likely have a bad battery. No worries, though, because this is an easy fix! You can either have your local mechanic take care of this, or you can purchase a new battery and do it yourself.
Dead Key Fob
If you own a Honda Accord with a key fob, the battery may be dead. Instead, use the key fob to press the push-to-start button. Usually, the battery will have enough juice that you can get the car started.
Then go to a local auto parts store Honda dealer to purchase a new key fob battery.
Loose Battery Cables
Another reason that your Honda Accord may not be starting is due to loose or corroded battery cables. Ensure that the cables are clean, tight, and free of corrosion before moving on to other possible problems.
Corroded Battery Terminals
If your terminals are corroded, then it can cause your Accord to have electrical problems or not start. You will need to remove the battery cables and clean the terminals with a wire brush and baking soda. After you are done, ensure that they are reattached correctly by tightening them.
Bad Alternator
Another common reason your Honda Accord won't start is a faulty alternator. If the battery is charged but dies quickly, your alternator likely needs replacement. The alternator may have stopped working, or it could be putting out the wrong voltage.
Blown Fuse
If the battery cables and terminals are all clean, but you're still having issues, then a blown fuse could be the culprit. To check, look at your owner's manual for a list of interior fuses. Find the one that corresponds to the electrical system and then remove it from its socket to inspect it.
Bad Starter Motor
A bad starter can cause your Honda Accord not to start. If it turns over but doesn't catch, this may be the problem. If the starter is bad it may make a sound but not catch.
Faulty Starter Solenoid
If your starter is starting, but it takes a long time, or the engine continues to turn over, then you have a faulty starter solenoid. The solenoid can get stuck or corroded, which causes it not to work efficiently.
Bad Starter Relay
Another reason why your Honda Accord won't start is due to a bad starter relay. The relay is what allows the starter to receive power from the battery. If the relay isn't working, then it can cause your Accord not to start, or if it does, it may take a while for it to catch.
Worn Spark Plugs
If you've ruled out everything else on this list and your Accord still won't start, then worn spark plugs could be your issue. If your spark plugs are worn, it can lead to poor gas mileage and a loss of power. Therefore, you will need to replace them with new ones as soon as possible.
Faulty Fuel Pump
If you've gone through all of the easy fixes and none of them work, then it is likely that your Honda Accord won't start due to a faulty fuel pump. A bad fuel pump may make a whining noise when you try to start it.
Immobilizer Error
An immobilizer is a device that prevents a vehicle from being started unless the correct key is used. It is usually typical in cars that have high-security features. However, it won't let you start the vehicle if it is faulty.
If you see a flashing security light on your dash, it could be sensing a security breach. This can be reset by disconnecting the battery cables for thirty seconds and replacing them.
Clogged Fuel Filter
If your Accord is out of gas, then it won't start. So before you do anything else, make sure to put fuel in the tank. If you have already filled the tank and it's still not starting, you will need to check the fuel filter. The filter can become clogged with dirt over time, preventing the car from running correctly.
Faulty Fuel Injectors
If your fuel filter is fine and your Accord still won't start, you will need to replace the fuel injectors. This is because the injector nozzles can get clogged, or there could be debris in them that is preventing them from working correctly.
Why is my Honda Turning Over But Not Starting?
If your Honda is turning over or cranking but not starting, then you may not be getting enough fuel to the engine. This can be due to faulty fuel injectors, a clogged fuel filter, or worn spark plugs.
As mentioned earlier, it could also be due to a low battery charge or loose battery cables. If you have a loose battery cable, you will need to tighten it. After tightening the cables, you should also put a battery charger on the battery for ten to twenty minutes and try starting the car again.
How Do I Get my Honda Out of Anti-Theft Mode?
An easy way to get your Honda out of anti-theft mode is by pressing the alarm button five times and then pressing the lock button. If this doesn't work, try disconnecting the battery and waiting 30 seconds to a minute. Then, reconnect the battery terminals and see if this reset your system.
If this doesn't work, you then call the Honda dealer, and they will be able to give you the process over the phone.
Where is the Main Relay on a 2004 Honda Accord?
The main relay is under the hood on the driver's side of your engine. It will be a small black box by the engine. In addition, Honda Accords will have relays that function in certain parts of your vehicle, such as the blower fan, AC, and battery.
In addition, there will be another relay location underneath the steering wheel left of the brake. You will have to pop off the plastic cover to get to this relay system. Again, depending on what you need to replace will determine which relay location you need access to.
How Do you Unlock a Honda Accord with a Dead Battery?
If your Honda Accord battery is dead and the car is locked, there is still a way to get into the car. The easiest way is to put the key into the door and unlock the car manually. This will only unlock the driver door, but it will give you access so you can open the hood of your car to jumpstart your battery.
Suppose you have a newer Honda Accord with a key fob, then not to worry. On the back of the key fob, there is a switch that will release a physical key from the key fob. Use that key to unlock the door so you can open the hood to access your battery.
Final Thoughts
Like any vehicle, sooner or later, you will run into problems with your Honda Accord. Start with the basics by checking that the battery is charged, tight cables, and the terminal is clean. Next, check that your key fob battery isn't dead.
If you start feeling overwhelmed, contact a local Honda mechanic for assistance.
For more maintenance guides like this one, you should also read:
Does Coolant Level Drop When Engine Is Hot?