My 2006 TL has a problem that has been getting worse and seems to be worst when I haven't started the car for a few days. I put the key in and turn to start and the dash lights come on like normal and I get a fast chime, but no ignition and no cranking. At first, I could wiggle the key and that seemed to make it start on the next crank. After some googling I thought it might be a worn key and when I compared my #1 key to the unused #2 - wow! - really worn down! But the #2 key also experience the same problem today. I had to try 6-8 times before it finally cranked. Battery is fine.

I'm thinking either the ignition cyclinder itself is worn or the ignition switch is bad, but from what I've read a bad ignition switch would also cause occasionally stalling and I have not had that. I guess it could also be the starter relay and the jiggling keys didn't actually do anything except make me feel good between attempts.

I saw a video for how to replace the ignition cyclinder on an older Honda and it looked easy, but I also found some comments that make me think the current ones are installed with snap-off screws so they have to be drilled out - much harder.

If anyone has any hints on how to diagnose this further I would appreciate it. Otherwise it is time to go to the dealer.

Matt

 

Does it click at all when you turn the key; or is there absolutely no sound at all?

First guess: Starter motor.

Try hooking up a jumper box to the battery and attempt starting the vehicle. If you get more constant starts than what you're used to, I would say it's the Starter. The extra juice seems to make the starter solenoid work a little harder,which in the newer cars nowadays is actually part of the motor.
Also,common problem for these cars. Don't go buying parts on my account; but just being helpful.

Report back!

 

Project clean is at it again!!!
Great job with lending a hand on trouble shooting!

 

Thanks man! I do what i can. I gotta make myself my own Meme one of these days.

 

Thanks for the comment. I ended up replacing the starter and that solved the problem. I found that lots of people have the intermittent issue with the starter and it seemed a lot more likely than the ignition lock.

BTW, getting the starter out is a bit of a task for a DIY'er. First out is the battery and tray and the tray has 2 hidden bolts that are very difficult to access from the top. Luckily they are small bolts so it wasn't too hard to get them loose. Then the 2 starter bolts were on amazingly tight. It requires either a breaker bar or a piece of pipe on the wrench (1/2" drive) to get them loose. Plus a 5" extender is needed to get access. Other than that, it is a pretty easy swap!

 

I guess it depends on ever situation. I did one on my father's 7th gen Accord V6. Same setup. The battery tray bolts don't need to come out completely, just knock them loose,and give them a few turns. The battery tray slides upwards easily, (it has slots instead of just holes for the bolts). I did mine with a long reach 3/8 ratchet. :shrugs:

Glad you fixed it man.

 

i guess this is a little late, but i had a similar issue with a previous 2003 honda accord. i said a little prayer every time i tried to start my car.

replaced the starter motor, and it came back to life permanently, didn't have any issues for the next 100,000km before i sold it (to get my 07 TL =D)