That seems like a gigantically huge misstep. I'm sure they did it for "security/safety" purposes but that is stupid as all get out.

 

Not buying that. If you were to look at an IPB for the drivers door handle and lock actuator (right side) you can verify the presence of a mechanical link. You might be able to find that diagram at a Honda UK parts house.

Meanwhile, easy enough to test. Open the bonnet (hood), lock the V, disconnect the battery, try the key.

“Thank you in advance” ???

Is it possible to learn something from Reddit?

 

I have had 100% flat battery and managed to open the Driver door mechanically with the key

 

You have a 2019 model @Packard9 – from the sounds of that post, this was introduced to CR-Vs from 2023. I've messaged Honda to ask if they can confirm or deny.

This problem was also reported on a 2012 RAV4.

 

I learned something incredible today from this Reddit post: from 2023 models, the driver's door lock is electronic, not mechanical. If the battery fails, it'll trap you outside the car.

@jorge-Esqueleto has a 2023 UK CR-V. His 12v battery went flat while he was away, and on returning, he found he was unable to unlock his car, even using the metal emergency key.

Honda UK told him:



This meant he was unable to open the bonnet the normal way to charge the battery. A Honda technician had to jack up the car and open the bonnet release via the engine bay.

Has anyone with a Gen 5 run into this problem? Has anyone found a workaround?

One step might be to install extension cables that enable you to charge the battery without opening the bonnet. Or perhaps you could add something that allows you to open the bonnet latch from the outside. Neither is a very appealling method.

I was all set to buy a 2023 CR-V. But this is putting me right off.

run wires from battery to rear of bumper and attach an anderson plug on the end then fix it horizontally to the bumper. then get a set of jump leads and remove the spring clips from one end and attach the other part of the anderson plug to them . now you can jump your battery without opening hood. i have done this on my 2013 crv and it is handy for jumping other peoples cars.

 

Confined works for crv 24 with dead battery

 

run wires from battery to rear of bumper and attach an anderson plug on the end then fix it horizontally to the bumper. then get a set of jump leads and remove the spring clips from one end and attach the other part of the anderson plug to them . now you can jump your battery without opening hood. i have done this on my 2013 crv and it is handy for jumping other peoples cars.

Interesting – I was thinking of something similar, but using SAE connector, which some chargers support. Hopefully that wouldn't count as a modification for insurance purposes.

Confined works for crv 24 with dead battery

O wow, brilliant! Canada though? Might be different to the Japanese versions we get.

 

Interesting – I was thinking of something similar, but using SAE connector, which some chargers support. Hopefully that wouldn't count as a modification for insurance purposes.



O wow, brilliant! Canada though? Might be different to the Japanese versions we get.

all it does is give direct power to battery nothing else

 

why don't you try to unlock with the key before you buy. Even if your just looking at the car you can always try the key . Will put a end to Plans to run wires connections to the battery,end of worries

 

Good idea, though I expect the key to work fine when the battery's normally charged. Your experience is encouraging though, thanks.

 

Honda have just confirmed this.

Thank you for contacting Honda (UK) regarding your enquiry about the door lock functionality on recent CR-V models.

We can confirm that some recent Honda CR-V models — including the 2023 Hybrid sold in the UK — are equipped with electronic door lock actuators. In these versions, the emergency metal key may not unlock the driver’s door if the 12V battery is completely discharged, as there is no mechanical override.

Unfortunately, the exact year this change was introduced is not officially specified, but it is confirmed to be present by model year 2023.

If you need assistance accessing your vehicle in such a situation, we recommend contacting your local Honda dealer.

 

Might want to move this thread over to the UK section since your landsmen might want a heads up.

 

I can't see how to do that, will have to leave it to a mod. I also fancy it's a global thing, or soon will be.

 

I just cannot imagine any car would not have a mechanical connection to the door lock. Without one, you would not be able to leave the car after an accident if the battery was dead or disconnected following an accident?

 

some of the mk4 crvs left the factory with the door lock bar not connected.

 

I know, completely insane right? But that does seem to be how they're doing it. I've been reading about a similar situation with the deadlocking (double locking) feature of VAG cars.

 

A key wouldn't be supplied if there wasn't a mechanical lock to unlock.

It's possible that the OP's lock cylinder was seized.

 

That's what a reasonable person would assume. But it looks like it's now just to operate the electronic system if the fob dies. Mad, but this is what they're doing here.

 

I have to assume that you can install a mechanical lock cylinder in the place of the OEM lock to end this issue.

And, BTW how exactly does one get into their vehicle on a dead battery with a lock design such as there is in the 2023 model? Break the window? Somebody please call Honda to get the answer.