[sbrogden]

Had a new key made for the 2011 CRV we just bought; it came with only 1. The locksmith that made the new key said the ignition switch was worn and would likely need to be replaced soon; said Hondas have this problem.

We don't have a problem inserting or removing keys. What's the straight poop on this?

 

[Traylaw]

The only thing I have heard and experienced were the electrical contacts in the ignition switch used to energize the starter. This problem is usually accompanied with a buzzing sound when you turn the key. This is a simple problem to fix for any DIYer and costs around $30 for the part. Only the electrical contacts are replaced not the whole ignition switch. Other than that, I have not heard of any other problem.

 

[sbrogden]

Many thanks for your reply! No buzzing sound currently. Will keep my ears open. This forum is excellent!

 

[udraft]

I would do nothing, but if you ever have problems in that area, you'll have a clue.

 

[sbrogden]

That's my plan. Be careful extracting the key and enjoy the ride.

 

[Carbuff2]

I always suggest a yearly application of a Dry Graphite lubricant such as Lock-Ease.

Preventative maintenance is KEY!

Amazon.com: American Grease Stick LE-4 "Lock-ease" Graphited Lock Fluid 3.4 Oz.: Home Improvement

Amazon.com: American Grease Stick LE-4 "Lock-ease" Graphited Lock Fluid 3.4 Oz.: Home Improvement

www.amazon.com

 

[Wildcat]

I think there is a little confusion regarding ignition switch vs. the actual lock cylinder used on the steering column. The ignition switch is a set of electrical contacts that are mechanically connected to, but not a part of, the lock cylinder. The locksmith was being quite vague in saying the "ignition switch."

Have I ever heard of a lock cylinder failing? Not in recent memory. But I've had two ignition switches go bad on me--one in my '97 CR-V, the other in a '99 TL. Both had recalls by Honda, and both were easily replace by me for about $35 in parts. (They were in the steering column on the opposite side of the lock cylinder, connected by a flat metal rod that rotated the switch.)

Similar to what @Traylaw says above, you may hear a buzzing in the switch when it is starting to fail. Or in my case, the vehicle would shut off while driving, like someone had reached over and turned the key off. Fortunately they always started right up afterwards, but I made sure to order in a new switch and replace it as soon as I could.

Both of our '09s have had zero issues with the lock cylinders and ignition switches. Both have around 150k miles. To maintain the lock cylinder, follow @Carbuff2's advice and get some dry graphite lubricant to keep the tumbler pins moving freely. (Never use an oil, a spray, WD40, etc., in any lock cylinder--they will gum up and attract dirt. Graphite is a dry lubricant that does not attract dust and dirt.)

 

[RockyMtnCRV]

My '07 Ridgeline began experiencing ignition issues a few years ago.

The dealership wanted $700 +/- to 'fix' it (new ignition key + same door key = 2 keys to operate the vehicle).

On the Ridge forum it was recommended to find a 'automotive' locksmith and that this specialist could rebuild the ignition cylinder to operate with the existing key(s).

I made a few calls and within a week (small town) I had the repair done for $85.00.

Well worth the phone/sleuth time.

BTW - I LOVE my dealership, they are not locksmiths so they can only deal with this repair one way...

 

[Wildcat]

BTW - I LOVE my dealership, they are not locksmiths so they can only deal with this repair one way...

I agree. I really like the Honda dealer I use also, yet there are some jobs I would not have them do, as I can usually get the same quality of work for half the price elsewhere. I do like that our dealer's service department is quite honest. I took our old Civic in for an alignment, and was called back to the dealer within a half hour. They took me under the car to show me where the control arm bushings had dry-rotted and broken, and said they wouldn't do an alignment as they couldn't get the correct results. No pressure to replace the parts either--in our area, the economy isn't the greatest, and they realize many customers will do the work themselves or have it done elsewhere. And also to their credit, they will use non-Honda parts for some of the repairs. Replacing brake lines, for instance. They can still order sets from Honda's distribution center, but they instead buy brake line in bulk and custom bend the lines themselves.

I have a feeling that dealers like this are rare...