Is your 1999 Honda Accord key fob acting up? Before assuming you need a new key fob altogether, consider the simplest fix: replacing the battery. A weak or dead battery is often the culprit behind a malfunctioning key fob. This guide will walk you through how to replace the battery in your 1999 Honda Accord key fob and, if necessary, how to reprogram it.
Symptoms of a Low Key Fob Battery
Recognizing the signs of a dying key fob battery can save you time and money. Here are common indicators that your 1999 Honda Accord Key Fob Battery might be running low:
- Reduced Range: You need to be closer to your car than usual for the remote to work.
- Inconsistent Operation: The key fob works intermittently, sometimes responding and sometimes not.
- Weak Signal: You have to press the buttons harder or multiple times for the car to respond.
- No Response: The key fob completely stops working.
If you’re experiencing these issues, replacing the battery is the first and easiest step to try.
How to Replace the Battery in Your 1999 Honda Accord Key Fob
While specific instructions can vary slightly depending on the exact style of your 1999 Honda Accord key fob, the general process is straightforward. Typically, you’ll need a small Phillips head screwdriver and a CR2025 or CR2032 battery – check your owner’s manual or the markings inside your key fob for the exact battery type.
- Locate the battery compartment: Look for a small screw or a release latch on the back of your key fob.
- Open the key fob: Use the screwdriver to remove the screw or manipulate the latch to carefully open the key fob casing.
- Remove the old battery: Gently pry out the old battery. Note the orientation (+ side up or down) before removing it.
- Insert the new battery: Place the new battery in the compartment, ensuring it’s in the correct orientation.
- Close the key fob: Reassemble the key fob casing, making sure it’s securely closed. Replace the screw if there was one.
After replacing the battery, test the key fob to see if it’s working. If it still doesn’t operate correctly, you may need to reprogram it.
Reprogramming Your 1999 Honda Accord Key Fob
Reprogramming your 1999 Honda Accord key fob is necessary if it’s still not working after a battery replacement, or if you’ve obtained a new or used key fob. Follow these steps carefully, ensuring each step is completed within 5 seconds of the previous one.
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Get Ready: Sit in the driver’s seat of your 1999 Honda Accord with all doors and the trunk/hatch tightly closed. Have all key fobs you wish to program with you.
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Turn Key to “ON” and Press “Lock”: Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position (position “II” where dash lights are on). Within 5 seconds, press the “Lock” button on one of your key fobs for about 1 second, then release.
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Turn Key to “OFF”: Turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position (position “I” where dash lights go off).
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Repeat Steps 2 & 3 Three More Times: Repeat the “ON” and “OFF” key turns and “Lock” button press a total of four times. Remember, each step must be done within 5 seconds.
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Enter Programming Mode: On the 4th turn of the key to the “ON” position, press the “Lock” button on a key fob. You should hear the car locks cycle (a “clunk” sound). This indicates the system is in programming mode. Do not turn the key off at this point.
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Program Each Remote: Within 5 seconds of entering programming mode, and within 5 seconds of each other, press the “Lock” button on each key fob you want to program for about a second and release. Each time you press a remote button, the locks should cycle again. You can program up to 3 remotes in this session.
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Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition key completely to the “OFF” position and remove the key. Open and close the driver’s side door.
Now, test all your programmed key fobs to ensure they are working correctly. The lock, unlock, and trunk/hatch release functions (if equipped) should now be operational. If you encounter issues, carefully repeat the programming steps. If problems persist, it may be necessary to consult a professional automotive locksmith or dealership.
