Fix For 2003 Honda Pilot Key That Won't Turn

[@wadeperry8505]

This was an excellent video. Except for the missing part about the pin- read on to see how I solved that. My 2004 Honda Pilot ignition broke in the parking lot at work, and the car was dead. Sat there nearly a week while I did this fix. Everything was as ravraid said, including that 4th screw, which was every bit as difficult as he said. At 4:49 he shows the screwdriver he bent. I did this too, using a propane torch and a Phillips, and pliers. I heated the end of the phillips with the torch for less than a minute, it heated up quick. When it was glowing red hot I bent it 90 degrees with the pliers. I had to do this twice as the first time the bend was too close to the end, making the tool too short. There's items that need to be cleared on the inside of the 90 degree arc you need to get to the next spot on the phillips screw head, so you can turn it the next 90 degrees. This was enormously difficult, and I wasn’t making headway. I was discouraged. I prayed to the Lord who created the heavens and the earth, and I believe He helped me. Finally got the screw started that first critical bit, (yay) and after that it was just a matter of time. When I got the cover off, and took off the green ring under it, I got to the main problem with this video: At 5:34 "the actual key module can come out". This is not the case. Mine is a 2004, and would not come out. When ravraid says in response to this issue "just use pliers, jiggle it, use WD40", that's not good advice. There's a steel pin holding the cylinder in place. Sometime in 2022, CoolEyeColorado said It is ridiculously hard to find. You can see the hole, but you almost have to knock it out blindly since it is hard to see. I had to get upside down under the dash. Watch this video link below and at 2:24 /25 he shows the pin. The problem is when you are under the dash it is hard to see. but it is there. I kind of blindly had to knock it out. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eX-8eZaJer5mirs the video he references shows the concept, but of course that guy has the whole assembly on the bench. We need to get the pin out while the assembly is installed on the steering column or it defeats the purpose. I don't know how CoolEyeColorado could "blindly knock it out". If it’s possible it’s probably quicker. But here's what I did: In my 2004 Pilot the pin was on the SIDE of the cylinder housing, not under it. The side towards the engine, away from the driver seat. You have to put your head on the floor mat, close to the gas pedal. there were 3 holes on the engine side of the housing, close to where the key goes in. The top one (the one most in line with the cylinder) was the pin. It's a bit dark, but taking pictures with my camera I could see the donut shape of the pin in there. Just like on the 2nd video above that CoolEye referenced, I drilled a hole. To do this while in the car, you need a right angle drill attachment. I used: DEWALT DWARA100 Impact Ready Right Angle Drill Attachment This was ~$50 Canadian at Home Depot in Canada. I was blessed to be able to borrow this from a friend. You also need a set of the kind of drill bits that have a hex base (not the most common round kind), so they can work with this drill attachment. I bought a set of 4 ryobi, Maybe $17 Canadian at Home Depot. The first hole I drilled using the 3/32 bit. I drilled right beside the pin. Then used picks to try to dig the pin out, didn't work. I broke a pick trying to get it into the end of the pin itself and hook it out. Then I drilled another hole on the other side, to try to get needle-nose pliers on the end of the pin. Also didn't work. Then I used a larger bit on those holes, an 1/8" diameter. Still couldn't get enough purchase to get the needlenose onto the end of the pin. (Besides it was ridiculously difficult to do this, I was reaching through the panel with my right hand and guiding the pliers with my left, then squeezing with my left and trying to push it away) Then I took stock. Either I continue trying to make this fix work and end up wrecking the ignition cylinder, or I have to replace it anyway with a new part (around $200 Canadian), and do a new installation that's pretty difficult in itself. So I made swiss cheese. In the end I drilled 4 or 5 holes, starting with the 3/32 bit and enlarging it to the 1/8. It was hard to start a new hole with the other holes so close, you don't want to have the bit slant off into a neighboring hole, so you have to hold it steady against the direction it's trying to move. This is all difficult, I spent perhaps 4 hours, maybe 45 minutes of actual drilling in a confined space, with frequent breaks as I got cramped. In the end there wasn't enough material left around the pin to hold it in place and the cylinder popped outward. I had sort of gone crazy, with filings on my hat and all over the floor mat, I got a little in my mouth. Certainly use glasses. When I slid the assembly out (See 5:40), there were indeed holes that I'd drilled in the outer part of this, and even through to the inner part (with the wafers). I'd made quite a mess. I had decided earlier, reading others’ comments, to pull all the wafers and most of the springs. cleaned up the inner cylinder, sprayed silicone lube on it, and reinstalled as ravraid's video. I left that difficult 4th screw off entirely when I put the plastic housing back on. Even with all the extra holes I'd made, the assembly still worked flawlessly. Perhaps not surprisingly, smoother than before. The car started. :) Thanks again for this great video ravraid, and hopefully this write up of the journey I did will help the next people who attempt this. Be prepared to work hard and persevere. The Pilot's a pretty good car, and now I can keep it going with its existing ignition. Have yet to test whether I can start it with a screwdriver. :) Praise be to the God of the Psalms of the Bible, the Lord of heaven and earth, bless His Holy Name! Wade Perry Calgary, Canada

[@ravraid]

Thanks for the details, especially on the pin. I certainly did not have to go through that so something was very different on my 2003 Pilot. For me, this was a challenge but nothing like what you described!

[@CoolEyeColorado]

Very helpful! 2004 Honda Pilot. One thing to note is that darn cotter like pin has to come out in order to get the cylinder out (this video does not show that @5:34). My ignition cylinder would not come out. I read the comments and kept seeing comments about a small cotter pin. Finally found it by laying on my back upside down basically under the steering column. It is small and black. I ended up pushing on the cylinder slighting inward and using a 1/16 drill bit to drill at an angle into the pin itself. It popped out. But not seeing that in the video…man that took me forever to find that. Note…This was the first time doing it in the vehicle that is why the cotter pin was in there. Thanks for this great video though. Followed all the steps. I ended up popping all the tumblers out and leaving them out. Put it back together and fired right up! Cheers!

[@ravraid]

Thanks for the note as it will likely help others. I'm certain I did no such thing on mine but perhaps mine was an older production model or perhaps mine was broken. Regardless, I'm glad you figured it out and added to the comments.

[@CoolEyeColorado]

@@ravraid Thanks. Great video and always appreciate the KZbin folks who have these videos that help us all.

[@alexhoover3210]

@@CoolEyeColorado Hey where exactly is the cotter pin?

[@CoolEyeColorado]

@@alexhoover3210 It is ridiculously hard to find. You can see the hole, but you almost have to knock it out blindly since it is hard to see. I had to get upside down under the dash. Watch this video link below and at 2:24 /25 he shows the pin. The problem is when you are under the dash it is hard to see. but it is there. I kind of blindly had to knock it out. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eX-8eZaJer5mirs

[@RMSecurityGroup]

Exactly!

[@adamcuevas7527]

Great video, so well done, step by step,, got my old 2003 pilot beast fixed. One idea that worked well for me, before putting the disabler back on was I notched the hole on the disabler for the difficult screw. I put that difficult screw on and tightened it down 3/4 of the way, then I was able to put on the disabler slipping the notch over the difficult screw and tighten it the last quarter of the way. 340k miles, original engine and trans! She refuses to die!!

[@ravraid]

Notching the hole is a great idea - I wish I'd thought of that!

[@2727nathan]

I have a 2003 pilot with the same issue. Followed your video and it work flawlessly. Thank you very much.

[@ravraid]

So glad to hear it worked out. Many folks struggle with getting the cylinder out so I'm glad when it goes well.

[@charifsoubra4953]

Awesome step-by-step explanation and breakdown! Saved me in a jam when my daughter couldn’t get the key to budge in our Pilot in her dorm parking lot. Took everything apart with a basic toolkit on hand, and some ingenuity, and got it back on the road. This video was the real hero!

[@ravraid]

Wow, I'm so grateful you posted this. It is really encouraging to hear people say that these videos are helpful. Thanks!

[@Mrfrags4117]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video. Knowing what to expect is 90% of it for me. My 2004 does this intermittently and it drives me bananas.

[@ravraid]

I'd suggest reading through the comments as well. Some folks have struggled with getting the key cylinder out while it was no problem for some of us.

[@CortlandtInge-i2p]

I would know that voice anywhere. You are one hell of a woodworker Mr. Black tail. A voice made for helping people. Thanks so much.

[@ravraid]

Ah, I wish I were a great woodworker! I don't know Mr Blacktail but I certainly appreciate the comments!

[@thomascrown1878]

Thanks, the exact same issue with mine. You confirmed what I suspected. Knowing what to expect gives me confidence the fix won't go sideways. Tom

[@GordonRaboud]

This is the best video I've seen out of a dozen videos on this subject. My key was stuck in the ignition so removing the top plastic part was a significant problem! I figured it was worth breaking it in order to get it past the key. Fortunately, that material is very strong and pliable. It didn't break despite using all my strength to deform it so it would get past the key and this was in the cold, (0°C or 32°F), where is could have been brittle, (but wasn't). For the hard to reach - hidden - 4th screw: A small piece of double sided sticky tape, (ex: 'carpet tape'), should also work instead of the 'glue dots' for the 4th screw. Long needle nose pliers and a "multi-screw driver Philips bit" should be able to remove/replace the 4th screw

[@ravraid]

Thanks for adding to the discussion. While this is a common problem, it seems like everyone's experience is a bit different. I seem to have had it relatively easy! I'm with you about breaking stuff to fix it - a benefit of working on a 20-year-old car. I've had good luck using a dremel with a disk-cutter to cut through the dash material. It is incredibly resilient.

[@tysshed5807]

Very awesome video that actually dives into the part not just swapping it out and having to reprogram keys.

[@gageschleser6307]

Thank you very much for your assistance with this video, I spent the whole morning trying to get that back screw out but my father was able to help me out. Once I knew which pins were the problem it was a cinch to fox the entire thing. I remember my mother telling me when I got this car that it had a faulty ignition when there is too much weight hanging off of it. So to anybody who has these cars, don’t put too much on the keychain and it probably won’t be an issue.

[@RMSecurityGroup]

Actually they just fail over time

[@northcountrycraftsman2558]

Watched the video in full and completed the project in 2 hours. Way better than replacing the entire ignition like I was going to do. Time to burn one.

[@ravraid]

Greatest comment ever.

[@AboutTruckDriving]

Best video of this procedure yet and the shortest one to boot! Ah, the power of editing. Thank you!

[@tazwowe]

The most thorough video ive watched on this. Need Ridgeline video, so hopefully its enough the same. Also, best quality filming of the process and details. Thanks!

[@ravraid]

Thanks for the encouragement! Getting good video can be a big challenge and I'm still trying to figure out the best way.

[@moltomas1]

@@ravraid how can you remove the cotage pin??

[@ravraid]

@@moltomas1 Sorry, which pin are you referring to? Can you give me a time stamp in the video?

[@davidrader5765]

Great video! I did it this afternoon in about 4 hours. Got around the nasty 4th screw bending the cover up enough to get the encoder and key assy out. The wafers became too much of a problem to keep working so I took them all out. I figured put it back together and try it. And it works just fine. The key turns like it should and pops out when you remove it. Thanks again!

[@dpsflyboy]

So are you saying you removed all of the wafers? If so, does the key stay in the ignition with out them?

[@davidrader5765]

@@dpsflyboy Yes, I removed them all and it works. As soon as the key assy is back in the steering column the key turns just like it did before.

[@CentralOSurvival]

​@@davidrader5765 how do you get the key assembly out?

[@robd9026]

Does anyone know if using the valet key makes a difference.we have been using the valet key for over a year because the main key is missing. 2004 pilot, had the issue where the key would not turn. Remove the switch and the wafers put everything back. Still does not turn.

[@Slayd5000]

Thank you for this video!! I did this repair on my 2003 Pilot this evening. Ran into a snag on that 4th screw, but your bent screwdriver idea was a stoke of genius. I grabbed a cheap one from the dollar store, heated it up with a Mapp torch, took my time with it (quarter turn at a time) and voila!!

[@ravraid]

Thanks very much for the comment and so glad the video helped! Congratulations on getting it working again. I've had no problems with mine since I made the repair.

[@jjsage8903]

I gotta replace mine, so that one screw is the hardest part right?

[@mikeheinz3629]

Got it done works perfectly! I removed all the wafers and it starts flawlessly. Thanks for the great video!! Only thing I had to figure out was removing the cotter pin to release the ignition column.

[@alexseeley8573]

How did you remove the cotter pin?

[@TheVasquez911]

@@alexseeley8573 use a drill bit 1/16 and a Hammer since I dont have the right tool.

[@jeffsolavei3547]

@@alexseeley8573 removing the cotter pin was a nightmare. There is a small hole on the top of the ignition housing that goes through to the cotter pin. I used a dremel to drill out the hole out towards the engine so there was a complete space/opening to work in above the cotter pin. I laid on the ground under the drivers seat. While pressing in the ignition to release tension on the cotter pin, I then used an ice pick to work it out. Quite tedious and difficult given the working space, but it eventually came out!

[@Darkelementsx22]

hey mike, was wondering how its running since you removed all the wafers? ( wafers and springs right? )

[@Washugal1111]

I got everything off ok but couldn’t get that pin out. So I was able to unscrew the shear bolts and take the whole assembly off and now I’m unfortunately replacing the whole thing. Found it for $160

[@phillipsmith3545]

Saved my family so much money. Thank you for the great video.

[@ogrepint]

For the tricky screw, I used a combo of a small electronics screwdriver and Leatherman pliers to grab the outer rim and rotate

[@stevenfleischer7198]

Thank you for the video. Very good details. I like how you fixed it not just replaced it.

[@mikeheinz3629]

Finally got the ignition cylinder to come out for my 04 Pilot. There is a small black cotter pin on the backside closer to the dashboard above two screw holes. Helped me to just take the entire assembly off. Screwdriver and hammer to remove the two sheer bolts was easy for me.

[@lancegillman5488]

Hi. I have been working on my 04 Honda Pilot trying to remove the ignition cylinder for quite some time now. Could you tell me how you got the pin out to release the cylinder?

[@timrobinson6573]

I reassembled the lock without the wafers and installed it back in my Pilot. Works Great. Key goes in super smooth and truck starts right up.

[@kylethesquidkid3699]

Is it still working correctly? How does the key stay in one position? My Key won't press into the Ignition anymore but I don't really want to order a new Ignition Switch and have the new Key reprogrammed.

[@MzKandiLane]

Dude thank you for your video, the other video I saw was a total mess 😂 thanks for details! 👍🏼

[@jcbenson01]

Thank you. Wife called today having issues and being stranded. Our other vehicle is a 3/4ton manual tranny longbed and she refuses to drive it lol. So hoping I can get this issue resolved tonight so she can get to work tomorrow!

[@ravraid]

Good luck with it! Please note that some others have said that they struggled to get the cylinder out whereas for me it was a breeze. I'd look through the comments because people have figured out some good tricks for various issues. I haven't had a single issue with mine in the two years since I did the fix so it's worthwhile.

[@jcbenson01]

@@ravraid funny you mention that. I’m sitting here trying to figure out how the cylinder is supposed to come out of the column. It doesn’t seem to want to budge

[@NorCalTooHypper]

Excellent Video, thanks very much for both your time and your patience in filming and troubleshooting this issue. ❤

[@jamesbelak4021]

Great Video. Knowing that it can be done helps so much when doing a task like this. Ran into one complication. Our 2003 Pilot key was stuck inside the ignition switch and the cover / wiring does not fit over the key. After setting up a makeshift bench in the car to punch out the pin, I was able to remove the key by systematically removing the wafers while inside the car.

[@ravraid]

Wow, extra points for high degree of difficulty!

[@mijomcgyver6270]

Thank you very much for making and posting this video. There are several others here dealing with this same issue, but I found yours to be the best of the bunch. It has excellent videography and clear explanations of every step. Prior to viewing these videos I was apprehensive to attempt the repair - even with 20+ years of experience as a maintenance technician (and even longer working on vehicles) under my belt. Your video in particular gave me the confidence I needed to dive into it. I did, however, deviate from your techniques in that I opted to unbolt the ignition assembly "collar" from the shaft so I could manipulate the key mechanism. This gave me easy access to that 4th screw - both for its removal and (especially) its replacement. To do so I used a small needle-nosed vise grip pliers to grasp the outer perimeter of the base of the shear bolts with the tips. It was tedious, but worked fairly easily and IMO was certainly worth the extra time and effort. Once removed, I also cut channels into the heads of the shear bolts so I could use a screwdriver to reinstall them - and if need be to remove them again in the future. I highly recommend using these tricks rather than doing as you did in the video. Anyway, after about 3.5 hours the repair was completed, and the ignition switch is now working well. Again, thanks a million. Liked and subscribed.

[@ravraid]

This is so darn cool! Thanks for your comments! I'm so glad you dove in and I hope others read about your improved methods. I absolutely hacked my way through but I'm glad that you found a better way. I'll be sure to point others in the future to your post. Too bad you didn't video it for YT!

[@johncariniCRM]

This worked for me thanks. I did however remove all the tumbler thingys. Also I didn't bother putting back the 4th screw on the key housing that was difficult to reach. Now I have an extra screw ;-)

[@ravraid]

Hah! I just say, "Hey look, spare parts!"

[@timrobinson6573]

I just did the same exact thing. I did however leave in just the last tumbler thingy, you know the big one, just because I was certain where that one went. I also didn't put the 4th screw back in.

[@mamaman59]

Great video. My 2003 Pilot is having the same problem. Now I know what to do. Thanks.

[@J.R.AirPiX]

Is there a trick to get the tumbler out? Does the key have to be in and in the on position? I got the immobilizer sensor off but tumbler seems to be stuck…

[@ravraid]

I've heard that from a number of people. Please read through the comments as some folks have posted how they got it out. The cylinder came out without a hitch for me. One person noted that it was jammed but they shook it loose with a pair of pliers.

[@stephaniem2945]

@@ravraid I am having the same problem. I will try the pliers trick as well.

[@scottr7550]

5:34 --It shouldnt come out that easy unless its been taken apart before and the small roll pin that is on the backside (towards the dash) has been removed from previous repair or just falls out. some are hard to remove..

[@RMSecurityGroup]

Exactly

[@ChasMtz420]

I hate videos like this that skip over key portions. It's not as if that key portion just comes right out. It certainly doesn't

[@RMSecurityGroup]

Yup there is a pin holding it in

[@angelriver1368]

Literally 2 flat head bolt and the entire key assembly comes off

[@WildBillandFriends]

Key portions?

[@ravraid]

Others have mentioned the pin but my 2003 didn’t have it. Perhaps a production change in later years

[@thomasselbee3497]

I have a 2003 that has it​@@ravraid

[@Darkelementsx22]

Thank you man, took me forever because i didnt have a small right angle screw driver so i took off the bracket instead but my god all the pieces were falling off and i was freaking out not recalling how it went back on lol. But i fixed it. Thanks

[@ravraid]

Excellent! Congrats on getting it fixed!

[@fgarsombke1]

Thanks so much for this video. Honda Pilot 2004 and key would not turn. I've replaced all the failed door actuators so was about due for another major failure. For future viewers, I got the fourth screw out with a Husky offset screwdriver I bought at Home Depot (still took over an hour to get it unscrewed) and a 1/16 punch out to take the cylinder pin out. Pretty easy with a hammer, vice, and daughter holding it in the vice. All told took abiut four hours (not including trip to HD). I did remove all the wafers except for last one (single that looks like a double). It now works flawlessly! The Pilot will never die. Muhaaaaaaa. And yeah, F that fourth screw. Definitely did NOT put that back.

[@ravraid]

YOU GO! I'm also trying to keep the Pilot running forever - or at least for all my kids to learn on it!

[@jamesbelak4021]

BTW: The Pilot has a small plastic cover on the top part of the steering column cover. It you remove this, you can stick your key, or a screw driver down, to press the yellow lever and shift into neutral (or another gear) and easily remove the top cover.

[@74Voyeur]

I got to put this to practice recently, when the tow truck driver didn't know how to move our Pilot onto his flatbed. After receiving a quote from the mechanic for approximately $1500.00 CDN for a new ignition switch assembly (incl programming), it will be worth my effort to follow these instructions.

[@joeyboulevard4475]

My cylinder is not just sliding out. People are telling me I must remove housing. How did you get ign to pop out upon removing PCB?

[@ravraid]

Yeah, it wasn't a problem for me as just a bit of wiggling brought it out. If you look through the comments below, you'll read that some folks used WD-40, pliers, screwdrivers, picks, etc. to get it out. I would try channel lock pliers to grab onto the protruding part and just keep wiggling. I'm not sure what might be binding in there. If you figure it out, please post back.

[@johnkehl6268]

Great video. Thorough and informative commentary and video process. Thanks.

[@dannypalmer7701]

I took out the steering lock and cylinder pins and unlocked the stuck key hole.put it back in.Works great Nobody gonna steal my old high millage Honda Pilot!! 🤣

[@ravraid]

I had the same thought but I put back most of the wafers just so the key wouldn't fall out on the floor!

[@tonyl8242]

Thank you very much for sharing your experience! Very helpful to people who want to save some money. Nice filming and elaborate description and demonstration.

[@oscarmcking8051]

Hahaha 😂you just save me from a big problem thank you so much GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME 🎉

[@jorgeespinoza3150]

Much appreciated. Very helpful. Looks like you didn't have to deal with the small pins on the side of the ignition switch that have to be tapped out. I didn't have to deal with them either, they may have fallen due to vibration?

[@ravraid]

Yeah, I see comments about that but I didn't have to deal with them. Maybe there was a change in production? Mine is a 2003 so one of the very early models.

[@jorgeespinoza3150]

@ravraid my pilot is 2008 and I saw one pin, but pretty much as an afterthought because I was already putting the key barrel back on lol. It didn't stop me from getting the job done. Again, thank you very much for taking the time! You've helped a lot of people I'm sure.

[@Doug_E_Fresh]

My key module isnt coming out.. Is there a trick? 5:35

[@ravraid]

Others have reported the same. Take a look through the comments. It sounds like WD-40 and wiggling with pliers has helped.

[@Doug_E_Fresh]

Just when I was about to give up and put it back together, the module finally came out. Completed the job in 1.5 hours thanks to this video.. Thanks for posting!!

[@yomozingo]

Thanks for the very detailed video! I got all the way to the point that you should be able to easily slide out key cylinder. But for some reason it won’t slide out. So frustrating. Any suggestions?

[@yomozingo]

Nevermind. I was able to stick a slotted screwdriver into bottom near key insert. It pushed up a brass mechanism and the cylinder slid out.

[@yomozingo]

I removed all the wafers. Put everything back together in the vehicle but now the key won’t turn. It seems like something is locked up. Any suggestions?

[@ravraid]

@@yomozingo Even without putting the cylinder in the car, does the key turn within the cylinder? The key needs to turn easily within the cylinder shell when inserted.

[@yomozingo]

@@ravraid I ended up having a locksmith look at it. He confirmed it was a faulty steering lock as well. It was a mess. I ended up buying a whole new assembly. He put it in and reprogrammed the key for me. Overall, I did the right thing for the cylinder problem but somehow another problem was created with steering lock. I was full ready to use old key without wafers, lol. Now I have new key and just leave it in the ignition and lock the doors with the old one.

[@ravraid]

@@yomozingo Good thinking. I was prepared to do the same if I couldn’t get mine working again. A car isn’t very useful if you can’t turn the key!

[@aasd240]

Perfect; thank you for the DIY tutorial.

[@heshamelbarawy4916]

Thank you for your detailed and clear video, how did you remove the 1/16" black pin? I am hay hard time with it, did you Hammer it from the top until it came at the bottom

[@ravraid]

Ah, this comes up frequently. On my 2003, there was no pin for me other than the one at 5:51 in the video but look through the comments as many other folks have mentioned another pin and how they dealt with it. I think you could also message some of these folks if you want further details and I'm confident they'll help out.

[@heshamelbarawy4916]

​​@@ravraidyes, I was talking about the same one you had at 5:51, it looks like you used a pin punch tool, Did you just tapped on it with the hammer, hopefully it wasn't a nightmare to get out.. thanks again

[@johnschader8074]

Very helpful video. Thanks for sharing

[@dannypalmer7701]

Nobody wants to steal a old Honda pilot.Even the junk yard dont want it! 😂

[@jiselitaymarianita1908]

Gracias por este vídeo ya mi carro quedó al toque muy bien explicado únicamente tube problema al querer sacar el último cilindro pero al final lo logré mucha gracias

[@meastwood274]

Excellent my friend. 290k on mine. Much more cost effective solution!

[@josepherbarocio1059]

Other comments are right about the cylinder not sliding out easily. There is a roll pin stopping it from coming out - however thanks for the video! Helped me otherwise

[@RMSecurityGroup]

Yup rollpin

[@jonathanforeman3270]

Mine has a pin on the module. So I had to drill it out. The screws were easy to take out as well.

[@ravraid]

Was yours a 2003 Pilot? I'm wondering if the design changed over the years.

[@roooal5533]

Can I replace the cylinder without having to program the key?

[@ravraid]

Ah, great question but I'm not sure. It seems likely but perhaps others will comment...

[@Bottlefedtren]

Hey I just want to be one hundred percent certain before I actually buy the tool the tool itself is called a 1/16 inch punch right

[@ravraid]

Yes, I used the 1/16" punch from a set similar to this one: www.homedepot.com/p/Dasco-Pro-Pin-Punch-Set-6-Piece-22/100155966

[@Bottlefedtren]

@@ravraid good lad apriteate you man once I get that tool you will have saved me hundreds of dollars

[@ravraid]

@@Bottlefedtren Make sure you review the comments below from others. Some folks have had some helpful suggestions that should make the job easier.

[@davisevans9531]

I need help. I can’t seem to figure out how to remove my key module. It’s not popping out like urs did

[@ravraid]

That has come up in many of the comments. I encourage you to read through the comments as folks solved this in various ways: with WD-40, slip-joint pliers, prying with a screwdriver, etc. It turns out I was lucky but it should come out with some persuasion. By the way, no problems with this since the repair - over 2 years

[@brittanilinnarz9710]

I have a 2011 but it seems more complex to remove the shroud on the newer model. So far its looking like the whole steering wheel will have to come off

[@lkmsaint]

I have this problem with my 2003 Pilot. Thanks for the video and your clear instructions. On a different note, do you have any ideas on making the doors not lock so quickly? Also I was hoping to find a way to keep the interior lights from turning off after just a couple of seconds when you take the key out. From what I understand, it's a safety mechanism but for me it's more of an issue. Those are a couple of the minor issues I have with my Pilot (a long with a few major) and I thought maybe you nipped those in the bud right away with yours! Thanks for any advice.

[@ravraid]

So when do the doors lock too quickly? I want to say mine only lock when I signal from the key-fob. For me, the interior lights stay on for 10 seconds after I remove the key and close the door. If I use the key-fob to lock the doors, the interior lights turn off immediately unless the handle-light switch is on. Because of that, I suggest you watch my video on altering the interior light circuit since, to my mind, the interior light design on the 2003 Pilot risks draining the battery since any of the handle-lights can be left on all the time - i.e. they don't turn off on their own.

[@lkmsaint]

@@ravraid My doors lock in about 5 seconds after taking the key out of the ignition. Whether I get the door open or not (to get out). It's very easy to lock the keys in the car if I don't make sure they are in my hand. Another example is getting in the car..once in and the doors close, they lock after 5 seconds. But then if I try to the start the car, it sets off the alarm when I turn the key. I have to unlock the driver's door before turning the ignition key. But when im not quick enough and the alarm sounds, in order to turn the it off, I have to get out and put the key in the driver door and turn it as I would to unlock the door. Unfortunately for my sleeping neighbors, It took me a good 3 or 4 minutes to figure out how to stop it. As for the lights, they go out between 5 and 10 seconds after taking the key out of the ignition. Occasionally they come on for those few seconds when I unlock the driver's door from outside the vehicle. I hope all that makes sense. I've read about this happening to others in a "piloteers" forum but couldn't find a solution.

[@ravraid]

@@lkmsaint Hmm, that sounds strange. I think the "auto lock" feature is when you unlock with the key-fob and then don't enter the car within perhaps a minute, the car will re-lock. I haven't heard of your situation where it locks when you remove the key from the ignition but I see how that would be annoying. It sounds like something isn't working correctly. I would post a detailed question on Piloteers to see what comes back. It is a great community.

[@lkmsaint]

@@ravraid I definitely will do. I've read about lots of different scenarios already. Thanks

[@ravraid]

@@lkmsaint Please post your thread on Piloteers here if you can. My thinking is that we all see the same troubles eventually!

[@jonowens2811]

It worked perfectly I appreciate you man👍🏻

[@terrybaca4095]

Everything was going just like the video. Then the lock cylinder wouldn't come out. Any ideas?

[@ravraid]

Give a read through the comments. Mine came out without trouble but some other folks have commented that the cylinder was sticky. One person wrote that they wiggled it lots with pliers to get it out.

[@terrybaca4095]

Thanks for this and the comments that helped. My teenager may even think I know stuff again.

[@Darkelementsx22]

one question for you. I have 04 honda pilot. key wont turn, i saw another video on here where the guy just replaces the immobolizer. he didnt show us the fix because he was tackling something else but he said if your key doesnt turn all you have to do is replace the immobilzer and reprogram the key. do you believe thats true?

[@ravraid]

I believe there are at least two security measures to this: 1) the key itself needs to match the ignition so that it can turn and start the car and 2) the immobilizer chips in the key and car need to match or the car won't be allowed to start. My problem was with measure 1 and I assume the other person is referring to measure 2.

[@kevinlisenby2380]

So you didn't have to take a pin out in order to remove the key module?

[@ravraid]

Ah, no, I didn't but lots of folks have commented on it (see below). It seems like some have it and some don't but I don't know why. If you happen to have it open and can take photos, could you send them to me? I might be able to update the video or at least the description.

[@alejandromorales5822]

how did you removed the pin to remove the cylinder? you didn't show tat.

[@ravraid]

The only pin I can recall is the one I pushed out to remove the actual key cylinder. The housing for the key cylinder just popped out as shown in video (time 5:32). If you read the comments below, some folks have said that the housing was stuck and they had to jiggle it or pull on it with pliers.

[@lexusgxlife6328]

Great video. Thanks for sharing.

[@EddieNYC02]

Wow 🤩 very interesting 🧐 my Honda CR V has that same issue I’m going to fix myself tomorrow 5/26/2022 thanks 🙏 so much

[@ravraid]

Do review the comments and suggestions from others. Some have reported that they have trouble pulling the key cylinder out though it came out easily for me. Good luck!

[@kensmith8916]

Thanks man fantastic cheap solution

[@thomaskennett3334]

For anyone interested I was able to complete the repair without removing the 4th difficult screw by bending the plastic slighty and pushing it up. I also ran into the cylinder sticking in there due to a large buildup of grease and was able to wiggle it out with slip joint plyers.

[@timstrange2361]

Great video! Shows every step clearly with helpful commentary

[@fpvraver]

Any recommendations or things to watch out for when attempting this? I noticed in your video you didn't show pushing out or punching out the actual pin. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. I have a 2007 Honda pilot. The key wouldn't go in very easily then it went in with some pushing and lubricant. But it will not turn.

[@ravraid]

For me, the trickiest part was the back-side screw I point out. Read through the comments because people have solved that in some other ways that might be easier. The cylinder on mine came out without any effort but it has been sticky for several people so you might need to do some wiggling and/or use WD40 to get it out. Punching the pin out is easy as long as you have something with the correct diameter. Be careful with the wafers and don't get them mixed up. Good luck!

[@kellyproctor8472]

Licenced Locksmith - the #1 cause of this is the key. Due to the design of the key tip wearing it damages the wafers and also can push them out of their spot. Without replacing the key and wafers it WILL fail again . I rebuild these all the time and with a programmed key that is cut to factory key code, and a rewafered cylinder I charge about $500 Canadian.

[@ravraid]

Thanks for the info. Is the Honda design so much different from others? I've never had this problem on other cars or even other Hondas!

[@michaelbleier2467]

I've followed every step and they've all worked. However, the issue I'm running into is the key module isn't coming out. Any suggestions?

[@ravraid]

Another user mentioned that they had trouble removing the key cylinder until they put a flat-bladed screwdriver under the cylinder to gently lift it out

[@michaelbleier2467]

@@ravraid Thanks so much for the reply AND super helpful video. I'll give that a try.

[@lightmobile]

Excellent video!!

[@FeleciaCarter75]

Excellent Video.....✅

[@MrKL83]

I have done everything but the ignition cylinder won't come out

[@ravraid]

Some comments from others have indicated that the cylinder didn't come out as easily as it did for me. Please check through the comments to see if there are any hints. The only suggestion I can make is to perhaps squirt some lube in there and see if it will wiggle free. Perhaps others will also have suggestions.

[@calebwhite1410]

Thank you so much your video was super helpful.

[@cherokeeking6320]

Ive gotten to the part where it's time to take out the key module and I don't know how ..help!!!

[@ravraid]

I had no issue taking out the key cylinder (once I got all the screws out) but other people have commented that they did. Please read through the comments below to see how they dealt with it.

[@Stork553]

Thanks for sharing the video. Key got stuck and couldn't turn the car over or get the key out. Steps worked perfectly to get the cylinder out so I could get the key out key out but now after putting it all back together, when I start the car it will only run for a few seconds and then shut off. Was not a problem before I removed the cylinder and took out all the wafers. Typical, everyone else it worked perfectly but I do it and cause another issue. Anyone have any idea as to why that is happening now?

[@ravraid]

I haven't experienced that but a neighbor replaced the key cylinder on his VW and had a similar problem because the key changed and didn't match the car's code. Assuming you're using all the original parts, the only thing I can imagine is that that security logic (I forget the name) didn't get plugged in completely as you reassembled everything. Or, perhaps a pin got bent on the connector.

[@Stork553]

@@ravraid Thanks for replying. I figured it out. The plastic ring that the bottom green plug goes into. The S9VA part. Cracked when I was removing the key from the cylinder. There is a copper line molded into it that runs through the middle of the circle. So lost the continuity. I believe it's an anti theft feature? Ran to the junkyard today and pulled another one and works now. Parts store does not just carry that part of course, so would have had to buy the whole $325.00 assembly.

[@ravraid]

@@Stork553 Wow, that's great; smart idea to get it from a junked car. I believe that copper line is an antenna that is used to get the code from the key - i.e. security. If the controller/ECU doesn't get the right code from the key, it shuts down the car.

[@rachelnunez8157]

How much does this cost to fix my car is having the same problem

[@ravraid]

Check the comments below. I think someone said they decided to get a locksmith. You could give a locksmith a call and describe the situation, though. I'll bet they see these regularly.

[@kkaround]

very nice and detailed video.

[@moisesissacmijaresromero5232]

Thanks dude it works

[@chrishamilton2678]

Working on this for my son's car however the ignition won't pop out.

[@ravraid]

Take a look at some of the comments. It wasn't an issue for me but other folks have mentioned added work to pull it out and even an additional pin to be removed. I didn't encounter this but I don't know why. You might follow up with a question to some of these comments as these folks might be able to give you the details.

[@ttedomo7638]

I can’t get the key module out

[@ravraid]

Yeah, some other folks said the same thing. I'd suggest reading through the comments as people had various suggestions like using WD-40, wriggling it back and forth with pliers, etc.

[@mistyjett2259]

In the beginning of the video you talked about the shifter being stuck and pushing the lever down to move it. I’ve experienced that issue and was wondering what causes that problem? Do you know what malfunctions for one to have to push the lever down? Thanks

[@ravraid]

If you're referring to the gear shifter not moving then I do know of one other circumstance that has caused that on my Pilot, even when the ignition was on. The issue was the brake light switch was flaky. The brakes must be engaged in order for the gear shifter to be moved out of the Park position. If the brake light switch fails, the gear shifter won't move AND your brake lights won't work. The failure is common on early Pilots. Fortunately, the switch is easy to replace and only costs about $40. There is likely a video on KZbin on it.

[@ambrefoley255]

It could also be the neutral safety switch

[@ahmadalmughrabi2829]

Will this works for odyssey 2007?

[@ravraid]

Not sure. The Pilot and Odyssey are based on the same platform but the Odyssey changed generations in '05. You could take off the trim and see whether the ignition parts look like the Pilot's.

[@officialhoodrich7893]

Can’t get the key module out for some reason

[@ravraid]

It's a pretty common problem though I didn't have it. Check through some of the comments here for ideas. Folks have mentioned WD-40 and lots of jiggling among other things.

[@Ahwits]

Did this. Turns independently but won't turn once I put it back into the assembly. Help 😥

[@ravraid]

Hmm. I don't recall any others commenting on the key not turning once inside. Could something be jammed in the cavity?

[@jameswellborn7242]

I DID EVERYTHING YU SAID, BUT THE TUMBLER WON'T COME OUT. WHAT YOU THINK?

[@ravraid]

This has come up in the comments for some people. Feel free to browse the comments but they've mentioned WD-40 and using needle nose pliers to wiggle, wiggle, wiggle, etc.

[@jameswellborn7242]

@@ravraid THE HIDDEN ROLLPIN. FOUND IT. THANKS

[@ravraid]

@@jameswellborn7242 Hmm. The only roll-pin I saw you can see at time 5:51 in the video. Is that what you're referring to or is there another one? Maybe on a different year of Pilot?

[@jameswellborn7242]

@@ravraid 2004 pilot. its under the tumbler at the end. it prevents the tumbler from sliding out.

[@ravraid]

@@jameswellborn7242 Thanks! 👍

[@lqhc696]

anyone try this on a ridgeline? 07’. interested in any differences, if any

[@brittanilinnarz9710]

-Turns out its electrical of sorts. Upon disconnecting battery and in process of removing airbag-I had to put the key in to try and get the wheel to turn because it had frozen via theft detterent. And I could tell the key fit perfectly, and turned perfectly. After verifying that it would not take the key once the battery was connected, I am just going to leave the key in lol the remote just has a screw i removed so i can always have that.

[@ravraid]

Wow, that is strange - the key would not go in once the battery was connected?

[@ChrisCrowesAbode]

**Edited** I did find there is a cotter pin behind the cylinder, dashboard side (2004 Honda Odyssey w/chip). I'm not in a position to be able to try and drill it out. So I decided to just remove the whole ignition switch. While using a flathead and a hammer to remove the headless bolts, the cotter pin just popped out on its own and the tumbler came out! So for those of you that don't want to drill out the cotter pin, just give it some love taps and it should start working its way out as it's not wedged in there. You can probably put your key in to shift the cylinder to remove pressure off the cotter pin while you give it some love taps. Good luck!

[@ravraid]

Unfortunately, it did for me so I didn't focus on it. If you read through the comments you'll see that it did stick for some other folks too and you'll see what they recommend. I think it mostly involved a bit of WD40 and jiggling or prying with pliers or a screwdriver.

[@ChrisCrowesAbode]

@@ravraid Thanks for replying! At least I know I'm not fighting some hidden pin. Great video by the way!

[@eachcha7666]

Thanks, you saved me hundres. The only thing I notice is that, on my 2008 honda pilot, there is one more pins before you can take it out.

[@ravraid]

Thanks for the info. I'm sure someone with an '08 will appreciate it!

[@ancientdiscoverys]

Can a locksmith do this? My honda is doing this for the past 2 days ?

[@ravraid]

The question is whether they will - i.e. liability and such. The only way to know is to call a few and see what they say. If you do, could you post back here so others can see your comment?

[@peterraynes356]

@@ravraid Had a mobile locksmith come out and he spent a little over an hour disassembling and removing the wafers.Cost me $300 but worth it to me as my '04 Pilot is the best vehicle I've ever owned and it's a lot less troublesome than the new $35000 Pilots.

[@ravraid]

@@peterraynes356 Thanks for the follow up. I wasn't sure they'd do it but $300 seems reasonable for the work involved.

[@zaytheprophet8293]

Everything was good until he took the actual key switch out of its compartment why won’t mine come out as easily as yours did?

[@ravraid]

Please read through the comments as I think other folks also had it stick. Certainly try giggling and twisting anything possible to see if it helps. Spraying some WD-40 around the edge might loosen it up. I don't think I needed to insert the key but that's another possibility.

[@Nix-Travels]

Anyone know how to get mechanism out

[@lgroves336]

Doing this can save BIG bucks. You can remove a few wafers or grind them down smooth when the key is in.

[@ravraid]

Ah, hadn't thought of that - grind down any wafers that stick out from the cylinder

[@Ronniejamesleo]

Im gonna call the locksmith tomorrow. No time to mess with it.

[@tylerminish9026]

How tf does the cylinder slide out??? I've removed all the screws and PCB etc, but the cylinder is stuck af!!!! You kinda skip over the part where it suddenly is in your hand!!

[@ravraid]

For me, it popped out with almost no effort but if you look through the comments, it's been sticky for some people. In their comments, they mention WD-40 and lots of jiggling but read through them. To my knowledge, there is no fastener involved - it's just friction.

[@dee9013]

unless we want more problems than the value of out time attempting to do this just pay to have the key switch replaced

[@chelsearussell5954]

Did you have to turn the key on to remove the switch, no one ever wants to show all the video just cut to the next seen.

[@ravraid]

At time 6:28 I did need to insert the key in order to remove the key cylinder from its housing. The key going in causes the wafers to retract so the cylinder can turn. Prior to that in the process, I didn't need the key in.

[@papodac36]

Can anyone come over and perform this magic on my 2005 Pilot!! I'm good at taking crap apart but sure I wouldn't be able to put back together! I don't want to take to dealer but I'm guessing I would have to take to a locksmith?

[@ravraid]

One of the comments below indicates that a locksmith did this work for $300. If you find a willing locksmith but can afford to have the Pilot unavailable for some time you could try the repair yourself and if it doesn't work out, call in the locksmith.

[@papodac36]

Thanks, hadn't read all the comments and if I could find someone for $300 I would do it.I'm in So.Ca.and probably going to pay upwards of $500 on a 18 year old car with 155k. I just did major svc plus more with independent @ 2K@@ravraid

[@ravraid]

@@papodac36Ditto. I put in about $2k last year at 180k miles but it is still going strong so I'm fine with the investment. Maybe call a couple local shops to see if they have any comments about the key problem? I think it was common on several Honda models in that era so a good shop has probably seen it many times. The beauty of doing it yourself is that others might be hesitant to just remove wafers due to liability.

[@gside98]

Word of warning. Eventually more wafers will fail on you. This is my 3rd (and final) time going in and this time I'm removing all of the wafers.

[@ravraid]

Ah, good point. Mine has snagged lightly a couple times since so I can see it coming.

[@jameswellborn7242]

THANK YOU

[@kjhghhff]

Try forcefully turning the wheel slightly back and forth while turning the key first. Geez

[@MrAvlandrew]

does this work?