Dead Key Fob Battery medium urgency

Dead Key Fob Battery on a 2024 Honda Pilot: How to Get In, Start, and Replace It

If your 2024 Honda Pilot key fob suddenly stops unlocking the doors or won’t start the vehicle, the most common cause is a dead fob battery. The good news: you can still get in and start the Pilot using the built-in backup methods, then replace the battery in minutes.

Understanding Your Situation

The key fob’s coin-cell battery has lost charge, so the fob may not transmit a strong enough signal for lock/unlock, remote start, or push-button starting. The vehicle can still recognize the fob at very close range using the emergency start procedure, and you can unlock the door with the hidden mechanical key.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Unlock the driver’s door using the hidden mechanical key stored inside the fob (look for the release and pull the key out; use the key cylinder behind the door-handle cover if equipped).
  2. Start the vehicle using the emergency fob-detection method: hold the fob right next to the START/STOP button and press the brake, then press START/STOP (this allows the car to read the fob even with a weak/dead battery).
  3. Replace the fob battery with a new coin-cell (commonly a CR2032 on many Honda smart fobs—confirm the exact type printed on your old battery or listed in your owner’s manual), then test lock/unlock and starting before you leave.

Your Options

DIY key fob battery replacement (coin-cell)

Cost: $3-$12 Time: Same day

Open the fob case, note the battery orientation (+/-), replace with the same battery type, and reassemble. Test all buttons and proximity functions afterward.

âś“ Pros:
  • Fast and inexpensive
  • No programming required for a simple battery swap
âś— Cons:
  • Risk of damaging the fob case or clips if pried incorrectly
  • Wrong battery type or reversed polarity can cause continued failure

Battery replacement at a parts store (installed for you)

Cost: $0-$20 Time: Same day

Buy the correct coin-cell battery and have a retailer install it (availability varies). You still keep your original fob; no reprogramming is typically needed.

âś“ Pros:
  • Less chance of breaking the fob housing
  • Convenient if you’re not comfortable opening the fob
âś— Cons:
  • Not all stores will open/install smart fobs
  • Quality varies—ensure they match the battery type and orientation

Honda dealer service (diagnose + replace battery)

Cost: $10-$60 Time: Same day

A dealer can replace the battery and confirm the fob and vehicle are communicating normally, checking for other issues (damaged fob, interference, vehicle battery concerns).

âś“ Pros:
  • Professional handling and quick verification
  • Good option if the fob still acts up after a new battery
âś— Cons:
  • Higher cost than DIY
  • May require an appointment depending on location

Replace the key fob (if battery doesn’t fix it)

Cost: $200-$500 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If a new battery doesn’t restore normal operation, the fob may be damaged (water intrusion, cracked circuit board, worn buttons). A replacement fob must be matched and programmed to the vehicle by a dealer or qualified automotive locksmith.

âś“ Pros:
  • Restores reliable operation when the original fob has failed
  • Can add a spare for backup
âś— Cons:
  • Significantly more expensive than a battery
  • Requires programming and proof of ownership

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t force the fob case open with excessive prying—use gentle, even pressure to avoid snapping clips or damaging the circuit board.

✕ Don’t install a different battery type or flip polarity—match the exact coin-cell number and orientation from the old battery/owner’s manual.

✕ Don’t assume it’s only the fob battery if the vehicle won’t start—if the dash is dim or there’s clicking/no power, the vehicle’s 12V battery may be low and needs separate attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start my 2024 Honda Pilot if the key fob battery is dead?

Yes. Use the emergency start method: hold the fob directly against/next to the START/STOP button and press the brake, then press START/STOP. The vehicle can read the fob at close range even if the fob battery is weak or dead.

How do I get into my Pilot if the fob won’t unlock the doors?

Remove the hidden mechanical key from the fob and unlock the driver’s door manually. Some trims have a key cylinder hidden behind a small cover on the door handle—use the mechanical key to access it.

What battery does a 2024 Honda Pilot key fob use?

Many Honda smart key fobs use a CR2032 coin-cell, but you should confirm by checking the battery number printed on your old battery or referencing your owner’s manual for your exact fob.

Do I need to reprogram the key fob after replacing the battery?

Typically, no. A battery replacement does not erase programming. If the fob still doesn’t work after a fresh, correctly installed battery, the fob may be damaged or there may be interference/vehicle-side issues that need diagnosis.

Why does my Pilot say “Keyless Remote Battery Low”?

That warning indicates the coin-cell battery voltage is dropping. Replace the fob battery soon to avoid being locked out or losing remote functions at an inconvenient time.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Moderate urgency: you can usually still unlock and start the vehicle using the mechanical key and emergency start method, but replace the fob battery as soon as practical to avoid being stranded or locked out when you least expect it.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Honda Pilot.

View Pilot Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04