Is your aging Honda Accord suffering from erratic door locks? If the locking mechanism is found to be faulty due to a manufacturing defect, a recall may be issued to protect the public.
Were any recalls issued for the Honda Accord door locks?
Nope. However, owners are reporting these problems on older sedans:
- Will not unlock the doors with the use of remote or inside activation switch
- Doors do not lock once the vehicle reaches 15 mph
- Doors relock immediately after unlocking
If you searched for common door problems on the Honda Accord, you may have found that the 2009 Honda CR-V issued a warranty extension for its door latches as the actuator died within a few months or years of purchase.
Also, the 2018 Honda Odyssey had a recall for the latch on the power sliding doors, which could pop open while the minivan is moving. This does not mean that a problem with the door locks on an older Honda Accord is uncommon.
While a door lock problem is not going to be fixed by your Honda dealer for free, let’s check out what should be done to address each of these issues.
Remote and Inside Switch Do Not Unlock Doors
If your remote has fresh batteries and there is resistance when you pull the lock switch in the door handle, you may have a failed door latch assembly in your Honda Accord. The Accord uses a plastic gear and screw mechanism to physically push the lock into place or allow it to unlock.
Over time, the teeth on the gear wear out, requiring replacement of the actuator assembly.
Automatic Locks Do Not Lock Once the Honda Accord Is in Motion
While the actuator or latch assembly may be part of the problem on your sedan, this may also be due to a failure of the speed sensor and onboard computer system. If you have an engine light or other warning light, bring it to a certified mechanic to pull the code and repair the proper part.
Doors Relock Immediately after Unlocking Using Remote or Switch
Included in the actuator and door lock assembly are tiny remote-control receivers and wires that send the command to move the gears to lock the door. If you have an electronic short in the assembly, the doors may constantly try to lock, even when you have your finger on the remote.
How Do I Tell if My Honda Accord Does Have a Recall for its Locks or Other Systems?
When you want to find a complete list of recalls issued for your year and trim level of a Honda Accord, visit NHTSA and enter your car’s info in the Recall Search box. If your vehicle has a faulty part that is covered by the recall, your Honda dealer will fix it at no cost to you.
If you need help finding a repair shop that will handle the recall, give Honda Customer Service a ring at (888) 234-2138.