This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition switch assembly on a 2018-2024 Honda Accord with 1.5L turbocharged engine, including steering column access and electrical disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Ensure ignition is in OFF position and key/fob is removed from vehicle
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal using 10mm wrench
4. Wait minimum 3 minutes for SRS system capacitor discharge
5. Adjust steering wheel to lowest and most extended position for access
6. Remove driver's side lower dash panel and knee bolster for steering column access

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Remove the Phillips screws securing the upper and lower steering column covers. There are typically 4 screws total. Carefully separate the two halves of the column cover and remove them, being mindful of any wire clips or retainers attached to the cover sections.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Disconnect steering column electrical connectors
   Locate the main wiring harness connectors on the steering column. Depress the locking tabs and disconnect the multifunction switch connector, combination switch connector, and any other connectors that will interfere with ignition switch access. Label connectors if necessary for reassembly reference.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires; always disconnect by gripping the connector body and releasing the locking tab
3. 3

   Remove steering column bracket bolts if required
   Depending on access requirements, you may need to loosen (but not remove) the steering column mounting bracket bolts to lower the column slightly for better access to the ignition switch. Use 10mm socket to loosen the bracket bolts just enough to provide clearance.
   ⚠Support steering column if loosening mounting bolts to prevent column from dropping suddenly
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts19 Nm (14 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector
   Locate the ignition switch electrical connector on the right side of the steering column near the lock cylinder. Depress the connector locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight away from the switch body. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
   ℹ️Take a photo of connector orientation before removal for reference during reinstallation
5. 5

   Remove ignition switch mounting screws
   Using a Phillips #2 screwdriver, remove the two mounting screws that secure the ignition switch to the steering column lock housing. These screws are typically located on the side of the lock cylinder assembly. Keep screws in a safe location for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove ignition switch assembly
   Carefully slide the ignition switch assembly away from the lock cylinder housing. The switch may have alignment pins or tabs that need to be disengaged. Note the orientation of the switch and any alignment features for proper installation of the new switch.
   ⚠Do not force the switch; ensure all mounting screws are removed and check for any hidden retaining clips
7. 7

   Prepare new ignition switch
   Remove the new ignition switch from packaging and compare it to the old switch to verify correct part. Check that all alignment pins and connector terminals are intact and undamaged. If equipped with a positioning tab or lock mechanism, ensure it is in the OFF position to match the lock cylinder.
   ℹ️New switch must be aligned to OFF position to properly mate with lock cylinder actuator
8. 8

   Install new ignition switch
   Align the new ignition switch with the lock cylinder housing, ensuring alignment pins or tabs engage properly. Slide the switch into position until it seats completely against the housing. Verify the switch actuator properly engages with the lock cylinder mechanism.
   ⚠Switch must be fully seated or mounting screws will not align; do not force screws to thread if misaligned
9. 9

   Install ignition switch mounting screws
   Install the two mounting screws by hand first to ensure proper thread engagement. Once both screws are started, use a torque wrench and Phillips bit to tighten the screws to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the switch.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect ignition switch electrical connector
    Align and reconnect the ignition switch electrical connector to the switch body. Push firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely latched.
    ℹ️Ensure connector is fully seated; partial connection will cause starting system malfunction
11. 11

    Retighten steering column bracket if loosened
    If steering column bracket bolts were loosened in Step 3, ensure the column is properly positioned and aligned, then torque the bracket bolts to specification. Verify steering column is secure and does not have excessive play.
    Torque spec

    Bracket Bolts19 Nm (14 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect steering column electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors that were disconnected in Step 2, ensuring each connector locks securely in place. Route wiring to avoid pinch points between column covers or moving components.
    ⚠Verify no wires will be pinched when column covers are reinstalled
13. 13

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the lower and upper steering column covers, ensuring all wire harness clips and any trim pieces are properly seated. Install and torque the cover screws to specification, working in a cross pattern to ensure even clamping pressure.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Reinstall lower dash panels and reconnect battery
    Reinstall the knee bolster and lower dash panel removed during preparation. Ensure all clips and fasteners are secure. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to 10 Nm (8 lb-ft).
    ℹ️Windows and sunroof may need to be re-initialized after battery reconnection

Reassembly

1. All panels and covers should be reinstalled in reverse order of removal
2. Ensure no loose tools or parts remain in steering column area
3. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and latched

Verification

• Turn ignition to ACC position and verify accessory functions operate (radio, power windows)
• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine and verify all warning lights illuminate then extinguish normally
• Start the engine and verify normal starting operation without hesitation or error codes
• Verify steering lock engages when key is removed and steering wheel cannot turn
• Check that key or fob can be removed only when transmission is in Park position
• Test all steering column controls (turn signals, wipers, cruise) for proper operation
• Use OBD-II scanner to check for any ignition system or immobilizer-related diagnostic trouble codes
• Reset radio stations and clock as needed

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