How Much Is an Ignition Switch for a Honda Accord?

Expect to pay roughly $30–$180 for the electrical ignition switch on most older, keyed Honda Accords; $60–$300 for a keyed ignition lock cylinder with keys; $180–$600 for a complete keyed ignition assembly; and $90–$250 for a push‑button start/stop switch on newer Accords. Installed, the total typically runs $200–$800 depending on model year, part type (OEM vs. aftermarket), and local labor rates. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you budget accurately and choose the right part.

Price Overview: Parts Only

The term “ignition switch” can refer to different components depending on the Accord’s year and whether it uses a traditional key or a push-button system. Here’s how parts-only prices usually shake out in 2025.

• Electrical ignition switch (keyed models, rear of cylinder): about $30–$90 aftermarket; $90–$180 OEM.
• Ignition lock cylinder with keys (mechanical tumbler): about $60–$160 aftermarket; $150–$300 OEM. Rekeyed-to-match kits can cost more.
• Complete keyed ignition assembly (housing + cylinder + switch): about $180–$400 aftermarket; $300–$600 OEM.
• Push-button start/stop switch module (keyless models): about $90–$250, typically OEM or OEM-equivalent.

Prices vary by generation and trim, and OEM parts generally cost more but match factory specifications and often include better warranties.

Total Installed Cost (Parts + Labor)

Labor time and programming needs influence the out-the-door price. Independent shops usually charge less than dealerships; locksmiths can be the most cost-effective for keyed systems with immobilizer programming.

• Electrical ignition switch (keyed): 0.7–1.1 labor hours; typical total $200–$450 installed.
• Ignition lock cylinder (keyed): 1.0–1.5 hours plus key cutting/programming; typical total $250–$600 installed.
• Complete keyed ignition assembly: 1.5–2.0 hours plus programming; typical total $350–$800 installed.
• Push-button start/stop switch (keyless): 0.4–1.0 hours; typical total $180–$450 installed.

Labor rates in 2025 commonly range from $90–$150/hr at independent shops and $130–$200/hr at dealerships. Immobilizer/key programming can add $80–$200 depending on equipment and region.

Typical Price by Accord Generation

Your model year strongly determines both the component type and the cost. The following ranges reflect common retail pricing for the most likely part in each era.

• 1994–1997 (5th gen, keyed): Electrical switch $30–$120; cylinder $60–$220.
• 1998–2002 (6th gen, keyed): Electrical switch $35–$140; cylinder $80–$240; complete assembly up to $450.
• 2003–2007 (7th gen, keyed with immobilizer): Electrical switch $40–$150; cylinder $120–$280 (plus key programming).
• 2008–2012 (8th gen, keyed with immobilizer): Electrical switch $50–$160; cylinder $140–$300.
• 2013–2017 (9th gen, mixed—some trims keyless): Keyed trims similar to 2008–2012; push-button switch $100–$220.
• 2018–2022 (10th gen, push-button standard): Start/stop switch $120–$240.
• 2023–2025 (11th gen, push-button standard): Start/stop switch $130–$250.

Use your VIN to confirm whether your specific Accord uses a keyed ignition or a push-button module, as trims within a generation can differ.

What Drives the Price

Several factors cause the wide range in ignition switch pricing and installation totals.

• Part type: electrical switch vs. mechanical cylinder vs. complete assembly vs. push-button module.
• OEM vs. aftermarket: OEM costs more but may offer superior fit and warranty.
• Immobilizer requirements: newer keyed systems need key cutting and transponder programming.
• Labor time: steering column trim removal, security screws, and rekeying add time.
• Model year/trim: late-model, push-button systems generally use more expensive modules.
• Regional labor rates and shop type: dealer vs. independent vs. mobile locksmith.

Balancing OEM quality with a trusted installer often yields the best long-term outcome, especially for security-critical components.

Parts Options and Where to Buy

Accord owners can source parts from multiple reputable channels; choose based on warranty, availability, and whether you need rekeying to match your existing keys.

• Dealership parts counters: OEM components, VIN-verified fit, strong warranties, higher price.
• National auto parts retailers: aftermarket and some OEM; convenient returns; competitive pricing.
• Online OEM wholesalers: genuine parts at discounted prices; shipping times vary.
• Professional locksmiths: can supply cylinders keyed to your car and program keys on-site.

If you need your new cylinder to work with your current key, ask about rekeyed-to-match options, which can reduce hassle and avoid carrying multiple keys.

Symptoms and When Replacement Makes Sense

Before buying, confirm the ignition switch is the culprit. Similar symptoms can stem from batteries, keys, or the starter circuit.

• Electrical switch failure (keyed): intermittent stalling, accessories cutting out, no-crank/no-start with normal dash lights.
• Lock cylinder wear: key won’t turn, requires jiggling, or sticks in ACC/ON.
• Push-button issues: button doesn’t respond, erratic accessory/ignition states, errors like “Keyless Start System Problem.”
• Not the switch: weak 12V battery, bad starter/relay, worn key fob battery, brake/shift interlock switch faults.

A quick diagnosis—checking battery health, fuses/relays, key condition, and scanning for body/immobilizer codes—can prevent unnecessary parts purchases.

Recall and Warranty Notes

Some late-1990s and early-2000s Accords were subject to ignition switch-related recalls addressing electrical contact wear that could cause stalling. Many vehicles are already remedied, but it’s wise to check your VIN.

• Use the NHTSA VIN lookup or contact a Honda dealer to see if you have any open ignition-related recalls.
• New OEM parts typically carry a 12-month warranty; dealer-installed parts may receive additional labor coverage.

If a recall is still open for your Accord, the repair may be performed at no charge by a Honda dealer, which can significantly reduce your cost.

How to Save Without Cutting Corners

You can often reduce your total by shopping smart and planning the install.

• Compare OEM vs. high-quality aftermarket pricing and warranties.
• Get quotes from a dealer, independent shop, and a mobile locksmith (for keyed models).
• Bundle services: if replacing a cylinder, have extra keys cut/programmed at the same visit.
• Verify the exact part number by VIN to avoid returns and delays.

Balancing part quality with a competitively priced installer generally yields the best reliability and value.

Bottom Line

For a Honda Accord, expect parts costs of roughly $30–$180 for the electrical switch, $60–$300 for a keyed lock cylinder, $180–$600 for a complete keyed assembly, or $90–$250 for a push-button switch. Installed, most owners spend $200–$800 depending on year, trim, and local labor rates. Confirm your part type by VIN, consider OEM for critical components, and compare quotes from a dealer, independent shop, and locksmith to get the best price.

Summary

Ignition switch pricing for Honda Accords varies by generation and part type: older keyed cars typically need an electrical switch or lock cylinder ($30–$300 parts), while newer models use a push-button module ($90–$250). Including labor and any key/immobilizer programming, total installed costs usually fall between $200 and $800. Verify fitment by VIN, check for recalls, and compare OEM vs. aftermarket and installer quotes to optimize cost and reliability.

How to know if a Honda ignition switch is bad?

A bad ignition switch will have problems with starting the engine, keeping it running, or engaging other systems when the key is turned. You might also have issues turning the key.

How much does it cost to replace the ignition switch on a Honda Accord?

The average cost for a Honda Accord Ignition Switch Replacement is between $184 and $260.

Can I still drive with a bad ignition switch?

No, in fact a faulty ignition switch would not allow the car to crank and start and driving with it it not possible.

Is it expensive to replace an ignition switch?

Replacing a vehicle’s ignition switch generally costs around $200 . The amount can be cheaper or pricier (up to $500 or more) depending on your vehicle and ignition system, the specific part needing replacement and whether you hire a professional or repair it yourself.