2001 Honda Prelude Base, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Key Interlock System

NOTE: For circuit identification and component locations, see WIRING DIAGRAMS  .
  1. Disconnect steering lock harness connector located behind dash, on lower left side steering column. See KEY INTERLOCK SOLENOID  under COMPONENT TESTS. Connect battery voltage to steering lock harness connector terminal No. 5 (White/Yellow wire) and connect ground to terminal No. 3 (White/Red wire). Turn ignition key to ACC position. Push in on ignition key. A clicking sound should be heard from key interlock solenoid. If key interlock solenoid and switch operates properly, go to next step. If key interlock solenoid or switch does not operate properly, replace ignition key/cylinder lock assembly. See STEERING COLUMN SWITCHES article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT.
  2. Reconnect steering lock harness connector. Disconnect mode switch 8-pin harness connector located below center console. See Fig 1 . Turn ignition switch to ACC position. Check voltage between mode switch harness connector terminal No. 8 (White/Red wire) and ground while pushing in on ignition key. See Fig 2 . If voltage exists, go to next step. If voltage does not exist, repair open in White/Red wire between mode switch harness connector and steering lock connector.
  3. Check for continuity between mode switch harness connector terminal No. 3 (Black/White wire) and ground. If continuity exists, replace mode/parking pin switch assembly. See PARKING PIN SWITCH  under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. If continuity does not exist, repair open in Black/White wire between mode switch harness connector and ground connector.
Fig 1: Exploded View Of Shift Lever Assembly
G00086548Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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