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Honda HRV Won’t Start: Lights Flashing

Honda HR-V is a popular car model that has been around for a while. However, some Honda HR-V owners have reported issues with their car not starting and the dashboard lights flickering. This can be a frustrating experience, especially if you need to get somewhere urgently. In this article, we will discuss the possible causes of this problem and how to fix it.

Honda HRV steering wheel and front cabin

One of the most common causes of a Honda HR-V not starting and dashboard lights flickering is a weak battery. A weak battery can cause the electrical connection to the vehicle to be bad, resulting in the flickering lights.

Additionally, you may hear a rapid clicking noise when you try to start the engine. Other possible causes include a loose battery terminal, a defect in the starter, gas pump, or alternator, or an obstructed gas filter.

Why Honda HRV Won’t Start

Honda HRV parked in front of cabin in woods

What Does Flashing Lights Indicate

When the dashboard lights of a Honda HRV start flashing, it indicates that there is a problem with the car’s electrical system. The flashing lights can be a warning sign that the battery is weak, the alternator is not working correctly, or there is an issue with the engine’s starter. The flashing lights may also indicate that there is a problem with the car’s immobilizer system.

Common Reasons for Honda HRV Not Starting

There are several common reasons why a Honda HRV may not start. Some of the most common causes of a Honda HRV not starting are:

  • Weak battery: A weak battery is the leading cause of flickering dashboard lights and no start in Honda HRV. If the battery is weak, you may also hear a rapid clicking noise when you try to start the engine.
  • Loose battery terminal: A loose battery terminal can cause the Honda HRV to have flickering dash lights and a no-start condition. If a terminal is loose, the electrical connection to the vehicle is bad, and the dash lights can flicker without it starting.
  • Dead key fob battery: A dead key fob battery can prevent the engine from starting. If the key fob battery is dead, the car’s immobilizer system will not recognize the key fob, and the engine will not start.
  • Bad alternator: A bad alternator can prevent the battery from charging properly, which can cause the car’s electrical system to fail.
  • Clogged fuel filter: A clogged fuel filter can prevent the engine from getting the fuel it needs to start.
  • Broken starter: A broken starter can prevent the engine from turning over, which can cause the car not to start.

In the next section, we will discuss how to fix the common reasons for a Honda HRV not starting.

How to Fix Honda HRV Not Starting

Honda HRV leather front cabin

If your Honda HRV is not starting and the lights are flashing, it can be a frustrating experience. However, there are a few things you can check to diagnose and fix the problem. Here are some steps to take:

Checking the Battery

One of the most common reasons for a Honda HRV is not starting is a dead battery. To check if the battery is the issue, turn on the headlights. If they are dim or not working, then the battery is likely dead. You can also use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. If it is below 12.6 volts, then the battery needs to be charged or replaced.

Inspecting the Starter Motor

The starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over when you turn the key. If the starter motor is not working, the engine will not start. To check if the starter motor is the issue, try jump-starting the car. If it starts when you jump-start it, then the starter motor is likely the issue. You can also use a multimeter to check the voltage going to the starter motor. If it is not getting the proper voltage, then the starter motor may need to be replaced.

Examining the Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is what sends power to the starter motor when you turn the key. If the ignition switch is not working, the starter motor will not receive power and the engine will not start. To check if the ignition switch is the issue, turn the key to the “on” position and listen for a clicking noise. If you hear the clicking noise, then the ignition switch is likely working. If you do not hear the clicking noise, then the ignition switch may need to be replaced.

Looking at the Fuel Pump

The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. If the fuel pump is not working, the engine will not start. To check if the fuel pump is the issue, turn the key to the “on” position and listen for a humming noise coming from the fuel tank. If you do not hear the humming noise, then the fuel pump may need to be replaced.

KnowMyAuto is the sole owner of this article was published on Oct 9, 2023 and last updated on .

In conclusion, there are a few things you can check to diagnose and fix the issue of a Honda HRV not starting with lights flashing. By checking the battery, starter motor, ignition switch, and fuel pump, you can identify the problem and take the necessary steps to fix it.