If your Honda Accord’s navigation system is acting up, knowing how to reset it can save you a lot of frustration. This guide will show you How Do You Reset The Navigation System On A Honda Accord with quick and easy steps for various model years.
A simple reboot often fixes frozen screens, incorrect locations, or unresponsive controls. We’ll cover everything from a soft reset to a full factory restore.
How Do You Reset The Navigation System On A Honda Accord
Resetting the system typically involves one of three methods, depending on your problem’s severity. Always start with the simplest option first.
This prevents you from unecessarily losing your saved addresses and settings.
Method 1: The Soft Reset (Reboot)
This is the first and safest step. It’s like restarting your computer and fixes most temporary glitches without deleting any data.
- Start your car, or turn the ignition to the “ON” position (so the dashboard lights up).
- Locate the audio/navigation system power button. It’s usually a physical button labeled “POWER” or with a power symbol.
- Press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds. The screen will go blank and then reboot, showing the Honda or Acura logo.
- Wait for the system to fully restart. This may take a minute or two. Test the navigation to see if it’s working properly.
Method 2: Using the System Settings Menu (Factory Reset)
If a soft reset doesn’t work, a factory reset from the menu might. Warning: This will erase all personal settings and saved data.
- From the navigation map screen, press the “SETTINGS” button (often a hard button or on-screen).
- Navigate to the “System” or “Device” settings menu. The exact wording varies by model year.
- Look for an option labeled “System Reset,” “Factory Reset,” or “Initialize System.”
- You will likely need to enter a security code. The default is often 0000 or 1111. If you changed it and forgot, you’ll need the code from your dealer.
- Confirm that you want to reset. The system will shut down and restart, restoring original factory settings.
Method 3: The Hard Reset (Fuse or Battery Disconnect)
For a completely frozen system that doesn’t respond to any buttons, a hard reset is the final option. This cuts all power to the unit.
Option A: Pulling the Navigation/Audio Fuse
This is the cleaner method. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact fuse location and number.
- Turn the car completely OFF.
- Open the interior fuse box (usually near the driver’s side dashboard or in the footwell).
- Locate and remove the fuse labeled “NAV,” “AUDIO,” or “ACC.” Use the fuse puller tool provided in the box.
- Wait at least 60 seconds to ensure any residual power drains.
- Reinsert the fuse firmly. Start your car and check the navigation system.
Option B: Disconnecting the Car Battery
This resets the entire car’s electronics, including the clock and radio presets. Be sure you have your radio security code if required.
- Turn off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
- Open the hood and locate the battery.
- Using a wrench, loosen the nut on the NEGATIVE (black, “-“) battery terminal.
- Remove the negative cable and secure it away from the battery terminal. Do not disconnect the positive (red) side first.
- Wait for 10-15 minutes. This ensures the system’s memory is fully cleared.
- Reconnect the negative cable and tighten the nut. The navigation system should now perform a full reboot.
Troubleshooting Common Post-Reset Issues
Sometimes, a reset solves one problem but reveals another. Here’s how to handle common follow-up issues.
The Navigation Screen is Black or Blank
After a reset, the screen might be dark. First, check the dashboard control for screen brightness. It might have been turned all the way down accidentally.
If that’s not it, try the soft reset process again. A persistent black screen could indicate a deeper hardware problem.
“Insert Correct Map Disc” or Disc Error Message
Older Accord models use a physical DVD for map data. After a reset, the system may not read the disc properly.
- Eject the map DVD carefully from the slot (usually in the trunk or glove box).
- Inspect the disc for scratches, smudges, or cracks. Clean it gently with a soft, lint-free cloth from the center outward.
- Reinsert the disc slowly and firmly. The system should reload the map data, witch can take several minutes.
GPS “Acquiring Satellites” Takes Forever
After a full reset, the GPS antenna needs to re-establish its location. This process can take up to 10-15 minutes of driving in an open area with a clear view of the sky.
Avoid parking garages or dense urban canyons during this initial acquisition period. If the problem lasts for days, the GPS antenna connection might be loose.
Model-Specific Notes and Variations
The steps can differ slightly depending on your Accord’s generation and trim level. Here are some key points for popular model years.
For 2008-2012 Honda Accords (8th Generation)
These models often have the navigation DVD drive located in the trunk, on the left side behind a panel. The reset button for the navigation computer itself is also sometimes located here—a small pinhole button you can press with a paperclip.
For 2013-2017 Honda Accords (9th Generation)
This generation introduced the “Display Audio” touchscreen system. To reset, you often need to go to Settings > System > Factory Data Reset. The physical power button is usually a hard button below the screen.
For 2018-Present Honda Accords (10th Generation)
Newer models with HondaLink and connected services rely more on software. The reset path is typically Settings > System > Reset Settings. A new feature is the ability to hold down the physical Audio Power + Volume Knob + FF buttons together for 10 seconds to force a reboot.
Preventive Tips to Avoid Frequent Resets
Regular maintenance can keep your nav system running smoothly and reduce the need for resets.
- Keep Software Updated: For newer models, install Honda’s official firmware and map updates when available. They fix known bugs and improve stability.
- Safe Ejection: For disc-based systems, always use the on-screen eject command. Never force the disc out or turn the car off while it’s reading.
- Clean Installations: If you add aftermarket electronics (like a dash cam), ensure they are installed properly without interfering with the factory wiring harness.
- Battery Health: A weak car battery can cause all sorts of electronic gremlins, including navigation faults. Have your battery tested regularly, especially as it ages.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried all reset methods and the problem persists, it’s time to consult a professional. Here are the signs:
- The navigation system repeatedly freezes or resets on its own every few days.
- You hear unusual grinding or clicking noises from the map disc drive (on older models).
- The touchscreen becomes completely unresponsive, or only parts of it work.
- You get a persistent error code that doesn’t clear after a reset. A dealership can read these codes for a precise diagnosis.
Contact your local Honda dealership or a trusted automotive electronics specialist. They have the diagnostic tools and software to properly assess the unit, wheter it needs reprogramming or replacement.
FAQ: Honda Accord Navigation Reset
Q: Will resetting my Honda navigation delete my home address?
A: Yes, a factory reset from the settings menu will erase all saved addresses, previous destinations, and personal preferences. A simple soft reset (reboot) will not.
Q: What is the default security code for the navigation system?
A: It’s often 0000 or 1111. If those don’t work, the original code should be on a card in your owner’s manual pouch. If lost, a Honda dealer can retrieve it using your VIN.
Q: My Accord’s screen is frozen. What’s the fastest fix?
A: The fastest method is usually the soft reset: hold the physical power button for 10+ seconds until it reboots. This works for many touchscreen freezes.
Q: How often should I reset my car’s navigation?
A> You shouldn’t need to reset it regularly. If you find yourself resetting it monthly, there is likely an underlying issue that needs diagnosis, such as a failing battery or software bug.
Q: Can I reset the nav while driving?
A: It is not recommended. The screen going blank can be a distraction. It’s safest to pull over or perform the reset before you start your journey.
Q: After a reset, my maps are outdated. How do I update them?
A: For older models, you must purchase an updated map DVD from Honda. For newer connected models, updates may be available over-the-air or via a USB download from the Honda website.
Q: Does disconnecting the battery harm the car’s computer?
A: No, it’s a safe procedure. It just clears volatile memory. You will, however, lose radio presets and may need to reset your clock and sunroof/auto-window functions (use the manual’s relearn procedure).