2013 Honda Accord smart key indicator light
I am having the same problem with a '13 6mt. The smart key indicator light in the cluster will often come on while the engine is running and then go out at random times. It happens whether driving or parked. I cannot determine if the intermittent problem is within the key itself, the relay box, or some other electrical component. I took the car to the dealer yesterday but they said they could not find a problem and that Honda is not aware of this problem. They said the technician was aware of what the online forums say and was willing to order a relay box, but the service advisor declined that option stating they need proof or else they risk not getting reimbursed by Honda for the warranty work. They said they would not replace the parts, including the relay box, without definitive evidence that it was the problem and everything they saw looked good. Apparently the wires were all connected and made good contact. I do not know if the car will not restart at times when the light is on or if it is just an indicator light problem and nothing more. I am waiting to find a solution.
Incidentally, the service advisor "pleaded the 5th" regarding Honda quality lately. He stated there was a time when Honda did its own thing regardless of other manufacturers and they were known for quality, but now the market has become highly competitive and Honda is trying to offer as many bells and whistles as quickly as possible at the expense of reliability. He cited the radio problem as an example. Customers were complaining that their radios would freeze, but Honda did not acknowledge the problem and dealers would send people away without a repair. Later, Honda released a "firmware update" out of the blue to fix problems with the radio.
