Hi everyone! First let me say that I am a new member here and so if this is in the wrong place I apologize!

I just inherited a 1999 Honda Accord LX sedan 5 speed manual transmission. I am very happy with it so far but there are a few minor issues that I would like to look into fixing. I am hoping you all could point me in the right direction! I do not have experience repairing anything in cars, but I am very willing to try. I am a physics major so I've taken electronics so hopefully I am not a complete noob at least with the electrical components ahaha. If anything I mention is do-it-yourselfable for a relative beginner I would prefer to go that route.

The biggest issue is with the driver side exterior lock. When you insert the key, it occasionally does not turn. It sometimes takes 4 or 5 attempts before I can get it to unlock. I suspect that a screw is loose somewhere as the entire lock will wiggle easily if you have the key in and shake it gently (which I do not routinely do haha, but I suspect the past owner may have causing it to become loose). Besides obviously being annoying this is also a potential safety issue so I'm hoping to get this fixed asap.

I want to install remote entry which would in a round about way also solve my problem above (although ideally I want to fix both). I understand that the 99 Accord LX is partially set up for remote entry but some models have it and some don't. What's the best way to do this? Should I take it to Honda or will it be really overpriced? Should I try to get a Honda remote entry system online and install it myself? Have a mechanic install it? Should I get a third party system? Which ones should I look at? I am willing to invest in a reliable system.

The driver side automatic locks do not have any effect on the driver's door or the back right door. I am fairly certain that the passenger side auto locks don't work on these doors either. Any suggestions?

The button for the driver side map light (light next to the sunglasses compartment) is missing. I have done a cursory search for this part, but haven't found anything. I really don't want to replace the whole unit. Is there somewhere to look for a specific and slightly odd part like that?

Edited to add that the light behind the clock is out and I would love to get it fixed because it can be pretty annoying. I believe I have read that this is a pretty common issue.

Sorry for the novel. Let me know if there is any other information that I should post. Thanks so much everyone!

 

[quote=knico;286667]The biggest issue is with the driver side exterior lock. When you insert the key, it occasionally does not turn. It sometimes takes 4 or 5 attempts before I can get it to unlock. I suspect that a screw is loose somewhere as the entire lock will wiggle easily if you have the key in and shake it gently (which I do not routinely do haha, but I suspect the past owner may have causing it to become loose). Besides obviously being annoying this is also a potential safety issue so I'm hoping to get this fixed asap.

1. You can remove the door panel and check to see if the retainer clip is on. Retainer clip is at section 20-12 of excerpts of service manual for door at this link, which includes door panel removal:
http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/at...6&d=1279562640


I want to install remote entry which would in a round about way also solve my problem above (although ideally I want to fix both). I understand that the 99 Accord LX is partially set up for remote entry but some models have it and some don't. What's the best way to do this? Should I take it to Honda or will it be really overpriced? Should I try to get a Honda remote entry system online and install it myself? Have a mechanic install it? Should I get a third party system? Which ones should I look at? I am willing to invest in a reliable system.

2. You can add the remote keyless entry for the LX. Not cheap, at HandA Accessories, $155.26 plus shipping (which is already discounted). Other Honda dealer sell it too. Installation instructions are here for your viewing pleasure.
http://www.handa-accessories.com/acc...ordkeyless.pdf

Programming instructions here:
http://www.tegger.com/hondafaq/misc/98-011.pdf


The driver side automatic locks do not have any effect on the driver's door or the back right door. I am fairly certain that the passenger side auto locks don't work on these doors either. Any suggestions?

3. Based on owner's manual front doors master lock should lock and unlock all doors. See attached pics for owner's manual excerpts.


The button for the driver side map light (light next to the sunglasses compartment) is missing. I have done a cursory search for this part, but haven't found anything. I really don't want to replace the whole unit. Is there somewhere to look for a specific and slightly odd part like that?

4. Salvage yard or ebay are your best bet.


Edited to add that the light behind the clock is out and I would love to get it fixed because it can be pretty annoying. I believe I have read that this is a pretty common issue.

5. Yes, see links:
http://www.tegger.com/hondafaq/tsb/accord/x01-097e.pdf
01 Accord Clock Bulb Replacement

 

Dang.......thank you Redbull-1.

OP- the only thing I might add is that car-part dot com is a good resourse for "used" parts.....