New key, engine cranks, won't start

Honda Accord 2006. The battery died on the remote. When I tried to replace it, I couldn't get the screw loose that holds the clam shell together, so drilled it out. Got a new clam shell with blank key, took it to a hardware store and got the key cut.

* New key: the engine turns over but the green key icon flashes and the engine won't start.

* Old key: the engine turns over and starts.

So ... is there something about the car security that the new key fails to satisfy? I don't see anything that looks like a chip but it might be buried in the plastic I suppose.

Honda uses an immobilizer system with the factory key. If you use a key that isn't programmed it will not start. You have to have the key programmed in to make it to be seen by the immobilizer module as a legitimate key to start the engine.

I called my local dealership's parts dept, discussed the history (had to drill out the screw, got a blank online, had a hardware store cut it). The person I talked to explained about the chip and told me how to pry it out of the old key. And, offered to do it for me if I brought it in.

So that's what I did. They were very nice about it and took care of me promptly at no charge. Altogether I spent about $35 ($10 for the blank, $25 for the cutting). I also came with a second remote and they loosened the screw so that I could replace the battery without ruining the housing.

Thanks for all the help!

--Bill