Reversed polarity on battery install, will not start?

2006 HONDA PILOT
193,000 MILES • 3.5L • V6 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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ROBACARR
Hi, rushing and exhausted. Accidentally reversed the polarity when installing the battery. First clue was the horn blaring. Tried a few times to connect it. Discovered the issue and installed correctly. Now nothing works. Tried to start it. Nothing, not even the dash lighting up. What can I do to "fix" this issue? Or is it a lost cause?
Jan 22, 2025 at 8:59 AM
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ROBACARR
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Update: I blew the 120 A fuse, so I replaced it. I also blew a 20A fuse that handles the clock and radio. Replaced that as well. At this point, I think everything is in working order. What else should I consider checking before to give me peace of mind, if anything?
Jan 23, 2025 at 11:10 AM
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STRAILER
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Good find, I would drive the car and make sure everything works and that you have no warning lights on, if it seems okay, you should be good to go.

Please go over this guide as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/resolving-reverse-battery-connection-in-cars-a-step-by-step-repair-guide

Let us know if you need anything else.
Jan 23, 2025 at 11:32 AM
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ROBACARR
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Hi Ken L.

After a few days, I haven't noticed any issues with the vehicles functioning or operation. I did note however that there appears to be some melting or burning as noted in my photo. I don't know for sure if that was there before this incident or not, but it doesn't appear (yet) to be causing any sorts of issues. Anything I should be concerned about or replace?
Jan 27, 2025 at 6:44 AM
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STRAILER
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I can't tell if that is burnt or how bad the damage is, can you upload it and get a close-up image? Also, get wiring as well.
Jan 27, 2025 at 9:49 AM
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ROBACARR
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Hi Ken,

Sorry I didn't have access to the Pilot for a few weeks as it was undergoing some body work after I was rear ended. I attempted to take several photos that I hope will help.
Feb 10, 2025 at 12:43 PM
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STRAILER
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I still cannot tell if it has melted, sorry, sometimes the wiring just looks like that, can you unplug the connector to get a closer look, also does anything seem normal other than that?
Feb 11, 2025 at 9:43 AM
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ROBACARR
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As far as I can tell, everything seems normal. If memory serves, I didn't see a way to unplug the connector, but I can take another look.
Feb 11, 2025 at 1:43 PM
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STRAILER
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If you can get a closer shot in focus I can see better, sorry.
Feb 12, 2025 at 9:09 AM
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