The steering lock and the key shutter (a cover over the key slot) are two built-in theft deterrents on Honda scooters. This guide explains how to use them according to the Honda Vision (NSC110CBF) owner’s manual published by Honda Vietnam. The manual splits the scooter into Type V (mechanical key) and Type II V, III V (Smart Key); the steps can differ on other models, so check the manual of the bike you ride.
Quick answer: how do you lock a Honda scooter when parked?
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- Stop the engine and put the scooter on its stand on firm ground.
- Turn the handlebar fully to the left (or to either side when locking the steering).
- Push the key in and turn it to Lock; if the lock does not engage fully, move the handlebar slightly.
- Remove the key (Type V), then close the key shutter to cover the key slot.
- Lock the wheel as well with a U-lock or similar, as the manual recommends.
Ignition switch positions
The ignition switch turns the electrical system on and off, locks the steering and operates the seat opener:
| Position | Type V (mechanical key) | Type II V, III V (Smart Key) |
|---|---|---|
| On | Turns on the electrical system to start and ride | Turns on the electrical system to start and ride |
| Off | Stops the engine; key can be removed | Stops the engine |
| Lock | Locks the steering; key can be removed | Locks the steering |
| SEAT | Operates the seat opener | Operates the seat opener switch |
On Type II V and III V, the ignition knob must first be unlocked with the Smart Key; see how to use a Honda Smart Key scooter.
Before you lock: park correctly
- Stop the engine.
- Use a stand: with the side stand, push it down and slowly lean the scooter to the left until its weight rests on the stand; for the centre stand, see how to use a motorcycle centre stand.
- Turn the handlebar fully to the left. The manual notes that turning it to the right reduces stability and may cause the scooter to fall when parked on the side stand.
- Lock the steering and the key slot as described below.
How to lock the steering
- Turn the handlebar fully to the left or right.
- Type V: push the key down and turn the ignition switch to Lock. Type II V, III V: push the ignition knob down and turn it to Lock.
- If the lock does not engage fully, move the handlebar slightly.
- Type V: remove the key. Type II V, III V: lock the ignition knob as described in the Smart Key instructions.
How to unlock the steering
To unlock the steering: on Type V, insert the key, push it in and turn it to Off; on Type II V and III V, push the ignition knob in and turn it to Off once the ignition knob has been unlocked. On Type V, the key can be removed in the Off or Lock position; after unlocking, check that the handlebar turns freely to both sides before riding.
The key shutter on Type V
The Type V ignition switch has a key shutter. The manual recommends closing it after parking to help prevent theft.
- Closing: remove the key from the ignition switch; fit the lugs on the shutter key into the grooves on the key shutter and turn it anticlockwise. You can also close it by moving the knob upwards without using the shutter key.
- Opening: fit the lugs on the shutter key into the grooves and turn it clockwise.
- The shutter key is the part with lugs that fits the shutter; when renting, ask to be shown where it is and how to open the shutter.
Extra security and tips for rental scooters
- Lock the wheel: the manual recommends a U-lock or similar device; see the options in disc locks, chains and helmet locks.
- Do not leave the key under the seat: be careful not to lock the key inside the storage box when you close the seat.
- If you lose the key: see losing the key to a rental motorbike.
If you rent from Mr Tú – Old Quarter Motorbike Rental, try locking and unlocking the steering and closing the key shutter as soon as you collect the scooter; the other checks are in the motorbike pickup checklist.
FAQ: steering lock and key shutter
Why will the key not turn to Lock?
The handlebar must be turned fully to one side and the key pushed down before turning. If the lock does not engage fully, the manual says to move the handlebar slightly.
Which way should the handlebar point when parking?
According to the Honda Vision manual, turn it fully to the left; turning it to the right reduces stability and may cause the scooter to fall.
How do I open and close the key shutter on a Honda?
On Type V, fit the lugs of the shutter key into the grooves: turn anticlockwise to close and clockwise to open. You can also close it by pushing the knob upwards without the key.
Is the steering lock enough to prevent theft?
The manual recommends locking the steering when parked and also using a U-lock or similar device on a wheel, so combining both layers of protection is the safer choice.
Sources: Honda Vietnam – Vision NSC110CBF owner’s manual (Ignition switch; Steering lock; Key shutter; Motorcycle safety: parking). Checked on 13/11/2026.
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