I can't get the housing around the lighter to come off so I can get to guts of the lighter to unplug it. Do I have to take the whole center console off?

I am not sure what you are asking?

If you just want to unplug your lighter then yes take the console off should be 1 plug on the end of the lighter housing. Tape the end of it as it will be hot with the ignation turned on.

If the lighter is stuck then with the console of it should be some sort of spring retating mechansim holding it squeeze and the whole lighter housing should pop right out.

I have never worked on a accord but this is what I have found on other vechicles.