There are so many things to love about being an Acura car owner, but we can bet that navigating Acura key replacement isn’t one of them. Maybe you’ve called around only to find out that the dealership is charging an exorbitant price for a new key fob. Or, maybe you learned that your trusted local mechanic doesn’t work with your make and model.
Here at Red Key LLC, we’ve worked with Acura owners around Buffalo NY who just want to get back on the road without having to deal with a surprise bill or extra complications. In this article, we’ll talk about the ins and outs of car key replacement and what you can expect when you need a new fob for your Acura.
There is no universal Acura key replacement process
As a leading luxury car manufacturer, Acura keeps up with the trends in auto security by continually upgrading their key and fob designs. This means that the kind of key replacement you need will depend on the age and model of your car. Here’s a general breakdown:
Pre-2000s Acuras
Acura was founded in the 1980s, during which time, cars used mechanical keys. In fact, Acura continued using purely mechanical keys throughout the 80s and 90s, even as other manufacturers started transitioning to transponder chip keys. One exception to this would be the Acura NSX, which transitioned to transponder keys, such as the HD106PT, as early as 1996.
This is good news for anyone looking to replace keys for their pre-2000s Acura: it means that replacement is simple and affordable. We just have to order the correct mechanical key for your model, cut it to your car’s keyway, and you’ll be on your way. No special programming necessary.
That being said, if you’re worried about your mechanical keys being lost or stolen, we may suggest rekeying so that your car can only be opened and started by the new key set.
The 2000s to the mid 2010s
Around 2001, transponder keys became standard for all Acura models, which required new keys to be programmed to the car’s immobilizer system. An example of these transponder keys included the HD111PT which covers Acura TL, TSX, and RSX up to around 2010.
The transponder key-only phase was relatively short with Acura; by 2004, many models were using keyless remote fobs, at least for locking and unlocking the car. These remotes also had immobilizer chips in them that would need to be programmed to the car.
Over the next few years, various additional key models were introduced, such as the MLBHLIK-1T flip key for the Acura TSX between 2009 and 2014, each with a higher level of security than the last. Whereas the first transponder chip key had a basic code that it signaled to the immobilizer system, these new models use rolling codes or a more advanced coding system to communicate with the car’s operating system.
Modern Acura models
Within the last ten years, Acura has made the transition from keyed entry to keyless functionality. Using a proximity fob, you can unlock/lock and start/turn off the ignition. The fob does technically have a mechanical key housed within the plastic casing, but it’s not necessary for everyday use.
An example of this key model includes the A2C32522800, which is compatible with the Acura ILX, TLX, and RLX between 2015 to 2020.
Programming these kinds of fobs requires a more involved process than the transponder key. Your auto technician will need to hook up their programming machine to your car’s operating system to be able to add the new key and retire any lost or stolen keys.
Wondering what blank key model you need? Leave the ordering up to a pro!
As you can see, there are many options when it comes to Acura key replacement, and ordering the wrong blank key online is a common mistake! Instead of trying to save a little bit of money by sourcing your own blank key or fob, leave it up to us! We often already have the spare part in our inventory, or if not, we can find it online for the best price and from a reputable seller.
There is no DIY option for Acura key replacement (in most cases)
There are plenty of videos out there claiming that you can order and program a new key or fob to your car without the help of a technician. But, this is only applicable for a small number of Acura models that use transponder fobs. Even in these cases, DIY programming isn’t reliable and can leave you with issues with your immobilizer system.
As for the Acura models that don’t use these basic transponder chip technology (i.e. everything made after the early 2000s), you’ll need to rely on a professional for reprogramming. Or, more accurately said, you’ll need to rely on a profession with the specific equipment, relevant software, and experience working with Acura keys and fobs. If you’ve been frustrated to find out that your local mechanic can’t help you, it’s likely that they said no because there’s no universal software package that covers all makes and models. As such, some individual businesses choose to buy the software for American-made cars, European-made cars, or Asian-made cars, based on their typical clientele.
Make Red Key LLC your first call
Given that not every auto technician has access to the tools or software to replace Acura keys, you might feel that the only option is to call your local dealership. But, there are a few reasons why an auto locksmith can be a better alternative:
- We’ll come to you. No need to have your Acura towed to the mechanic or dealership for key programming. We’ll bring the equipment to you!
- We’ll work around your schedule. Unlike your local dealership or mechanic, our hours revolve around when you need us! We offer key replacement outside of normal business hours as well as on weekends and holidays.
- We offer competitive pricing. Many car owners are shocked to learn that working with an auto locksmith is often the most affordable option compared to the dealership and local mechanic. Give us a call for a quote for your Acura key replacement!
Our mobile team at Red Key LLC is here for Acura owners throughout the Buffalo NY area. Whether you drive an Acura Integra in West Seneca or an ADX in Kenmore, we’ll be on the way to offer fast, affordable Acura key replacement.
