Acura Key Fob and Car Key Programming

How Acura car keys and key fobs are programmed, by model year, what you can sometimes do yourself, and when a mobile automotive locksmith is the faster, safer choice. Dealerkeys programs Acura keys on site across East Tennessee.

Acura key programming by model year

Acura uses a different key system for older and newer vehicles. Find your vehicle below.

Acura 1998–2006

May be self-programmed (older system) Models: Integra, RSX, TL, TSX

Method: On-Board Self-Programming

  1. Close all doors.
  2. Turn ignition switch to ON (II).
  3. Within 1 to 4 seconds, press LOCK or UNLOCK on the remote.
  4. Within 1 to 4 seconds, turn ignition switch to OFF.
  5. Within 1 to 4 seconds, turn ignition switch to ON (II).
  6. Within 1 to 4 seconds, press LOCK or UNLOCK on the remote (doors cycle).
  7. Press LOCK or UNLOCK again within 1 second to confirm.
  8. Turn ignition OFF and remove key.

Note: Max 3-4 remotes can be programmed. Erases previous remotes when entering programming mode.

Acura 2007 and newer

Locksmith required Models: MDX, RDX, TL, RL, ILX, NSX

Method: OBD2 / Locksmith Required

Requires specialized diagnostic programmer (Autel, Xhorse, MVP Pro) plugged into OBD2 port to add transponder/smart keys and fob remotes.

Note: Push-to-start and high-security laser cut key systems require security PIN/immobilizer reset.

This guide is general information. Procedures vary by model, trim and equipment, and a wrong attempt can leave a vehicle unable to accept new keys. Call or text with the year, make and model, and we will tell you what yours needs.

Can you program a Acura key fob yourself?

Some older Acura models (Integra, RSX, TL, TSX, 1998–2006) list an on-board method above. Even where one exists, it usually needs a working key or remote to start it, it differs by model and trim, and it often programs the remote only, not a chip key. Newer Acura vehicles, and any key whose chip the car must recognize, need a diagnostic programming tool.

Lost all your Acura keys?

Dealerkeys is a mobile automotive locksmith with more than 26 years of experience and over 150,000 vehicles serviced across East Tennessee. For an all-keys-lost Acura, we pick the lock if needed, make a new key, and program it at your vehicle. We quote the price first, and we make a key only after you show ID and proof of ownership. See our dead key fob guide if the car just will not start with your fob, or mail-in module repair for BCM, ECU and TIPM trouble.

What to have ready when you call

The year, make and model of the vehicle, the VIN if you can read it through the windshield, and where the vehicle is parked. Tell us how many keys you have left, if any, and what kind of key you want. Plan to be with the vehicle, with your ID and registration, title or other proof of ownership.

Acura key questions

Can I program a Acura key fob myself?

Some older Acura models (Integra, RSX, TL, TSX, 1998–2006) list an on-board method above. Even where one exists, it usually needs a working key or remote to start it, it differs by model and trim, and it often programs the remote only, not a chip key. Newer Acura vehicles, and any key whose chip the car must recognize, need a diagnostic programming tool.

What if I lost all my Acura keys?

We come to you, open the vehicle if it is locked, make a new key for your Acura and program it on site, so there is no tow to a dealer. You need to be with the vehicle, with ID and proof of ownership.

How much does a Acura key replacement cost?

It depends on the model, the year and the type of key. Call or text with the year, make and model, and we quote the price before any work begins.

Acura locksmith service across East Tennessee

We dispatch to your vehicle in these areas and the towns around them:

Call or text Dealerkeys

Dispatch — Knoxville area
(865) 405-5359
Dispatch — Chattanooga area
(423) 250-5397

Programming guides for other makes

CallAreaRepair Shop