Acura Key Fob Programming
None of the 73 Acura model years we cover can be programmed at home, including the MDX, TL and TSX. Some Honda remotes can be done by cycling the ignition, but every Acura key and remote here needs a locksmith or dealer. The battery varies more than you'd expect. We see the CR1616, CR2025, CR2032 and CR1620, and 10 model years use a plain chip key with no battery. Check your year before you buy.
Choose your Acura model for programming steps, the battery it uses, and the correct replacement fob with FCC ID and part number — 73 model years across 10 models.
- CL 1998–2004
- Integra 2000–2001
- MDX 2001–2013
- NSX 1997–2004
- RDX 2007–2012
- RL 2001–2004
- RSX 2002–2006
- TL 2002–2014
- TSX 2004–2014
- ZDX 2010–2013
A brass dot marks models with verified replacement-fob data (FCC ID + part number).
Can you program an Acura key fob yourself?
Not at home. None of the 73 model years we cover has an owner programming procedure, so every Acura fob and key has to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer with a diagnostic tool. The model pages still list the exact replacement fob and battery for each year.
What battery does an Acura key fob take?
Mostly the CR1616, which covers 25 of 73 model years. Acura also uses the CR2025, CR2032 and CR1620, so check your model and year before you buy. A plain chip key has no battery at all.
| Battery | Model years | Models |
|---|---|---|
| CR1616 battery on Amazon | 25 | MDX (2007–2013); NSX (2003–2004); RDX (2007–2012); TL (2004–2008); TSX (2004–2008) |
| CR2025 battery on Amazon | 21 | CL (1998–2003); Integra (2000); MDX (2001–2006); RL (2001); RSX (2002–2006); TL (2002–2003) |
| CR2032 battery on Amazon | 11 | CL (2004); TL (2009–2014); ZDX (2010–2013) |
| None (chip key) | 10 | Integra (2001); NSX (1997–2002); RL (2002–2004) |
| CR1620 battery on Amazon | 6 | TSX (2009–2014) |
Acura key types
The replacement keys we've matched to Acura models fall into 4 types. A model year can take more than one, which is why the model pages list each option with its FCC ID.
- Transponder Key 1997–2014
- A cut metal key with a chip in the head. No buttons.
- Remote 1998–2008
- A separate key fob that only handles locking and unlocking.
- Remote Head Key 2007–2014
- One piece: a cut metal blade with the lock/unlock buttons built into the head.
- Proximity Key 2009–2014
- Stays in your pocket — the car unlocks and starts without inserting a key.
What Acura key programming costs
US price ranges for the key types above, with a working key on hand. Losing every key costs more, $200–$500 at a locksmith for a basic fob or transponder key.
| Key | Locksmith | Dealer |
|---|---|---|
| Basic remote, working key on hand | $50–$150 | $100–$250 |
| Transponder or remote-head key | $75–$200 | $150–$350 |
| Smart / push-to-start key | $150–$400 | $250–$600 |
Full breakdown and sources: key fob programming cost .
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