Auto Keys
Acura Key Replacement, Key Fob Programming & Smart Key Service
Acura shares Honda's HD106, HO01, and HO03 keyways and smart-key technology; we cut and program Acura keys and fobs at your location across Palm Beach County.
Acura is Honda's premium line and shares the same key platform, including the HD106, HO01, and HO03 keyways and the same transponder and proximity smart-key technology. The year and ignition type decide whether your Acura needs a transponder key, a remote head key, or a push-to-start smart fob.
Our mobile techs cut and program keys for the Acura lineup most common in Palm Beach County, including the MDX, RDX, and TLX. We carry the blanks and programming tools in the van, confirm whether your Acura is turn-key or push-to-start, and finish most jobs curbside in one visit.
Acura key types by generation
Acura keys changed significantly from one era to the next. The right blank, chip, and programming path depend on the year, trim, and ignition type, which is why we ask for the details before selecting a key.
Older models: HD106 and HO01 keyways
Earlier Acura models share Honda's HD106 and HO01 keyways with transponder chips. The blade fits the door and ignition, but the engine starts only when the chip is matched to the immobilizer.
Transition era: HO01 remote head keys
Mid-era Acura models used HO01 remote head keys that combine the cut blade with lock and unlock buttons, sharing the Honda MLBHLIK6-1T family. Confirm the exact fob from the original key or VIN.
2016 to present: HO03 smart keys
Modern push-to-start Acura models use the high-security HO03 keyway with proximity smart keys (FCC KR5V41X on MDX, RDX, and TLX) that carry an emergency blade inside. Lost smart keys are programmed to the specific vehicle.
Acura key data by model
Verified blank, chip, and FCC references are marked accordingly. Where a value depends on trim, button count, or production date, confirm it from the original key, a VIN lookup, or a supplier catalog before cutting or ordering.
Data is drawn from professional locksmith key references. It is a starting point for identification, not a guarantee for your specific vehicle.
Acura MDX Key Replacement
The MDX is Acura's three-row SUV and one of the most common Acuras we make keys for. Older models share Honda's HO01 platform, while newer push-to-start trims use HO03 proximity smart keys.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007-2013 | Remote head / transponder key | HO01 keyway | Transponder | Shares Honda MLBHLIK6-1T era; confirm from original key or VIN | OBD programming | Service key | Confirm with original fob |
| 2014-2015 | Smart key (proximity) by trim | HO03 emergency blade | Smart key | Confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | Proximity or OBD programming | Emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2016-2025 | Smart key (proximity) | HO03 emergency blade | Smart key | FCC KR5V41X | Proximity programming | Emergency blade | Verified from source data |
Acura RDX Key Replacement
The RDX is Acura's compact SUV. Older models share the Honda HO01 platform, and newer push-to-start trims use HO03 proximity smart keys.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007-2013 | Remote head / transponder key | HO01 keyway | Transponder | Shares Honda MLBHLIK6-1T era; confirm from original key or VIN | OBD programming | Service key | Confirm with original fob |
| 2014-2015 | Smart key (proximity) by trim | HO03 emergency blade | Smart key | Confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | Proximity or OBD programming | Emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2016-2025 | Smart key (proximity) | HO03 emergency blade | Smart key | FCC KR5V41X | Proximity programming | Emergency blade | Verified from source data |
Acura TLX Key Replacement
The TLX is Acura's mid-size sedan and uses HO03 proximity smart keys across its run. Confirm the exact fob by VIN for the earliest model years.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2015 | Smart key (proximity) | HO03 emergency blade | Smart key | Confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | Proximity programming | Emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2016-2025 | Smart key (proximity) | HO03 emergency blade | Smart key | FCC KR5V41X | Proximity programming | Emergency blade | Verified from source data |
- •Earlier TLX model years can carry a slightly different smart-key part number; bring the original fob so we match the correct one.
Common Acura key problems
- •Smart keys that fail after water exposure following beach and boat days.
- •Dead smart-key coin batteries mistaken for a failed fob.
- •All-keys-lost situations on push-to-start models that require programming to the vehicle.
- •Worn HO01 blades on older models that turn the ignition but no longer reliably start the engine.
- •Remote head keys where the buttons stop working but the blade still turns the lock.
Acura programming notes
- •Adding a spare while you still have a working key is faster and cheaper than an all-keys-lost job.
- •Smart keys are programmed to one specific Acura and cannot be reused on another vehicle.
- •Acura shares the Honda key platform, so we confirm the exact fob by VIN before ordering or cutting.
- •A no-start with a good battery is often the chip or immobilizer, not the engine, and the key may need reprogramming.
What to have ready before service
Sending these details when you call (561) 839-9919 lets us bring the right blank and programming tools on the first trip so your Acura job is done in one visit.
Real Acura locksmith scenarios
These are the Acura situations we actually get called for in Palm Beach County, with the technician's read on each one: what is happening, whether a mobile locksmith can solve it, and what the job typically involves. They are educational examples, not testimonials.
Ignition cylinder will not turn on an older Acura
The key goes into the ignition but will not rotate, or it sticks and binds before reaching start.
Likely causes
- •Worn ignition lock cylinder, shared with the Honda platform on older models.
- •A worn key blade no longer aligning the wafers.
- •Steering lock binding against the cylinder.
Programming
Only if a new key is required
Ignition repair
Often required
Key replacement
Frequently paired with cylinder work
Complexity
Moderate
Common repair options
- •Cut a new key to the door lock or VIN code rather than copying a worn key.
- •Repair or replace the ignition cylinder if it is the fault.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We diagnose whether it is the key or the cylinder and cut a fresh key to code or repair the ignition as needed.
Immobilizer light blinking, engine cranks but will not start
The engine turns over but never catches, and the security light blinks on the dash.
Likely causes
- •The transponder in the key is not being read by the immobilizer.
- •A failed or damaged chip, or a key that was never fully programmed.
Programming
Usually required
Ignition repair
Only if the lock or reader is also faulty
Key replacement
Often
Complexity
Moderate
Common repair options
- •Reprogram the existing key if the chip is intact.
- •Cut and program a new transponder key if the chip has failed.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We confirm whether the key is being read and reprogram or replace it so the immobilizer recognizes it.
Push-to-start Acura shows no key detected
An MDX, RDX, or TLX shows a no key detected message even with the smart key in the cabin.
Likely causes
- •Dead or weak coin battery in the smart key.
- •Failed or water-damaged smart key.
- •All smart keys lost so none can be detected.
Programming
Required for a new smart key
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the smart key has failed
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Replace the coin battery and retest before ordering a key.
- •Program a new smart key and cut the HO03 emergency blade.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We test the smart key, replace the coin battery, or program a new proximity key if it has failed.
Smart key not detected after a dead coin battery
The push-to-start Acura suddenly will not detect the key, often right after a low-battery warning.
Likely causes
- •Dead coin battery inside the smart key.
- •Owner mistaking a flat battery for a failed fob.
Programming
Not required for a battery swap
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Not required if only the battery is flat
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Replace the coin battery and retest the proximity function.
- •Use the emergency start position if you are stranded.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We test the smart key and replace the coin battery, then confirm it is the battery and not a deeper fault.
Water-damaged smart key after a beach or boat day
The smart key got wet on the water or at the beach and now works intermittently or not at all.
Likely causes
- •Salt water or moisture corroding the smart-key board.
- •Swollen or shorted coin battery.
Programming
Required for the replacement
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Usually required
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Program a new smart key and cut the HO03 emergency blade.
- •Keep a dry spare for boating and beach days.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. A corroded smart key is usually replaced and programmed rather than repaired.
Lost all keys on an Acura
Every key is gone and there is no working key to copy from.
Likely causes
- •All keys lost or stolen.
- •Only one key ever existed and it failed.
Programming
Required
Ignition repair
Not required unless the lock is damaged
Key replacement
Required
Complexity
Moderate to advanced
Common repair options
- •Cut and program a new transponder key or smart key from scratch.
- •Add a spare at the same visit so you are never locked out again.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We generate and program a new key or smart key from the vehicle, which takes longer than adding a spare because the key is built to the car from scratch.
Spare key while you still have a working one
You only have one key and want a backup before something happens to it.
Likely causes
- •Single key from a used purchase.
- •A lost spare that was never replaced.
Programming
Required to pair the spare
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Adding a spare
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Cut and program a duplicate transponder key or smart key.
- •Store the spare somewhere safe and off the daily keyring.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. Adding a spare while you still have a working key is the fastest and cheapest key job there is.
Remote buttons stopped working but the key still starts
Lock and unlock from an older remote head key stopped responding, though the blade still starts the car.
Likely causes
- •Dead remote battery.
- •Worn buttons or a cracked remote board.
Programming
Only if a new remote is supplied
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the remote board has failed
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Replace the remote battery first as the cheapest fix.
- •Program a new remote head key if the board is damaged.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We replace the battery or supply and program a new remote head key.
Broken emergency blade inside a smart key
The hidden emergency blade inside the smart key has bent or snapped, so you cannot unlock the door manually if the battery dies.
Likely causes
- •Blade stressed during a manual unlock.
- •Worn or damaged emergency insert.
Programming
Not required for the blade alone
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Emergency blade only, unless the fob also failed
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Cut a replacement HO03 emergency blade to code.
- •Replace the whole smart key if the electronics are also failing.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We cut a new HO03 emergency blade to your code and fit it into the smart key.
Worn key blade that starts intermittently
On an older Acura the key turns the ignition but sometimes the engine will not start until you jiggle the key.
Likely causes
- •Worn HO01 blade no longer aligning the wafers reliably.
- •Weak or failing transponder chip.
Programming
Required for a new key
Ignition repair
Only if the cylinder is also worn
Key replacement
Recommended
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Cut a new key to code rather than copying the worn one.
- •Inspect the ignition cylinder for wear at the same visit.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We cut a fresh key to code and program a new chip so starting is reliable again.
Smart key unlocks the doors but will not start the car
The smart key still locks and unlocks the doors, but the Acura will not detect it to start.
Likely causes
- •Weak coin battery that still drives the remote buttons but not the proximity function.
- •Partial smart-key failure or antenna fault.
Programming
Required for a replacement smart key
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the smart key has partly failed
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Replace the coin battery first as the cheapest fix.
- •Program a new smart key if the original has failed.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We confirm whether it is the smart key or the vehicle and program a replacement if needed.
Used Acura that came with only one key
You bought a used MDX, RDX, or TLX and it came with a single key and no spare.
Likely causes
- •Previous owner kept or lost the second key.
- •Only one key was ever supplied.
Programming
Required to pair the spare
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Adding a spare
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Add a programmed spare while the original key still works.
- •Confirm the year and ignition type so we bring the correct key.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. With one working key we can quickly cut and program a spare so you are not left with a single point of failure.
Acura Key & Fob FAQs
Can you replace an Acura key if I lost all of them?
Yes. We program a new key or smart key to your vehicle on site. All-keys-lost jobs on push-to-start models take a little longer because the key is programmed directly to the car.
Do you program Acura smart keys (push-to-start)?
Yes. We supply and program proximity smart keys such as the KR5V41X used on the MDX, RDX, and TLX and cut the HO03 emergency blade inside.
My Acura key turns but won't start. What's wrong?
The transponder in the key has to match the immobilizer. If the blade is fine but the engine won't start, the chip may have failed and the key needs reprogramming or replacement.
Is my Acura turn-key or push-to-start?
Both exist across the years. If you insert and twist a key it is turn-key; if you press a button it is a smart key. Tell us which so we bring the correct key.
How much is a replacement Acura key?
It depends on whether it is a transponder key, a remote head key, or a smart key, plus the year. We quote an up-front price before we head out.
Can you cut a spare Acura key from my working one?
Yes. A spare made from a working key is the cheapest insurance against a future lockout, and we cut and program it on the spot.
Do you come to my home or workplace?
Yes. We are fully mobile and service Acuras wherever they are parked across Palm Beach County.
Why is my Acura smart key not detected?
It is often a dead coin battery rather than a failed fob. We can test it, replace the battery, or program a new smart key if needed.
Does Acura share keys with Honda?
Acura is Honda's premium line and uses the same key platform, including the HD106, HO01, and HO03 keyways. We confirm the exact fob by VIN before ordering.
What do you need to make an Acura key?
The year, model, VIN, whether it is turn-key or push-to-start, and proof of ownership. A photo of your current key helps us match it.
Other makes we cut & program keys for
Understand your Acura key before you call
Plain-English guides from our locksmiths on how Acura keys, fobs, and immobilizers actually work, so you know what you are dealing with.
Acura keys near you
We bring Acura key cutting and programming to your door across Palm Beach County.
Locked Out? We're on the Way.
Don't wait around. Our mobile technicians are stationed throughout West Palm Beach ready to dispatch to your location immediately.