What to expect
Acura key jobs vary by year and trim — older models often use a basic transponder chip while newer ones run proximity or push-to-start keyless systems. For luxury trims, OEM-grade blanks are non-negotiable; aftermarket fobs can damage your vehicle's body control module.
When you submit a request, we route it only to a partner equipped for your specific Acura make — not to whichever locksmith answers first.
Typical services
- Lost-keys (no working key)
- Spare key cut + program
- Smart key replacement
- Key fob replacement
- Ignition repair
- Programming only (your blank)
Acura key replacement at a glance
Acura is Honda's luxury division sharing immobilizer architecture. MDX, RDX, TLX anchor U.S. sales per Cox Automotive sales data. The Integra (revived 2023) brings a sport-compact entry. Acura fleet uses three eras inherited from Honda: HITAG-2 (2003-2014), HITAG-Pro (2015-2018), HITAG-AES SmartKey on 2019+.
Typical 2026 pricing runs $275-$600 all-in. A 2017 MDX HITAG-Pro spare runs $245-$325; a 2024 RDX A-Spec SmartKey all-keys-lost runs $445-$600.
Acura inherits Honda's iN PIN requirement for all-keys-lost on 2019+ SmartKey. The NSX (discontinued 2022) is the one exception — different keyless system, dealer-only.
Why Acura keys are different
Acura's architecture mirrors Honda. HITAG-2 / HITAG-Pro / HITAG-AES maps 1:1. Acura SmartKey proximity launched 2009 TL/TSX.
Acura's distinguishing feature: ADS (Acura Driver Selection) memory-key function on MDX/RDX/TLX 2014+. SmartKey fob includes serial-number-paired memory profile (seat/mirror/steering/climate/infotainment). Programming replacement key requires ADS pairing as separate step.
Docs via Honda's Service Express portal with Acura-specific extensions. Acura iN PIN identical to Honda iN PIN — same lookup paths.
The 2023+ Integra sits on Civic platform sharing Civic's HITAG-AES architecture.
Common Acura models we service
- MDX (2001-2026) — Best-selling Acura. 4th-gen (2022+) HITAG-AES SmartKey + ADS memory. Type S adds unique fob trim.
- RDX (2007-2026) — 3rd-gen (2019+) HITAG-AES SmartKey + ADS. A-Spec adds blackout fob trim.
- TLX (2015-2026) — 2nd-gen (2021+) HITAG-AES SmartKey. Type S adds power-trim memory.
- Integra (2023-2026) — Revived nameplate on Civic platform; HITAG-AES SmartKey, no ADS.
- ILX (2013-2022) — Discontinued.
- NSX (2017-2022) — Discontinued; dealer-only keyless system.
What Acura keys cost in 2026
- HITAG-2 transponder spare: $215-$285
- HITAG-Pro transponder spare: $245-$325
- HITAG-AES SmartKey + ADS spare, working master: $295-$405
- HITAG-AES + ADS all keys lost (Acura iN PIN required): $445-$600
- Integra HITAG-AES spare, working master: $275-$365 (no ADS)
- Add for Acura iN PIN acquisition: $35-$85
How CarKeyNation matches you with an Acura specialist
- HITAG-2 / HITAG-Pro — every Acura-capable partner
- HITAG-AES SmartKey + Acura iN PIN path — partners with VIN-PIN calc tools or fast dealer parts-counter contacts
- ADS memory pairing — flagged partners with MDX/RDX/TLX experience
- NSX — dealer-only routing
When the dealer is actually cheaper
1. Acura Care or AcuraLink Care extended warranty.
2. NSX. Dealer-only by architecture.
3. Active recall on AcuraLink or BCM.
Acura key replacement FAQ
How much does an Acura key replacement cost?
A 2019+ Acura MDX, RDX, or TLX HITAG-AES SmartKey spare with working master runs $295-$405; all-keys-lost lands $445-$600. The 2023+ Integra runs lower ($275-$365 spare) because no ADS memory pairing.
Can a locksmith really program an Acura smart key?
Yes — every modern Acura HITAG-AES SmartKey (2019+) with Autel IM608, Smart Pro, or VVDI Key Tool Plus plus a path to the Acura iN PIN. NSX is the one exception.
What if I lost ALL my Acura keys?
All-keys-lost on 2019+ Acura SmartKey requires iN PIN, blade cutting, immobilizer programming, ADS memory pairing. Total 75-100 min.
How long does Acura key programming take on-site?
Spare with working master: 30-50 min including ADS pairing. All-keys-lost: 75-100 min including PIN acquisition.
Industry insight
“Acura is Honda with two extra steps: the iN PIN and the ADS memory pairing. The PIN is the same problem as Honda — get the VIN-derived calc path right and you're a 75-minute job. The ADS is straightforward but easy to skip if you're used to base Civic work. We flag MDX/RDX/TLX intake specifically.”
— Honda/Acura specialty mobile locksmith, 11 years field experience, Boston metro (anonymized)
Frequently asked questions
Answers to what drivers ask most before requesting a specialist.
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