I just bought a 2002 RL. The dealer only gave me a grey key and a keyless remote. I've since learned the grey key is a valet key. He has no other keys. I'd like to get a copy of the key (with transponder) but don't want to pay the dealer big bucks. Am I screwed?

 

If the transponder system works like the one in my '97, the answer is yes, UNLESS you have the magic red key. Without the red key the only way to have new keys made is for an Acura dealer to replace the transponder unit. I recall seeing somewhere that the cost for that was something like $900+.

 

Yeah, the transponders are NOT cheap. It IS for anti-theft purposes afterall.

 

The key should only be between $20-$35....it's about $32 at the dealer I work at..
We have a machine we plug the key into and it "copies" the transponder code to the new key...the parts guys do this..no extra charge..all you need is a key that starts the car..no need to replace anything at all..ask them about the T5 key!! Let me know how this goes..


PS-you do not always need the red key!! trust me...

 

Hey Randy,

Thanks so much. That's exactly what I did yesterday when I learned of this at my local dealership.


Great tip.

 

Glad I could help!