I had remote start installed on my 2017 RDX (Base model) at the Acura dealership this past week. When I went to pick it up, they told me that the Remote Start FOB could not be used for the push button start, and therefore I would have to carry the original FOB in addition to the Remote Start FOB to drive the vehicle. In addition, the engine turns off when the doors are unlocked or opened after it is started remotely. From what I have read, this was a issue in pre-2016 models only, but was fixed in 2016 and later models... Is it possible that the issue was not directed in the base model for some reason?

I am super frustrated that the dealership didn't bother to mention that I would need to carry 2 FOBs to use the remote start before installing it. When I brought this up, the service manager said that his technicians didn't realize that was the case because they are used to working on non-base models, which use a newer remote start system that isn't compatible with the base model. He also noted that his tech didn't even realize it was a different system until the remote start kit arrived at the dealership. I asked why they didn't let me know at that point (before installing it for nearly $700), and was told it was "an oversight."

I am now trying to decide whether to have the dealership remove the system and give me a refund, or keep it and take the 2 free oil changes they are offering for the inconvenience... Thoughts?

 

I also have a 2017 RDX Base model with remote start and it works the same as you described. I bought it used with the remote start already installed. I owned a Hyundai with remote start before the RDX and it had only one remote for both functions and the car did not shut off when you unlock/open the doors. I very rarely use the remote start specifically because of the inconvenience.

My thoughts on your decision to keep or return the remote start depends on how important it is to you to warm/cool your car remotely. Since you live in NM, I'm assuming you will be using it more for cooling the car than warming it up.

 

How big is that remotes start fob? It would be like putting remote start on a car before 2010 or so. You'd have to have a fob just for the remote start. But the current car fob is humongous already. At least my 2017 primary fob is. Like red said, it all depends on how much you want that convenience.

 

Too late for the OP. But others can go aftermarket like Compustar (which also has a fob which gives you their state 3000 ft to 3 mile range depending on the remote kit chosen). However, you don't have to use their remotes if you wanted to only carry the OEM fob (you will lose the range advertised, but you can still use your OEM fob exclusively to actuate the remote start (hit lock 3x) and ditch the Compustar remote if so desired. I have them on two of my vehicles and they work great. Installation is fairly easy now without having to splice wire connections. They make a vehicle manufacturer specific "T-Harness" kit which now makes these connections plug and play with existing OEM wiring and connectors.