My sons 04 Acura RL has been plagued with not starting if a green key is illuminated on the dash. When it does start it can completely die out without warning. A local mechanic stated that the immobilizer unit and immobilizer receiver unit need replaced and the repairs will run $1400! I'm just curious does this sound right? He also stated special software is needed to complete the repairing and it's very expensive. At this point I'm wondering is it worth it for a vehicle with 190,000 miles? The car has been great up to this point. What would you guys do?

 

Is it a first gen or a second gen?

 

First of all, with special function parts like this go to the dealer first to see what you actually need. I bet your local mechanic added the cost of those machines in his price, so if the dealer already has those machines I daresay you won't be charged as much. Additionally, finding an immobilizer from a junkyard car will likely save you quite a bit...just check with your dealer to ensure they can work with such parts, which most can.

04 should be a first gen...2nd gen is 05-12.

 

TBH if its a first gen, I think it might be the main relay. I remember when mine went out, I put a multimeter to the grey connector to see if everything was good and I remember the IMMO light coming on when it was unplugged. Maybe that part of the relay failed? If that is the case, it is a $70 fix.

 

I wanted to give an update to my situation. I had the vehicle taken to a second mechanic for another opinion. It turned out after some investigation that it was the main relay. $175 and the car runs great now. The first mechanics story of needing a "special" program to fix the car was hogwash and he was trying to take me for a ride of $1200. My advice is to make sure you always get a second opinion!!