I am looking into getting a remote starter for my wifes 2012 TSX sedan, I have been considering the factory acura remote starter and I am curious as to how hard it is to install. Has anyone ever installed this, is it plug and play, and does it work as good as the aftermarket ones.

 

Dealer has to install Acura one. computer has to be programmed with Acura scanner. Also Canada has remote starter 2nd version which I think is better than the one sold at us Acura dealers.

 

I installed the Advanced Keys system myself with the help of the DIY for the TSX by Mugen that is readily available. You can choose whether to get the push button start or not, but it includes a lot of cool features that you can customize to do things like close all windows when the locks engage or blink lights or turn things on or off. Believe it or not, one of the features I like most (besides the proximity keyless lock) is that I got rid of that huge Acura key fob!

 

Hey Nukebug I was under the impression that the Advanced key system was just as big if not larger than the Acura key fob. Do you happen to have a pic of the Advanced key compared to the reg key fob

 

where did you get this and how hard is it to install

 

I think there are several pics on their website, but it is about an 1/8" thick, about as big as a matchbook, but thinner, so is nice and small in your pocket, but still has buttons for lock/unlock of doors, trunk, and remote start.
Of course, it automatically locks/unlocks as you walk up to it, too.

 

I ordered it direct from their website and then the key bypass from amazon. I got a 'dummy' key from my local dealer for $10. I had a few questions which were promptly answered both on their website and by phone. It took me most of a Saturday. If you are comfortable removing panels from the interior of the car, connecting wires, running a few wires, cutting a few, then it isn't hard. If you can put in a stereo and amplifier without an install kit, then it isn't much different. Mugen wrote a great DIY that I followed, except that I noticed there were a few ways to do it easier, of course it was afterwards!

 

I'm really wanting to do this install. What is the 'dummy' key for??

 

The way that it works is that you no longer use your switchblade key, but instead use the keyless entry RFID fob. IF you choose to also use the pushbutton start, you can bypass using the OEM key for starting/authorizing, but you still need to disable the steering wheel lock. That is where the dummy key comes in. It is permanently inserted into the stock key lock on the steering column and cut off and then covered with a blank. The downside is that you now no longer have a steering wheel lock. The upside is that you have pushbutton start and no switchblade keyfob. The vehicle is still secure in that the module cuts power to start/run unless it detects your RFID, much the same as the original chip in the OEM key. Check out the DIY attached.

 

Looks pretty sweet. Any idea where to put the push start button? I know it's really just personal preference but would like some input.

 

Two things to think about:
1. it is about as big around as a half dollar
2. it is pretty deep

BTW - it is the OEM Toyota/Lexus button, so if you have seen that one, you know what it looks like. The guy at AK will re-wire an Acura OEM button for their kit if you send it to him and ask.

I put mine below the shifter in the console, in front of the drink holder. It is pretty flat there and roomy under it for wires. There is actually a molded in area for something round to the right of the steering column in the silver strip of molding. Unfortunately, you would need to fab a custom piece to match the contours to the switch, and it is hard to see behind the steering wheel. If you don't have the tech package, you could put it below the radio, or even mount it inside the key tray or remove the cigarette plug and put it there. the last two would be hidden by their respective doors.
It could be mounted to the left of the steering where the switch blanks are, but I thought it would look odd.
I am happy with where I put my button, because it has easy access. I have the Tech Package (at least it was techy back in 09 I guess!) so I don't have any flat dash to work with.

 

Are u able to post pics of where you put the start button so I can see how it looks. I was going to get a compustar starter kit but I'm liking this more.

 

Here ya go:

 

no pic nukebug

 

Hmmmmm.... one more time!

 

man i am reading this but its is kind of vague on installing this unit

 

If the instructions seem vague, then I suggest that you have a shop do the install. I found the DIY (along with the instructions included with the unit itself) to be pretty complete. I took my time, read the complete instructions and DIY first, and then spent a whole day Saturday doing the install. After doing it, I think I could do it again in half the time (like most DIY first time stuff).
Any shop or person that can do alarm installs can do this. Check Craigs List for freelancers.

 

any pics? your old ones don't work