Hi guys, I have the 2016 MDX and my driver 1 key fob is acting, it looks like the faulty contact or something in this nature. I have to hit it or shake it to get it working in order to open the doors or start the car.
Checked with the local dealer and they are asking $350 CAN for the key fob plus another $100 to program it - OUCH!!!
I still have my Driver 2 fob in a brand new condition- it has never been used before, so I’m using it as a back up for now but that screws all my vehicle settings incl radio stations etc etc etc….
So what are my options here? Finding the used one? But then with the currency conversion plus idiotic amount for shipping from the US it pretty close to the price of the new one here in Canada…
Can the vehicle get started without the key fob? Just by the key that is inside the key fob? My buddy’s Mercedes can be started that way if key fob dies…

 

I would set my Driver 2 fob to my Driver 1 settings for now. Looks like your only option is to replace the Driver 1 fob. You might even check into added OEM remote start and that would give you two remote start fobs along with the original Driver 2 fob as back-up. Remote start kits for 2016 MDX are around $305 USD depending on Acura parts website.

 

My 2016 did come with the remote starter, that’s one of the reasons why this bloody fob is so expensive! I am going to set me fob 2 for the fob 1 settings for now but I’m afraid to have only one working fob now. What if something goes wrong with it or I lose it and then I won’t be able to drive the vehicle…..

 

You might have to check with Honda or look local for a place that can re-program OEM key fobs. I imagine you can find a new or used replacement fob on-line cheaper and a local shop to reprogram for much lower price than Acura.

 

Before junking the fob, open it up, remove the battery and check the terminals. One terminal should be spring loaded. Gently pry it up a little. Also using a q-tip and some alcohol carefully clean the terminals. Also wipe both sides of the battery. I know on my old hearing aids sometimes the new battery wont work until I clean both sides of the sticky residue left over from the package.

 

I was going to suggest this too. I had a fob the only worked intermittently until I opened it up and cleaned and reset the battery. It then worked great again.

 

Thank you guys, I did everything you suggested and it is working again! Woohoo!

 

I make it a habit of opening up all my key fob every 2-3 years to replace fresh batteries and blow out any dust. Never any issues with any of my keys.

 

Late to the party.. so I had the same key fob issue, I had to shake it like crazy and half the time it did not work, couldn't turn it on remotely. Was worry about not being able to warm up the car during winter.. I bought ikea button batteries and was changing them once a week, I thought something was draining or shorting the battery. So before I head to the dealer and complain, I bought the energizer lithium, pack of 6 was like 4.5 off amazon. Swap the battery out, no prob for over 3 months.. Crazy.. quality battery matters.. the energizer wasn't that much more.. I just got lazy and didn't order it

 

non functioning fob will still let you start the car. Even with the battery out of the fob. Just put the fob up next to the start button and push the start button. Some cars like some mercedes and subaru's have a "hidden" key slot to start the car if the fob doesn't work. Many have just gone to the Fob next to the start button. There is a RFID chip in the fob. Once it is close enough to the start button, car will start and run. Normally the Fob sends and RF signal to the start button so the RFID chip doesn't need to be so close. Key is just there to let you unlock the door and glovebox if the fob isn't working.

BTW dig out the owners manual and go through the section on the fob (well glance through the entire manual) . It outlines all this and more about the car and how stuff works and what you can set and do.

 

Better than alcohol, use a solution of water and baking soda. This will remove much better any gunk left by leaking batteries

 

Is there any sort of precaution that needs to be taken with this solution? Any areas to avoid?

 

I just bought a used 2016 MDX. After reading this thread I may swap in some new batteries just to be safe. I

 

This helped! cleaning the inside did the trick for me as well.