We just bought a '21 RDX PMC edition. It only had one remote with it. Can factory ones be bought and programmed on your own or is this strictly a dealer task?

 

Buying and programming are separate tasks.

You can buy from any dealer or 3rd party (eg: ebay) if you trust them.

Programming has to be done by someone with Honda software and key security license. All Honda & Acura dealers and a very small number of certified locksmiths would have purchased this license.

Usually after calling around, getting both done at a dealer ends up being the best option as it is hard to coordinate/find separate steps for cheaper.

 

Just curious. How much did that cost?

 

A few years agp I dealt with an online source for a replacement fob for a Lincoln. These things are expensive but the place has OEM fobs for your Acura for about $66. What was nice for the Lincoln is they also have a network of “professional” installers that have the equipment to do the programming. That cost me as best I recall, another $50. So for about $100 (three years ago) I had a replacement fob. The dealer at the time was about $250.

For the website where I got my fob, see 2021 Acura RDX fobs. If you buy one check to see if you need driver 1 or driveer 2; Look for a number on the existing fob. And also, when you get it programmed, verify everything (hatch, seat programming, etc. works.

 

If you buy from Acura directly might as well get the fob that has remote start! Unless the fob you have now already has it (its a PMC so maybe?)

Did you get it private party or from a dealer? I would have tried to get them to throw it in with the deal.

 

Good point on the remote start, after all the OP said it was a PMC edition.

 

dreamshop.acura.com shows the remote start as dealer-accessory only (not preinstalled) for the 21 PMC. That site will also give you a part and install quote (includes two new fobs + programming) for most dealers - mine is a bit over $700.

I never lost a fob but on forums see the all in price ranging from $300-$700. Given the added convenience of remote start, I'd agree that's a great alternative than just buying a single fob. Unless this accessory was already installed by the original owner (eg: does your fob have the black "engine hold" button on the top)?