RSX Key Replacement, San Diego County, Mobile Service

Q: What's the difference in keys between RSX base and Type-S (2002-2006)?

Practically none. We cut and program both versions at the vehicle for $150 to $250, which is roughly half what dealers want. Both use the same standard blade transponder key with an Megamos 13 (ID13) chip and the Honda Immobilizer system. The Type-S sometimes came with a 4-button fob that adds a dedicated trunk button, but the programming process and chip are identical.

Q: Does the 2005-2006 RSX facelift have a different key system?

No. Same transponder chip, same immobilizer, same FCC ID, same programming method as the 2002-2004 models. The facelift brought updated headlights and some trim changes, but Acura did not touch the key system at all. The only minor difference is that 4-button fobs became more common on facelift models. We tackle every RSX year the same way, whether you are in Rancho Bernardo or Oceanside.

2002 - 2006

619 Acura RSX still daily-driven but the only key looks chewed on after twenty years? Marco's van carries the right Megamos for every '02-'06 RSX, 100+ five-star reviews behind it. Book the van today.

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What Changed With the RSX Key Each Generation

DC5 Base and Type-S

2002-2004

You turn this key in the ignition like any other key, but there is an Megamos 13 (ID13) transponder chip hidden inside the head that talks to the Honda Immobilizer system. Both the Base (K20A3) and Type-S (K20A2) use the same 3-button remote head key with FCC ID NHW010010 and a CR1616 battery. Without that chip synced up, the engine will not start. Programming is done on-board with a Honda PIN code, which means we tackle everything right at the car.

DC5 Facelift Base and Type-S

2005-2006

Acura gave the RSX a facelift with updated headlights and the Type-S got the K20Z1 engine for 2006, but the key system stayed identical. Your 2005 or 2006 RSX uses the exact same transponder key and FCC ID NHW010010 as the earlier models. Same Megamos 13 (ID13) chip, same Honda Immobilizer, same on-board programming method. Nothing changed under the hood when it comes to security.

Identify Your RSX Key

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Transponder Remote Head Key (Base)

2002-2004

A standard metal key with a black plastic head that has Lock, Unlock, and Trunk buttons. The transponder chip inside is what lets your car start.

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Transponder Remote Head Key (Type-S)

2002-2004

Identical to the Base model key. Same blade, same chip, same buttons. The Type-S badge on your car does not change what is in your pocket.

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Transponder Remote Head Key (Facelift Base)

2005-2006

Same key as the 2002-2004 models. Acura updated the exterior styling but kept the key system untouched.

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Transponder Remote Head Key (Facelift Type-S)

2005-2006

Again, identical key to every other RSX. If you have a 2006 Type-S, you get the same transponder key as a 2002 Base. Simple.

Cost by Generation

Quoted prices include the blank, cut, programming, and full test at your address. Nothing tacked on at the end.

Key Type

EZ Car Keyz

Acura Dealer

2002-2004 Base

Transponder Remote Head Key

$150-$250

$300-$800

2002-2004 Type-S

Transponder Remote Head Key

$150-$250

$300-$800

2005-2006 Base

Transponder Remote Head Key

$150-$250

$300-$800

2005-2006 Type-S

Transponder Remote Head Key

$150-$250

$300-$800

Acura Key Help -Tap to Call

Why Skip the Dealer

Acura's involvement with the RSX ended years ago. We still have the right equipment in the van for every model year, parked at your car, for about half what any remaining dealer service would quote.

EZ Car Keyz

Acura Dealer

Typical Cost

$150-$250

$300-$800

Location

Your address, parking lot, on the side of the road

Their service bay (tow required if no key)

Wait Time

Often the same day

2-5 business days for key order

Hours

6 AM to 11:30 PM, every day

Weekday service hours only

All Keys Lost?

Handled on-site with PIN retrieval

Tow to dealer, wait for parts, pay for tow

Google Reviews

Over 100 five-star reviews

Varies

Skip the Dealer - Call (619) 876-1271

What Goes Wrong With RSX Keys

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Transponder Failure

RSX hits 20 years of daily use and the cuts on the blade are worn flat. Key turns halfway and stops. Owner assumes immobilizer or ignition cylinder. Actual issue is a worn blade. We cut fresh at the curb from the lock cylinder code, car starts.

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Immobilizer ECU Sync Loss

RSX owners think the key died when it is lost sync between ECU and transponder. Happens after a dead battery, swap, or long period of sitting. Key is fine. We run a relearn with our tools and the RSX starts. Common in Poway with cars that sit through winter.

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Fob Battery Drain

The CR1616 in your RSX remote is small and does not last forever. Internal corrosion speeds it up, especially on the 2005-2006 facelift. We check the battery and contact points first. Sometimes a $5 battery swap is all you need, and we tell you that honestly.

What You Can Program Yourself on a RSX

2002-2006 (All Models)

Yes - DIY Possible

You can program the remote lock and unlock buttons yourself using an ignition on/off sequence repeated three times. But the transponder chip that actually starts the car requires professional tools and a Honda PIN code. The remote buttons are the easy part; the immobilizer programming is where you need us.

How It Works

Acura call for quote in San Diego County

Reach Out by Phone or Text

Reach us at (619) 876-1271. Tell us your RSX year and whether it is a Base or Type-S.

We Roll to the Car

Wherever you are in San Diego County, from El Cajon to Carmel Valley, we come to your location.

Acura key programmed in San Diego County

Cut, Program, and Test

We cut your new key to match your RSX ignition, program the Megamos 13 (ID13) transponder chip using our Autel IM608 or VVDI with the Honda PIN, sync the remote buttons, and hand you a working key.

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Questions We Get About RSX Keys

Can I program a new key fob for my 2002-2006 Acura RSX myself? ▼

The 2004 RSX runs an ID46 (PCF7961) transponder system that the van reads through the OBD-II port. Proof of ownership at the vehicle, registration or title in hand. We originate the transponder, cut the blade to the lock cylinder code, and program everything in the driveway. Acura dealers either decline this job on a twenty-year-old car or quote a tow plus a multi-day appointment. We charge $250-$425 same-day across San Diego County. (619) 876-1271.

What's the difference in keys between RSX base and Type-S (2002-2006)? ▼

My RSX remote buttons don't work but the light comes on-what do I do? ▼

Start with the CR1616 battery, but honestly, on these 2002-2006 fobs the membrane under the buttons wears out over time. If a fresh battery does not fix it, you likely need a replacement remote. We carry compatible fobs and can program them at the vehicle anywhere in San Diego County. Just remember, if you self-program a new remote without all your other remotes present, the missing ones get erased from the system.

Does the 2005-2006 RSX facelift have a different key system? ▼

Call (619) 876-1271

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Trivia Worth Knowing

The RSX replaced the iconic Integra and shared its platform with the Honda Civic, but the RSX was the first Acura to run Honda's K-series engine with i-VTEC. That combination paired variable valve timing with variable valve lift in a single package, a genuine engineering milestone disguised as a sport coupe. The transponder system was straight Honda OBD-II of the era, which is why we can program a 2003 RSX as quickly as we can a same-year Civic Si.

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