TextHow the Acura RL Key System Changed Over the Years
1st Gen (KA9): Transponder Key
A standard blade transponder key with a Megamos 13 (ID13) chip embedded in the head. No remote buttons on the key itself, just a physical key you turn in the ignition. The Honda immobilizer reads the chip before it lets the engine start, so a plain metal copy from the hardware store will not work.
2nd Gen (PB6): Remote Head Key
A remote head key with a high security blade, Megamos 13 (ID13) chip, and 3 buttons built right into the key. Acura stepped things up here with OBD-II programming and a Honda PIN code requirement, which means professional tools are needed. The blade is laser cut, so it requires a precision cutter to duplicate.
2nd Gen Facelift (PB7): Smart Proximity Key
This is where things went keyless. Your 2009 to 2012 RL uses a smart proximity key with push button start, an ID46 (PCF7952) chip, and 3 buttons. You keep it in your pocket and the car detects it through antennas in the door handles. Programming requires OBD-II access and an ECU sync, so this one is strictly a professional job.
Which Key Does Your Acura RL Use?
A traditional metal key with a hidden chip inside. No buttons, no battery to worry about. You just insert it and turn.
Your lock, unlock, and trunk buttons are built into the key head. The blade is laser cut, so it needs a specialized cutter to duplicate.
A slim fob that stays in your pocket. Push button start, keyless entry. There is a hidden emergency blade inside for dead battery situations.
The Real Cost of an Acura RL Key
Every price includes the key blank, precision cutting, transponder programming, and ECU sync where required.
EZ Car Keyz vs. the Dealer
Lost all your keys? The dealer needs a tow. We just need your address.
Skip the Dealer - Call (805) 790-8162Common Acura RL Key Problems
Transponder Failure (1996-2004)
Key turns in the ignition but the engine cranks and dies, or will not start at all. The Megamos 13 transponder inside the key head degrades over time, especially on high-mileage RLs. We read the immobilizer, confirm, and program a new key on the spot.
Key Fob Battery Drain (2005-2008)
The CR1616 in your remote head key is tiny and drains fast if buttons get pressed in your pocket. Before assuming the key is broken, pop the battery and replace it. If the remote still does not respond, the internal board may need attention.
Proximity Sensor Issues (2009-2012)
First check on a 2009-2012 RL that will not detect the smart key: antenna in the door handle. These pick up your fob's signal and fail more often than the key. We test the antenna first; a $400 fob over a $60 antenna is a waste.
High Security Blade Wear (2005-2012)
People think the ignition is going when the key gets hard to turn. Usually it is the blade. High security laser cut blades on 2005-and-newer RLs wear at the contact points, and a worn blade damages the ignition wafers. We cut fresh to factory spec.
Can You Program an Acura RL Key Yourself?
You can pair a keyless entry remote yourself using the ignition cycle method with one working key. But the transponder chip in the key itself requires professional programming. So you can DIY the lock and unlock buttons, but not the part that actually starts the car.
Same deal as the first gen. You can pair remotes at home with a working key and the ignition cycle procedure. Transponder programming still requires OBD-II access with professional tools and a Honda PIN code.
Remote pairing is possible with a working key using the ignition cycle method. The proximity system and transponder chip require professional ECU sync, so the push to start function cannot be self-programmed.
No self-programming at all on the 2012 RL. Both the remote and transponder require professional tools. Call us at (805) 790-8162 and we handle it on-site.
How It Works
Call or Text Us
Reach us at (805) 790-8162.
We Drive to You
Wherever you are in Ventura County, from Oxnard to Simi Valley, we come to your location.
Cut, Program, and Test
We cut your key to factory spec, pull the Honda PIN code, program the ID47 transponder to your immobilizer, and test everything before we leave.
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Did You Know?
The Acura RL was originally meant to replace the Legend. Enthusiasts nicknamed the RL "Replaces Legend" because of the timing and positioning of the model. Acura never confirmed the acronym, but the name stuck in car forums for years.
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See an Acura Key Cut Live
Watch our tech program an Acura proximity fob on site.
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