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Need a Spare Key for Your 2024 Acura RDX? Here Are Your Best Options (US)

Adding a spare key for your 2024 Acura RDX is one of the easiest ways to avoid a costly lockout or tow later. The RDX uses a modern smart key fob that typically requires programming, so planning ahead can save time and money.

Understanding Your Situation

You still have at least one working key, but you want an additional spare fob (and emergency key blade) for backup, a second driver, or peace of mind before the remaining key is lost or damaged.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm what you currently have: count working fobs, locate the emergency key blade, and write down your VIN.
  2. Check your owner’s manual/app for key/remote features (smart entry, remote start) so you replace like-for-like.
  3. Call 2–3 sources (Acura dealer and a reputable automotive locksmith) and ask for an all-in price including cutting and programming.

Your Options

Acura Dealer (OEM smart key + programming)

Cost: $250-$550 Time: Same day to 1-3 days (if ordered)

The dealer supplies an OEM Acura smart key fob, cuts the emergency key blade, and programs the fob to your RDX using factory tools. They can also verify key compatibility by VIN.

âś“ Pros:
  • Highest compatibility confidence (OEM parts matched by VIN)
  • Programming is straightforward with factory equipment
  • Good choice if you want full feature support and warranty-backed parts
âś— Cons:
  • Often the most expensive route
  • May require appointment and/or ordering the fob

Mobile Automotive Locksmith (aftermarket or OEM fob + programming)

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day (if in stock)

A licensed automotive locksmith comes to you, provides a compatible smart key (often aftermarket, sometimes OEM), cuts the emergency blade, and programs the fob on-site.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient—service at your home or workplace
  • Can be less expensive than the dealer
  • Often faster if the dealer needs to order parts
âś— Cons:
  • Quality varies—aftermarket fobs may have shorter lifespan or feature differences
  • Not every locksmith can program late-model Acura smart keys; verify capability first

Buy a fob online, then pay for cutting + programming

Cost: $120-$450 (combined) Time: 2-7 days (shipping + appointment)

You purchase a compatible smart key fob online and then hire a dealer or locksmith to cut the emergency blade and program it to the vehicle.

âś“ Pros:
  • Potentially lowest parts cost if you source a good fob
  • More control over brand/price
âś— Cons:
  • High risk of wrong/incompatible fob or counterfeit parts
  • Many dealers/locksmiths won’t program customer-supplied fobs
  • Returns can be difficult once opened or attempted

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Waiting until you’re down to one key and then losing it—adding a spare is usually easier and cheaper while you still have a working fob.

âś• Buying the cheapest online fob without confirming compatibility (FCC ID/part number and US-market match) and whether anyone will program it.

✕ Using unlicensed or unverifiable services—protect your vehicle by choosing a bonded/insured locksmith and never sharing proof-of-ownership documents casually.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until emergency
  • Not testing spare immediately
  • Buying incompatible aftermarket
  • Overpaying at dealership

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the car present to make a spare key for a 2024 Acura RDX?

Yes in most cases. Smart key fobs typically must be programmed to the vehicle, which requires access to the RDX during the service. Cutting the emergency blade also requires the correct key code or an existing blade to duplicate.

Will an aftermarket smart key work the same as OEM on a 2024 RDX?

Sometimes, but not always. A quality aftermarket fob may work for lock/unlock and starting, but range, durability, and certain features can vary. If you want the best chance of full feature parity and long-term reliability, OEM is usually the safest choice.

Can I have more than two keys programmed to my 2024 Acura RDX?

Typically yes—most vehicles allow multiple keys, but the exact limit and procedure can vary. The dealer or a capable locksmith can confirm the maximum number of registered keys for your specific RDX configuration.

What should I have ready before calling for a spare key quote?

Have your VIN, a photo of your current fob (front/back), and proof of ownership (registration/title and ID). Ask whether the quote includes the fob, emergency blade cutting, programming, and any trip/service fees.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you’re down to one working key, treat getting a spare as time-sensitive—losing the last key can turn a simple spare-key job into a more expensive situation that may involve towing and additional security procedures.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Acura RDX.

View RDX Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04