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Key Fob Stolen: What to Do for a 2024 Acura MDX (US)

A stolen key fob is more urgent than a lost one because someone may be able to unlock and start your 2024 Acura MDX. Acting quickly can reduce the risk of vehicle theft and help you regain secure access. Below are practical steps and your best replacement and security options in the US market.

Understanding Your Situation

Your Acura MDX key fob was taken by someone else (e.g., theft from a bag, home, gym locker, or during a break-in). Because modern Acura fobs can enable keyless entry and push-button start, you should assume the vehicle is at higher risk until the stolen fob is disabled and your vehicle’s key list is updated.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm the vehicle is secure: move it to a locked garage or well-lit area, lock it, and remove valuables; if you suspect the thief knows where the MDX is parked, consider relocating it immediately.
  2. Report the theft: file a police report (needed for insurance and some dealer processes) and document the fob type/any identifying info; if stolen during a burglary, note any stolen registration/garage opener too.
  3. Contact an Acura dealer ASAP to disable the stolen fob: request that the stolen transmitter be removed from the vehicle’s authorized key list and that remaining keys be verified/reprogrammed.

Your Options

Dealer: Disable stolen fob + program new OEM key fob

Cost: $300-$650 Time: Same day / 1-2 days (depending on key stock and appointment availability)

An Acura dealer updates the MDX’s authorized key list to invalidate the stolen fob, then supplies and programs a new OEM smart key. They can also confirm how many keys are currently registered and ensure only your keys remain active.

âś“ Pros:
  • Most reliable way to ensure the stolen fob no longer works
  • OEM parts and correct programming for your exact trim and security system
âś— Cons:
  • Typically the most expensive option
  • May require towing or extra coordination if you have no working key

Automotive locksmith: Reprogram to remove stolen fob + supply/program replacement

Cost: $200-$500 Time: Same day (if the locksmith supports 2024 MDX and has compatible parts)

A qualified automotive locksmith comes to the vehicle (often mobile), accesses the vehicle’s immobilizer/keyless system, removes the stolen fob from memory (where supported), and programs a replacement fob. Quality and capability vary by provider and equipment.

âś“ Pros:
  • Often faster and more convenient (mobile service)
  • Can be less expensive than the dealer
âś— Cons:
  • Not all locksmiths can service late-model Acura systems
  • Aftermarket fobs may be less durable/reliable than OEM

Insurance claim (comprehensive) for stolen keys and rekey/reprogram

Cost: $0-$650+ (depends on deductible and coverage) Time: 1-7 days (varies by insurer approvals and scheduling)

If you have comprehensive coverage, your policy may help cover key replacement and reprogramming after theft (often with a deductible). Insurers may require a police report and may direct you to a dealer or approved vendor.

âś“ Pros:
  • May significantly reduce out-of-pocket cost
  • Creates documentation that can help if the vehicle is later stolen
âś— Cons:
  • Deductible may exceed the cost of replacement
  • A claim can affect premiums depending on insurer and history

Temporary security: Faraday storage + physical deterrents while waiting

Cost: $20-$120 Time: Same day

Use a Faraday pouch/box for remaining fobs to reduce relay-attack risk and add a visible deterrent (e.g., steering wheel lock). This does not replace disabling the stolen fob, but can reduce risk while you arrange service.

âś“ Pros:
  • Quick, inexpensive risk reduction
  • Helpful even after replacement to reduce relay-theft exposure
âś— Cons:
  • Does not invalidate the stolen fob
  • Deterrents can be bypassed and should not be your only measure

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t wait to reprogram/disable the stolen fob—until it’s removed from the vehicle’s authorized list, the thief may still be able to access or start the MDX.

✕ Don’t buy a cheap online fob and assume it will work—many are incompatible, counterfeit, or cannot be programmed to late-model vehicles; you may lose time and money.

✕ Don’t leave the remaining fob(s) near exterior doors/windows—reduce relay-attack risk by storing keys in a Faraday pouch/box or away from entry points.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not deactivating stolen key
  • Delaying reprogramming
  • Not filing police report
  • Ignoring security risk

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone drive away in my 2024 Acura MDX if they have my stolen key fob?

Potentially, yes—especially if the fob is close enough to the vehicle to allow keyless entry and push-button start. The safest approach is to have the stolen fob removed from the MDX’s authorized key list as soon as possible and keep the vehicle in a secure location in the meantime.

Will reprogramming disable the stolen fob?

In most cases, yes—when the dealer or a properly equipped locksmith updates the vehicle’s key registration, they can invalidate missing/stolen fobs so they no longer work with the vehicle. Ask the provider to confirm that the stolen fob will be removed (not just adding a new key).

Do I need to tow my MDX to the dealer if my fob was stolen?

If you still have a working key, you can usually drive it in. If you have no working key, you may need towing, or you can look for a mobile locksmith who can service a 2024 Acura MDX on-site (capability varies).

How many keys should I have after everything is fixed?

Many owners keep at least two working fobs. After reprogramming, ask for confirmation of how many keys are currently registered and ensure only your keys are active.

Is there anything I can do right now to reduce theft risk before I get a replacement?

Yes: move the MDX to a secure location, use a steering wheel lock as a visible deterrent, and store any remaining fobs in a Faraday pouch/box to reduce relay-attack risk. These steps help, but they do not replace disabling the stolen fob.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Treat a stolen key fob as time-sensitive. Until the stolen fob is removed from the vehicle’s authorized key list, your MDX may be vulnerable to unauthorized entry and starting—especially if the thief knows where the vehicle is parked.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

View MDX Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04