Start a Porsche with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Porsche with a Dead Key Fob

This page holds all of the emergency start or back-up start procedures needed for Porsche vehicles if the battery in the key fob dies or if there are electrical signals interfering with the fob.

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The Porsche Entry & Drive System may or may not feature a dummy key that needs to be turned to start the vehicle. If your vehicle does not have this key, the car’s key fob, even if its internal battery is dead and won’t let you in, will start the car. It will be recognized once placed into the ignition switch.

If there is a dummy key, it will need to be removed in order to use the key fob in the ignition. The owner’s manual holds a somewhat complicated set of removal instructions that will leave you exposed and vulnerable for far too long. Ignore the instructions and do the following.

Make two attempts to start the car normally. The car’s instrument panel will then note that the dummy key can now be pulled away. Once this is done, the vehicle’s key fob can be inserted into the ignition switch and the car started normally. The fob will be recognized even if the fob’s internal battery is dead.

Click here for videos of both the open and start processes.

Panamera and Macan EV

The Panamera continues the use of a dummy key in the ignition in 2017 through 2023. However, if the fob’s battery is dead, a new process is needed, which includes the use of a back up location for the fob.

Lay the key fob, buttons up, in the compartment in the front of the center console to the left of the cup holders. Turn the ignition dummy key to the start position (position 2) and back to off. Turn the dummy key back to the start position a second time and the vehicle will start. The instrument panel will also acknowledge that the key fob has been recognized.

In 2024, a new process is introduced to the Panamera that also applies to the Macan EV. The models use a start/stop or power button. There is a compartment at the front of the center console storage area. Lay the key fob down in the compartment with the buttons up. It appears to be on its side in the image, but this should be ignored. Start the vehicle as normal, stepping on the brake while pressing the start/stop button.

Cayenne and Taycan models

Beginning in 2020, Cayenne and Taycan models use a spot in the cup holders as a back up location. Specifically the back of the left cup holder. They also employ a start/stop or power button.

The key fob must be held against the back wall of the cup holder with the buttons facing forward. Press the power button while stepping on the brake to start the vehicle.

Models covered include 718, 911, 918, Cayenne, Macan, Macan EV, Panamera, and Taycan. Model years 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

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The information on this website is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

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