Open a Land Rover with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Land Rover with a Dead Key Fob

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

• First, if you are already inside, click here for help getting started!
• Second, for video help, click here!
• Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Retrieving the mechanical key

Land Rover use three versions of Smart Keys fobs. For the first one, press and hold the release button on the side of the fob, while lifting the emergency (mechanical) key blade cover from the Smart Key body. Extract the emergency key blade and unfold. On some models, the lock cylinder (keyhole) at the back of the door handle will be visible. If so, use the key blade to unlock the door.

The second version hides the mechanical or emergency key beneath a chrome cover on one side of the fob. Slide the side cover towards the top of the fob as shown to release and remove it. The mechanical key can then be slipped out the same way and unfolded.

Note that we have seen this type of fob from Land Rover that are missing their fold out keys! If you run into this, you will, unfortunately, need to get in touch with your dealer as soon as possible.

The newest version of the fob is thankfully a simple side button press (arrow, right) and a pull. The mechanical key is the key ring end of the fob. We have seen two instances of mechanical keys missing from key fobs in the previous styles. This will not be an issue with the newest fob.

Most of the models using the versions 2 and 3 key fob all have hidden key holes, so move to the next steps, below.

But again, if a key hole is visible (like the Defender), simply insert the emergency key and turn and you’ll be inside.

Getting Inside

LR4, Discovery and Sport, Range Rover, Range Rover Evoque and Sport

If the keyhole is not visible, insert the key blade into the slot at the base of the door lock cover located near the back of the driver’s door handle and lift slightly to pry away the lock cover and expose the lock cylinder. The key blade will need to be twisted slightly as well. If you are in the dark, you may need to feel for the slot. Yes, you must pry off a piece of the car. It is uncomfortable but necessary and will uncover the hidden keyhole.

For Land Rovers built after 2015 and using the second key fob, the process is just slightly different but looks very much the same. There is still an access hole or slot beneath the key hole cover. Insert the key blade into the slot and press down on the cover slightly. Gently lever the key blade upwards and rotate the lock cover upwards to release it. And again, yes, you are prying off a piece of the car.

Range Rover Velar and Evoque

The Range Rover Velar, first offered in 2018, has flush door handles that reach out when the driver touches it while an active key fob is present. They will remain fixed if the key fob’s battery is dead or there is interference. The Evoque now features the new handle as well. Other models may follow.

The lock cylinder is hidden behind the flush handle. To get at it, press the front of the handle. The rear of the handle will be pushed out. Pull the entire handle out to the fully deployed position.

Once you have exposed the lock cylinder at the rear of the handle, use the mechanical key, which is the same in this model as others built since 2015, to unlock the driver’s door. Again, the alarm sounds until the Smart Key is positioned correctly inside the vehicle. To disarm the alarm continue to Starting Instructions in Part II.

New Range Rover, New Range Rover Sport

In 2022, Land Rover released what it calls the New Range Rover, the New Range Rover Sport, and the  New Range Rover Evoque. The Evoque continues to use the door handle described just above. However the New Range Rover and Range Rover Sport now have a key hole in the center of the space made available when the door handle is pulled away. It is shown to the right.

Again, the alarm sounds until the Smart Key is positioned correctly inside the car. To disarm the alarm continue to Starting Instructions in Part II.

Also, check out our videos for additional Land Rover help.

Land rover models examined include the Defender, Discovery, Discovery Sport, LR4, Range Rover, Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Velar, New Range Rover, New Range Rover Sport and New Range Rover Velar. Model years 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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The material on these pages 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.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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