Newest Lexus door handle is a step backwards, prompting this rant

Lexus door handle

I recently had the opportunity to work with the latest Lexus door handle and simply can’t shake the idea that the handle is a huge step backwards and completely unnecessary. Let me explain.

Lexus, at the advent of keyless open and start, was one of the first auto manufacturers to hide the key hole. It may have actually been the first, but that is of little importance.

The eye opening number of phone calls from drivers unable to open their cars when the battery in the key fob failed that I personally handled was one of the primary catalysts for this website.

In 2016, the company began using the handle seen to the right. It still hides the key hole, but the reveal is a simple matter of pulling the handle to the open position.

Used initially on the NX and eventually moving to the UX, RC, and RX, we applauded the company for the move at the time, anticipating that the handle would be deployed across all model lines for the sake of its driving public.

Not only did this not occur, but in 2023, NX, RX, RZ, and TX models got the handle shown to the right, the very handle we struggled with in the video below. Once again a cap must be removed from the back of the driver’s door handle to reveal the key hole. The image shows a credit card or equivalent being used to make the first move to remove the cap.

And, of course, the instructions for this process are in the owner’s manual, electronic or otherwise, locked inside the car. Instructions can also be found on the Lexus app, but that app could also be used to unlock the car directly. So, if a driver is in need of using a mechanical key to get inside, either the cell phone is not available or itself has run out of battery.

The point is that there is little to no excuse for making it so difficult to use a mechanical key. The process leaves drivers in very vulnerable positions in what could very likely be poor weather, or after dark, or whatever difficulty can be conjured up. These situations seem to never arise when it is sunny and 75 degrees.

Just exactly how is frustrating or endangering a customer in a manufacturer’s best interest??

The video in question is below and you can view all of our Lexus open and start videos here.

——————————————————————-

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.

Privacy Policy