Tag: push button start

Open and Start a Subaru with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open and Start a Subaru with a Dead Key Fob

Getting into Your Subaru

Retrieving the Mechanical Key

Subaru uses three different styles of Access Key fobs (remote controls or Subaru Key Style 1‘clickers), each of which holds a mechanical key. The rectangular shape Style 1 has a release catch (1) on the mechanical key (2) itself, very near the key ring hole, as shown. Slide the catch towards the hole while pulling on the key to remove it from the Access Key.

There’s plenty more below and video help here

Subaru Key Style 2The Style 2 Access Key has an oval shape. The release for the mechanical key (2) is a simple push-button (1) on the back of the Access Key, as shown (for the record, it looks like it will slide — it won’t). Pull out the mechanical key while pressing the release button at the same time.

Finally, a limited number of Subaru models feature a Style 3 Access Key, Subaru Key Style 3which is also a more rectangular shape. Here, the mechanical key release (1) is on the side of the Access Key, as shown.  Pull out the mechanical key (2) while pressing the release button at the same time.

Starting Your Subaru

Regardless of which Access Key or key fob in hand, the starting process for Subaru vehicles is the same. Hold the Access Key or key fob against the Start / Stop ignition switch with Subaru Emergency Startbuttons facing out towards you, as shown. The vehicle and the Access Key will talk to each other for a few moments, after which a chime or ‘ding’ will be heard.

The Start / Stop ignition has now been switched to the “ACC” or “ON” position. With the brake pedal still depressed, push the Start / Stop button to start the engine. Like similar systems from Toyota and Hyundai, etc., you might opt to simply push the button with the key fob to start it.

Note: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text Engine Start Operation Indicatormessage to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

Finally, check our Videos for additional help.

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2014/11/subaru-dead-key-fob-help/

Think You Locked Your Keys in the Trunk? Maybe Not…

Locked Your Keys in the Trunk?

In the world of Push Button or Keyless Start cars, three calls are commonly received by service departments and roadside assistance operators: lock outs, dead key fob batteries and keys “locked” in the trunk or behind the rear hatch.

Key Detected IndicatorOf the three, the lock out is most likely to require an actual visit from roadside assistance. The second, a dead fob battery, has a backup plan that you can find here at DashboardSymbols.com or in your owner’s manual – if you can get into the car.

The third, keys locked in the trunk or storage area, is usually a conceptual problem that is a result of the nature of “locked” when it comes to modern push button ignition systems.

And of course the length of the explanation highlights one of the many problems associated with advanced technology. Perceived as user-friendly, the details can be more than confusing.

So first, assuming, and yes we hate to use that word, that the battery in the fob is strong, closing the trunk with the fob inside does not lock your keys inside. Just as a driver can approach the car with the key fob in a pocket or purse and open a door with just a touch, there is also a touch spot or pad for the trunk.

The difference is, of course, that a door has a handle to pull while a trunk does not. Thus a sense of panic can easily arise in a driver who has not routinely opened the trunk using the touch pad. Feel for it – it will generally be a raised or depressed, rubberized bit above the license plate. It is not visible unless you bend over and look for it.

This takes us to the nature of “locked” on push button systems. A driver steps from his or her car and presses the lock button on the fob. The locks engage. However, he or she can approach the vehicle at any time and open it with just a touch, all because the vehicle is in constant communication with that key fob. The same is true for the trunk, even with the fob inside the trunk.

So is the vehicle locked?

Well yes – and no! If the driver is within range, anyone can walk up to vehicle and open it. However, most vehicles make it possible to lock all the doors from the inside, which overrides the touch system.

This can result in a lockout, if the interior lock switch is engaged when exiting the car – and leaving the keys inside. This is roadside assistance time, unless you are fortunate enough to have OnStar, or an equivalent service.

So just to confuse things further, many manufacturers have included a trunk lockout switch, usually located in the glove box. This allows a driver to lock the trunk with the switch, then manually lock the glove box and hand the key fob to a valet while keeping valuables protected. If that switch is engaged and the keys are in a closed trunk, its roadside assistance time again!

Truly though, in the vast majority of situations, if you have dropped the keys into the trunk and closed it, relax. If you have a push-button start system, simply touch the pad above the license plate or on the lift handle of your rear hatch and the trunk lid or hatch will pop open.

The video below will help as well.

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

 

 

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2013/09/think-you-locked-your-keys-in-the-trunk-maybe-not/

Open a Volkswagen or Audi with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Volkswagen or Audi with a Dead Key Fob

Retrieving the mechanical key

VW / Audi Key FobThere are three general styles of key fobs in use with Volkswagen and Audi models. With the older style shown to the right, press the chrome button on the back of the key fob (remote control or ‘clicker’) to release the spring-loaded mechanical key, which remains attached to the key fob.

Audi, VW Advanced KeyNewer Volkswagen and Audi models use what they called an Advanced Key, shown to the left. The mechanical key is separated Audi Key Fob 2from the fob (or remote control or ‘clicker’) by pressing the button on the back side of the fob, shown with the arrow, while pulling on the same key ring end.

Audi introduced a third Advanced Key fob style in 2016 that for some reason requires pushing two buttons at the same time. They are on either side of the key ring end, as shown. Push them both while pulling the key ring out to retrieve the mechanical key.

Audi fob newAnd yet a fourth key fob from Audi has a chrome button on the back, similar to the unit above, but below the chrome end. push the button and pull on the key ring end to remove the mechanical key. We saw it first in the new 2019 Q8.

Getting Inside

On some models, the lock cylinder (keyhole) at the back of the door handle will be visible. If so, simply use the key blade to unlock the door.VW /Audi Keyhole Cover

If the keyhole at the back of the driver’s door handle is hidden, press the key blade about a half inch straight up in the hole on the underside of the keyhole cover (a). If you are in the dark, you may need to feel for the hole. This action will loosen the cover and pulling on the door handle will allow you to remove it. Yes, you must remove a piece of the car. Use the mechanical key in the now-exposed lock to unlock the driver’s door.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/volkswagen-and-audi-dead-key-fob-help/

Open a Hyundai with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Hyundai with a Dead Key Fob

Hyundai flip key fobRetrieving the mechanical key

Hyundai has used a flip key key fob since 2015 and they remain in use today (2025) in some models. The mechanical key is found by pressing the chrome button on the end opposite the key ring. The mechanical key is released and remains attached to the fob.

hyundai Mechanical KeyTo use the most common Hyundai key fobs, press and hold the release button at the key ring end of the remote control or ‘clicker’ and pull the key ring to remove mechanical key. Use the key to unlock the driver’s door. They too remain in limited use today (2025).

Newer version key fobs are available that look very similar and operate in the same way, with one primary exceptions, found next.

Hyundai key fobThe exception come in the form of key fobs with the mechanical release on the back, which. Hyundai began using in 2019 (right). Push the button in order to release the mechanical key.

If a key hole is visible, use the key to unlock the driver’s door.

With the introduction of the Ionic 6 in 2022, Hyundai began 2022 Hyundai mechanical key2022 Hyundai key fobsupplying a new key fob and separate mechanical key shown to the right. This fob has spread to other models as well. To use the mechanical key, a protective cover must be removed and its handle rotated down.

In our opinion, this development is a prescription for disaster, as the mechanical keys can easily be lost or simply left behind, so by all means activate the additional unlock features described below!

Hidden Keyholes

Two Piece Door Handles

Starting with the 2014 Hyundai Genesis, (prior to the new independent Genesis line, which debuted in 2017), the manufacturer adopted the hidden keyhole Kia Keyhole Covertrick. Several other Hyundai models have been added since, namely the Santa Fe, in 2024, and Venue. These models all feature a two-piece door handle. As shown in the image to the left, press the mechanical key into the slot found under the cover at the back of the driver’s door handle (1) and pull forward and up by hand (2).

Pulling the cap while holding some upward pressure will work best. There is a black button in the slot that is being pushed up with the key in this move and the cap is immediately to move!

Hyundai hybrid door unlockA “hybrid” of this was introduced in 2020 in the Sonata. By 2024, it is found in the Elantra, Santa Cruz, and Tucson. The mechanical key is again slipped into a slot beneath the back of the door handle and pushed upwards. Now however, a small cover, seen in blue to the left, is slid to the side and out of the way. This should be done when the mechanical key is still inserted and pushed upward. The keyhole is then revealed.

2024 Kona door handleThe redesign of the Kona brings with it a new and odd door two-piece handle, as seen to the left. It still features a cap that hides the key hole, which must be removed. It looks like the others, but to get at the key hole, lift the door handle and hold it in the open position. Slip the mechanical key into the open slot in the cap from behind it and rotate the cap upwards. It will come free, exposing the key hole.

And yes one way or another you must pull a piece of your car off, but its ok! The cover will come off exposing the keyhole.

One Piece Door Handles

Santa Fe handleIn 2019, a very different hidden key hole style was introduced in the Hyundai Santa Fe (removed in 2024), the new Palisade model a year later and the Elantra in 2021. The handle for all intents and purposes is one piece, but a small piece of horizontal trim located just behind the black entry button (arrow) is removable. Pull the handle outward. This exposes another small black button just behind the handle (2, below). Look at the handle from behind to find it.

Push the button inwards using the mechanical key. This releases the trim piece that can be swung away exposing the keyhole. The key can then be turned to unlock the car. Pull the key out before opening the door to avoid damaging the door handle.

We have a video of the process on this page.

Hyundai flush handleAfterwards, the cover can be pressed back on, but your immediate concern is getting into your car.

Ionic, Ionic 5 and Ionic 6 vehicles feature a flush door handle.  A push on the front of the handle will rotate the rear part outward. Then pull the handle out as far as it will go. In all vehicles except the Nexo, the key hole is immediately visible (left). The mechanical key can be inserted and turned to unlock the vehicle.

Hyundai flush handle plugG90 key hole coverIn the Nexo, a plug protects the key hole, likely from water and debris. Use the mechanical key to pry the plug away (first image left) and then insert the key to unlock the car.

Digital Unlock Options

Genesis digital keyHyundai vehicles that include a separate mechanical key include two digital options and a facial recognition option. Digital options include a pre-registered card key and a smart phone app on a registered smart phone. The card key and app can also start the car. However, facial recognition will only open the vehicle, so the key fob, card key or smart phone app will be needed to start the car.

Place the registered smart phone or card key against the pad for two seconds to unlock the driver’s door and for four seconds to unlock all the doors.

Genesis face recognitionFacial recognition is accomplished using a camera mounted in the pillar behind the driver’s door. Again, this will only allow entry and other means will be needed to start the car, so this is of limited value.

However, given that the mechanical key is supplied separately and can be far too easily misplaced, we highly recommend following the instructions in the owner’s manual to activate both the smart phone and facial recognition features as back up entry options and to keep the card key with you at all times.

Also, check our videos for additional help.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/hyundai-and-kia-dead-fob-help/

Open Chevrolet Models with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open Chevrolet Models with a Dead Key Fob

Retrieving the mechanical key

GM makes three key GM Key Style 1fob (remote control or ‘clicker’) styles, and Chevrolet uses them all. To get in the vehicle when the key fob battery is dead, a mechanical key will have to retrieved from the fob and used to unlock the car.

For the rectangular style fob or transmitter press the thin button near the bottom of the transmitter (remote control or ‘clicker’) used to remove the mechanical key. Do not pull the mechanical key out without pressing the button.

GM Key Style 2In next style is a flip key, shown to the left, press the unmarked chrome button to extend the mechanical key. It remains attached to the key fob. Use the mechanical key to unlock the driver’s door.

GM Style 3The final rounded style key fob is similar to the rectangular fob, in that the mechanical key is removed from the fob for use getting into the vehicle. However, it is similar in appearance to Style 2. To remove the mechanical key, press the button on the side of the transmitter near the key ring, as shown, and pull the key out.

Getting Inside

If a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door handle, simply insert the mechanical and turn, and you’re in.

Beginning with the 6th generation Corvette introduced in 2005 and adding the Cadillac CTS and ELR Coupes, no external door handle is obvious, and thus no backup entrance option. See below.

Then in the 2013, the Chevrolet Impala and followed by eight additional models the by 2017, the key hole was hidden. Sadly, more and more General Motors products will likely feature this unnecessary change going forward.

GM Lock Cover RemoveChevrolet models with traditional door handles but no obvious key holes or lock cylinders, hide the key holes under a cap at the back of the driver’s door. They include the Impala, Tahoe, Suburban, Malibu, Cruze, Camaro and Volt as well as new Bolt and Blazer models. To remove the cap, pull the door handle out to the open position. Insert the key into the slot on the bottom of the cap (“3”, right).

Push it as far upwards as possible and hold that upward pressure. Then pry outward. And yes, you WILL feel like you are prying off a piece of your car! Move the cap rearward revealing the key cylinder. Now the mechanical key can be used in the cylinder. Look for a video here to help.

To replace the cap, insert the two tabs at the back of the cap between the black seal and the metal base. Pull the door handle out to the door open position and move the cap forward and press to snap it into place. You can then release the door handle.

Remember, getting in the car is most important. If you have difficulty replacing the cap, don’t. Let your dealer do it when you get a new battery for your Key FOB!

C8 Corvette lock cylinderCorvette models are a very different animals. The C6 through C8 models have  non-traditional, all electronic  locks, latches and door handles, if they can be called handles at all. The C8 does have a key cylinder, but it is found in the air inlet located on the body, behind and above the left door handle. See the image to the right. Insert the mechanical key and turn to open the car.

Coupe_flush_handleOlder C6 and C7 Corvette models, also have flush door handles (right image) with no key holes at all. They have a very different trick up their sleeves. You must use the mechanical key to open the trunk. The key hole is under the lip of the trunk lid facing the ground.

Corvette Open handleOnce the trunk is open, you will find a release handle. It is along the left wall of the trunk in the  Corvette (right).

Pull this release lever and the driver’s door will unlock, unlatch and open slightly and you’ll be in!

We have videos for the coupes here.

Related: Getting Out!

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/general-motors-dead-fob-help/

Open a Ford with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Ford with a Dead Key Fob

Retrieving the mechanical key

Ford vehicles use a number of different Intelligent Access Ford fob style 1(IA) (remote control or ‘clicker’) key styles. Two of the key fobs use a sliding release on the back side to release the key. Two new key fobs use a push button to release the mechanical key, and one is much easier than the other to use. Another holds the key inside the fob itself and is really difficult to remove.

Ford Key #2To release the mechanical key blade in your IA key fob, slide the release on the back of the transmitter and pull the blade out. You can now use the mechanical key to unlock the driver’s door.

An exception is the third key fob style shown. In this case, the removable mechanical key blade is held inside the fob. Slide the release on the back of the remote control (top arrow) and pivot the cover off Ford key style 3(pull is straight up and off) to access the key blade. Its awkward and may take some practice. That mechanical key can now be used to unlock the driver’s door.

This fourth and unusual Intelligent Access key fob is found with only a handful of Ford models. The mechanical key blade is found on the back of the fob. Ford fob style 4To remove it, push the buttons on either side of the key fob.

We have not seen one of these, so it is not immediately obvious if the mechanical key stays attached to the fob, as it would appear from the image, or if it can actually be removed.

Finally, this last key fob was introduced in some Fords in 2017, and it is the simplest to use. New Ford KeyIt has a push button on the front of the mechanical key itself near the key ring space. Simply push the button and pull the mechanical key away from the IA key.

Getting Inside

In 2013, the Ford Fusion became yet another car that has the key hole hidden under a cap at the back of the driver’s door handle. The 2015 Mustang and Ford Keyhole Coverthe 2016 Edge have since been added to this list.

To remove the cap, insert the key blade into the slot on the bottom of the handle (right image, bottom arrow) and press up. While holding that upward pressure, move the cap rearward to release it. Gently remove the key while doing so. Yes, the effect is that of prying off a piece of your car but its OK and necessary!

To reinstall the cap, place it just forward of the key cylinder. While applying pressure to the cap, move it forward until it is in place. It snaps into place. Make sure the cap is properly installed by trying to move it rearward.

Remember, getting IN the car is most important. If you have difficulty replacing the cap, don’t bother. Let your dealer do it when you get a new battery for your IA Key Fob!

Look for video help here.

Expedition key holeThe Ford Expedition is updated for 2018, and features another way to hide the key hole. The door handles are a single piece. The key hole is easily exposed by simply pulling the driver’s door handle. It is seen angled outward at the back end of the handle. Insert the mechanical key and turn clockwise. Remove the key and release the handle. The door will open on the next pull. Note that the alarm will sound in a minute or so if the car is not started in time.

GT trunk unlockThe Ford GT uses all electronic locks and latches. The end result is that there is no key hole to unlock a door. So, to get in, you’ll need to open the rear hatch!

Use the mechanical key to open it. A key hole is located just above and to the right of the license plate, as depicted in the image to the right. Note that if you have the rare GT release in hatchCompetition Series GT, the key hole is on the top of the hatch.

Once the hatch is open, look for a release cable and handle located at the upper left of the storage area beneath the hatch, as seen in the image. Pull the handle to release the driver’s door.

Mach E unlock buttonThe new all electric Mustang Mach E uses electronic latches. A button above the door handle (right) is pressed and the door pops open. If the key fob is dead, the vehicle offers is no opportunity to use the mechanical key to get inside. However, the car can be accessed with an app on your smart phone or using the keyless entry code panel on the door post.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/ford-lincoln-dead-fob-help/

Open a Chrysler, Dodge or Ram with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Chrysler, Dodge or Ram with a Dead Key Fob

Chrysler Key FobRetrieving the mechanical key

To remove the emergency (mechanical) key from a key fob belonging to early Chrysler or Dodge vehicle, slide the mechanical latch at the top of the back of the Key Fob (remote control or ‘clicker’) to the side and then pull the mechanical key out with your free hand.

Chrysler Key FobTwoThe Key Fobs used in models built after 2010 are sleeker and rounded (see the image to the right) but work the same way. Slide the mechanical latch at the top of the back of the Fob to the side and pull the emergency key out with your free hand.

Ram key fobEven newer models, including Ram trucks, use an updated, flatter version of the key fob. The button is on the side, as denoted by the bottom arrow. The mechanical key is removed by once again pulling on the key ring end with your free hand.

Getting Inside

In all these models, a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door. Simply insert the mechanical key and turn and you’re in.

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/chrysler-dodge-dead-fob-help/