esss350

So I've noticed this problem for maybe a year now, but haven't really investigated it thoroughly until now.

Basically whenever I start the car, and then open a door (e.g. driver door), the "key not detected" error message pops up on the dash (this happens maybe 75% of the time). It doesn't really do anything (since the car is already on, and I can just drive, but the message is annoying or I have to take the key out of my pocket and swipe it pass the start button to go away.

I've tried swapping the battery on both my remotes with new ones, and the problem seems to persist. Any idea what this could be?
(I have a 2011 ES350).

heidihidin

did you ever figure this out?

jagtoes

There are a few things to watch out for. Make sure the fob is not in a pocket with a cell phone as that will block the signal and cause the not key found to trigger. Also if you keep the fob in your left pocket sometimes the signal doesn't get through and same problem. Then there is a weak battery.

heidihidin

new battery and no phone around
fob in the cupholder

esss350

Nope. I assume you have the same problem?

To be clear, if I open the door, get in, close the door, start the car, and drive off, no issue.
But if I open the door, get in, close the door, start the car, and open a door again the "key not detected" warning pops up. I can ignore it, continue to drive, or manually dangle my key across the push start button to get the warning to go away. This happens pretty much 100% now.

BTW the key is usually in my right front pocket or I drop it straight into the cup holders with my phone. I highly doubt this proximity/phone related, as there is no issue as long as I don't open any doors once I start the car.

heidihidin

my issue is identical to yours down to the key in right pocket and/or cupholder
dealer is unable to duplicate on numerous tries
at first it was annoying, but lately i am getting worried that after shut down, next time car will not start
i tried 2 keys, disconnecting battery, etc..
must be an ecu or some computer issue

jagtoes

The only time I see the "key undetected" is when I get out of the car when it is running and I have the fob in my pocket. When I get back in the message goes off.