BradTank

My 2004 has a Smart Key that you can just leave in your pocket, you don't have to stick it in the ignition in order to start it.

My question is, does that burn through the key battery quicker? Would it conserve battery life to have it in the ignition switch instead of in my pocket? Or is it all the same?

If you say step out of the car while it's running, the car will start beeping that it can't detect the key. And the key blinks a red led when it's not in the ignition. It's almost like the key is having to transmit a continuous signal.

I've already replaced the battery once, just curious if it burns through them quickly.

Zodiac

iTrader: (1)

I paid less than $2 for 5 CR2032 Maxell LITHIUM batteries from Amazon. I have no idea if it uses more battery or not if the key isn't inserted but not having to insert the key in the ignition is worth more than that to me.

BradTank

I'm less concerned about the price, more curious than anything.

Jabberwock

Hard to tell without a controlled experiment - my guess is that even with key in the ignition the electronics are still gonna do there ongoing handshake. I replaced key fob battery 3 years ago and its still going strong, it never goes in my ignition. Absolutely one of the best features of the car. We got a 2010 Mazda Miata early this year and it has basic same feature and we love it also. Fumbling for keys is a thing of the past.

L8RSk8R

7 years at over 300K miles, never replaced a fob battery and key goes in iginition 50% of time.

Kira X

iTrader: (24)

I've always wondered this myself. I usually just stick the key in the ignition.

AlexusAnja

Why do you have it 50% of the time and not all in, or all out? The LS key doesn't charge like on the BMW keys, so I don't believe having it in is conserving anything.

chunkyda

If it were inserted, the car could quit interrogating the key to determine location. There might be something in the owners manual about this where it discusses not keeping the key near the car to increase battery life. My key stays in my pocket 100% of the time, love this feature.

L8RSk8R

I know. The car is assigned 2 drivers (limo service) One always inserts the key, while the other always leaves the key in his pocket.

warminwisc

Does anyone have pictures of the filter removal under the seats?

jayclapp

I have no concern about whether I have to replace a $4 battery every 3 or 5 or 7 years. Is this all we have to complain about this car?!!!

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

Jayclapp, your so antagonistic in your post. What's up with that? Relax man, not everyone thinks or is concerned about the same things you are.

BradTank

Who's complaining, it's just a question. If it doesn't interest you, don't participate.

Don't you have some kids to chase off your lawn?