Sorry if this may have been discussed already but I did search and didn't find it.

How do you turn off the electronic key on the ES 350? I have a 2025.

I want to disable it from the car itself as an anti-theft measure. I've seen videos on Youtube on how to do it on an RX but nothing on the ES. I poked around my car's menu system and no luck.

I would like it so my car will only unlock by the press of the key fob and engine will only start with the key fob held next to the start button and the button is pressed.
Anyone else done this?

 

While holding the LOCK button down, quickly press the UNLOCK button two times. You should see the light on the FOB blink 4 times. It is then turned off. This is common on all Toyota vehicles that use a FOB for locking/unlocking. You will have to do this every time you want the touch lock feature turned off.

The other way is more permanent and requires that you get an app on your phone and an OBD plug in unit and turn the “Smart Access System” off or get the dealer to do it. Refer to that multi-page chart near the back of your manual.

 

I've seen that. Unfortunately it's temporary. It gets reset next time I use the fob.

 

Reread my response…I was adding while you were typing! 😉

Personally I use the Carista OBD II connector and app…lots of other stuff you can do with that as well.

 

You could also put the key in a Faraday pouch and take it out when you want to use it.

 

You don't need a special Faraday pouch - you can simply wrap the fob in aluminum foil.
Or line your pocket or purse with alum foil.

 

That's an idea. Would it screw up my warranty? I know dealerships are always looking for ways to weasel out of repairs and services at their expense.

 

It should not...you aren't able to get into the engine or transmission mapping functions with it, you can read the codes, change options with the seating, mirrors, doors, etc. and see the TPMS info. In addition, it is listed as one of the things that shows up in the owners manual. I have only had Lexus that are recently out of warrantee so it's not something that I worry about. You might want to phone up the dealer and ask how much they'd charge to make that change....perhaps they'd do it at no extra at your next warrantee maintenance.

 

Page 420 of the 2025 ES Owner's Manual shows that the Easy Entry feature can be disabled with a trip to the Dealer
to use a TechTool to change it. Pretty sure the Carista App will do it also but charges a subscription fee to use.

 

True...but the first time you use the Carista you get it for free for (I recall but they keep changing) about 1 month. After that you can choose to buy one month on a rotating subscription or a full year. If you go with the one month, cancel the "subscription" before the second month starts and then build up a "laundry list" of things you want to change/check so that you can do them "all at once" the next time you buy a month worth. I think it is about $10 US for a month...still a lot cheaper than going to the dealer! Oh...and there are some things you can check (Codes, TPMS) without paying the fee any time.