ellis400

Hi, I'm new to this forum

I have a 1998 LS400 that I love dearly and have fixed a lot of issues on however I am still facing this last issue,

my key will no longer unlock/lock doors with the key button nor will the trunk release work with the button

the trunk will also not release when I pull the driver side trunk release

the trunk only releases manually when I insert key into the keyhole

the door locks work fine with the driver side button


these issues have only started recently, everything was working not long ago

does anyone know what could be wrong?

Fit1too

Battery (CR1616) in remote (key) may need to be changed. Also, on page 64 of the owner's manual, it gives information on the trunk lid opener system. If the button between the fuel door release and the truck release (with the key slot in the middle) is pushed in, the trunk will NOT open when the trunk release lever is pulled. You have to insert your key and turn it counterclockwise to activate the system (allow the release lever to pop the trunk lid). You may have not noticed that this system was activated if you have always used your key/remote to open the trunk.

ellis400

thank you for the quick response. I'll be checking both of these once i'm off work. I didnt think it was a lock issue since the button on the driver side still works so hopefully it is the key battery

Fit1too

The screws on the key/remote are tiny Phillips head screws. Use the correct size driver and be accurate in your attempt so as to not strip the head of the screws. I ended up having to apply quite a bit of pressure to get the screws to give, so I put mine on the countertop with a piece of thick foam underneath it. That way it doesn't move around and/or damage the key/remote. Hope this makes sense.

ellis400

thank you I can confirm that you solved both of my issues. very glad I posted here, I appreciate the help