even the new key fobs has metal key, to open the door just in-case the battery dies (also to lock glove compartment and trunk)... doesn't the key warn you if the battery is low?

 

Yes, it warns you by not working. I had the same issue with my Avalon once and had to hold the key up to the pushbutton to start the car.

 

I seem to remember when reading my owner's manual that the multi-function panel warns you if the key battery is weak. That should happen well before it will no longer unlock the car.

Gene

 

If you wanted to, you can surely swap out the whole old SmartAccess with the new system and jimmy together a pushbutton somewhere on the car. I'm not sure how cost effective that would be because I'd gather labor and parts probably in excess of $4K. That's a lot of dough to correct a "large key" problem.

 

Now that would be a kick *** mod, converting our current smart key over to the new push button start one. I also think it would be a lot of work and $$$$ to do it, another mod would be to swap Gen 4 screen with a Gen 5 sreen for the higher rez screen.

 

that would indeed would be a kick *** mod. question: other than obviously the ignition switch, what other components on the car would have to be changed/altered in order for this mod to be successfull?

 

I thought of the tilt/telescoping steering wheel right off the bat. When would it "assume the position?" As you're pushing in the button? After you release the button? After successful startup?...