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Smart key system... Mostly works except keyless ignition switch
Any ideas how to get the smartkey to operate with key in the pocket?
Everything else works as in key in the pocket touch door handles unlock, push door button lock. According to the techstream, all the sensors are reading correctly and it can sense fobs around the car - front back left right etc.
But ignition switch won't move without the fob being inserted. When a fob is inserted I can hear a solenoid being retracted...after that it turns.
steps taken so far:
I have changed the batteries in the fobs.
Unregistered and reregistered the keys...
I can't see anything else left to press or prod to get it to turn remotely in the techstream utility or customise settings.
Is there a trick to getting the ignition switch to work wirelessly?
I am on techstream v12.20.024 if that makes a difference.
Any ideas how to get the smartkey to operate with key in the pocket?
Everything else works as in key in the pocket touch door handles unlock, push door button lock. According to the techstream, all the sensors are reading correctly and it can sense fobs around the car - front back left right etc.
But ignition switch won't move without the fob being inserted. When a fob is inserted I can hear a solenoid being retracted...after that it turns.
steps taken so far:
I have changed the batteries in the fobs.
Unregistered and reregistered the keys...
I can't see anything else left to press or prod to get it to turn remotely in the techstream utility or customise settings.
Is there a trick to getting the ignition switch to work wirelessly?
I am on techstream v12.20.024 if that makes a difference.
You may wish to check the Smart Access button marked "KEY" located on the underside of the instrument cluster next to the **** to adjust the volume of the operation and door lock buzzer, and make certain it is in the proper position ...
1. Smart access system on
2. Smart access system off
When it is put into pos 2, the keyless entry door handles stop working.
Sadly cycling the switch to confirm operation hasn't made the ignition switch wireless function work.
Thankfully the LS430 allows key as if/when pushbutton ignition on cars fail, expensive solution to remedy....
Sorry you have an issue ... don't know if the following will help, and may be a waste of time, but saw it some time ago ...
1. Begin with the key out of the ignition. 2. OPEN and UNLOCK the DRIVER'S side door. CLOSE all other doors including the trunk. 3. Within 5 seconds INSERT the key into the ignition and PULL it out TWICE. 4. CLOSE then OPEN the DRIVER's side door TWICE. 5. Insert key INTO the ignition then REMOVE it. 6. CLOSE then OPEN the DRIVER's side door TWICE. 7. Insert the key INTO the ignition and LEAVE it in ignition. 8. CLOSE the DRIVER's side door. 9. Switch the ignition to ON then OFF. 10. REMOVE the key from ignition. 11. The door locks will now cycle to confirm the vehicle has successfully entered programming mode. 12. PUSH and HOLD the LOCK and UNLOCK button for 1.5 seconds on the first remote being programmed. As soon as you let go PUSH the LOCK button and HOLD it for 2 seconds. 13. The door locks will cycle to confirm successful programming of the remote. If you have any additional remotes to program repeat step 12 if you have no additional remotes proceed to step 14. 14. OPEN the DRIVER'S side door. Programming is now complete.
With the fob in your pocket, when you press in the ignition switch you should hear a relay/solenoid click before you turn it.
If you don't then for some reason it's not disarming the immobiliser.
I have had a problem before where it wouldn't allow me to turn the key due to the steering lock preventing the release of the immobiliser solenoid.
Regular use seemed to resolve that one, or else I got in the habit of turning the steering slightly one way or the other whilst turning the ignition switch.
Okay, so when I press the the ignition switch with the key in the pocket, the solenoid sound doesn't click.
But when I put either fob in the switch it does make the solenoid sound and I can use it like normal - no problems.
So I agree that something isn't immobilizing it when the key is in my pocket.
I have used techstream to do a sensing circuit test - The sensors can correctly identify the key in all positions - front, rear, left centre and rights spots, trunk/boot (Test where the buzzer sounds when the key is in the specified zone).
And when I approach the car the puddle lamps turn on correctly on either side of the car.
I have also purged and re-added the keys, changes batteries incase that had anything to do with it
Could there be an option somewhere that disables the keyless ignition switch somewhere but leaves all the other wireless features working?
Okay, so when I press the the ignition switch with the key in the pocket, the solenoid sound doesn't click.
But when I put either fob in the switch it does make the solenoid sound and I can use it like normal - no problems.
So I agree that something isn't immobilizing it when the key is in my pocket.
I have used techstream to do a sensing circuit test - The sensors can correctly identify the key in all positions - front, rear, left centre and rights spots, trunk/boot (Test where the buzzer sounds when the key is in the specified zone).
And when I approach the car the puddle lamps turn on correctly on either side of the car.
I have also purged and re-added the keys, changes batteries incase that had anything to do with it
Could there be an option somewhere that disables the keyless ignition switch somewhere but leaves all the other wireless features working?
Does it click if you hold the key next to the ignition switch but not in it?
Did you try pulling the steering left and right whilst pressing the ignition switch?
It could be that the antenna for the ignition switch RFID is defective.
I can't see any Techstream options for the ignition switch at all.
It sounds like your keys themselves are fine.
Silly question. My 2005 had keyless ignition I did not think my 2001 did. Right now I have the push button on smart key to unnlock but no keyless ignition. Can I get a key that works like my 2005 did?
2004 onwards had the SmartKey system.
Prior to that you push a button to unlock the door(s)(or use the key) and had to put the key in the ignition switch to start the engine.
Is it a valet key without the trunk button on it like the above?
Or is a regular key with the trunk button like the below:
I can't recall if there is any difference other than missing trunk button with the valet. Not sure if the valet works in pocket like the regular smart key or if you have to insert into ignition.
You mentioned 'keys' plural so I suspect you are trying with more than the valet, but if you are using that one, pull it out of the equation.
Okay so I have experimented a little. Took the battery transponder workings out of the key housing
The transponder needs to be near the ignition switch, somewhere in about 10cm/4inches or so.
The solenoid won't activate unless the spring loaded illuminated centre rod in the switch is pressed. That can be the empty key housing or a paddlepop stick or anything rigid enough to push it in about half an inch/10mm
I watched a youtube where a guy has some fancy car key programmer. In the first part gets a smart key to work to the level my key is working at fine for buttons, starting the car with the fob in switch, wireless doors etc.
But in the second half he had a second menu programming level he termed a prox setting menu (assuming that means proximity). Took all of 10 seconds and after that the switch just worked perfectly with fob in pocket.
I guess if this prox setting isn't in the techstream, it might be time to find an auto locksmith with one of those fancy tools.
A bit late in reply but I just came across this thread where someone had the same issue while researching an unrelated issue. Seems his key wasn't communicating with the Steering Lock ECU and he had to take it to the dealership. Might be worth a read through.
Smart key system... Mostly works except keyless ignition switch
