If you drive a new Toyota with a Smart Key, then you know just how convenient it can be to have one - especially if you have the push button start option in your vehicle. However, you might also - at one point or another - find yourself wondering just how you're supposed to get your car open if the Smart Key stops working. No worries... Toyota of Clermont is here to help with expert tips from our auto service experts.
What is a Toyota Smart Key, and how does it work?
As you probably already know, the Toyota Smart Key is a super-convenient feature that we actually have in quite a few of our new Toyotas here at Toyota of Clermont. This system includes a key fob, sensors in your door handles (and possibly also in your rear liftgate handle), and a push button start feature inside the cabin to get your car up and running as efficiently as possible. Here are the basics - if you have the Toyota Smart Key on your person - even if it's in your pocket or purse - you can unlock and lock your doors (as well as open your rear liftgate) by simply touching the sensors. Further, if you have the key on you when you slide into the driver's seat of your Clermont Toyota, then you can simply push the push button start to get the engine going. It's super convenient; you don't have to dig around for your keys like you would if you had a hard mechanical key.
But here's the one possible sticking point - what do you do if your Smart Key stops working? How can you enter and start your car without it? Check out this explanation from our Clermont auto service techs.
What happens if your key stops working?
Basically, if your Smart Key stops working because its battery died, you can still utilize it. Each Toyota Smart Key has a mechanical key hidden within it - you just pull it out. To unlock your car, simply remove the mechanical key and use it in your door lock. Starting the car is a different story; push button start cars don't have an ignition for you to stick a key in. Our auto service techs advised that you can simply hold the key fob next to the start button and you should be able to get things up and running as usual. If your car won't start, then you may be facing a problem with your actual car battery (not the key fob battery) - this will cause the automatic locks to stop working and also the car to refuse to turn over.
OK, but what if you LOSE your Toyota Smart Key - what then? Well, the bad news is that you won't be able to get into or start your car (unless you have a spare key). The good news is that we can help out at Toyota of Clermont. You'll need to bring some things with you - like your VIN number, proof of ownership of the car, and a photo I.D. - and we'll then be able to look up your Smart Key code number. We can get you a new key, reprogram your new Toyota, and ensure that your new key works and the old key doesn't (in case someone finds it or stole it).
Need help? Call Toyota of Clermont today. We're open seven days a week at (352) 404-7001 and conveniently located at 16851 State Road 50, just west of the Florida Turnpike.
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