How proximity smart keys work
A push-to-start vehicle senses your smart key when it is nearby, so you can unlock the doors and start the engine without ever taking the key out of your pocket or bag. Inside the key is a small transmitter that the car listens for. Because everything is wireless, a replacement has to be paired carefully so the vehicle accepts it and the convenience features work the way they should.
Seeing a key not detected message?
A key not detected or no key warning does not always mean the key has failed. The most common cause is a dead key battery, which can leave a strong key suddenly silent. Many vehicles let you start the car by holding the key against a marked spot or the start button as a backup. If a fresh battery does not solve it, the key may need to be re-paired, which falls under key programming.
All keys lost for a push-to-start vehicle
Losing every smart key for a push-to-start vehicle feels worse than it is. We can generate and pair a new proximity key for many makes, even with nothing left to copy. The job happens at your vehicle, so there is no tow to a dealer. For the broader all-keys-lost process, see our lost car key service.
Spare smart keys and brand differences
- A programmed spare smart key kept in a safe place
- Help when a key is lost, cracked, or stops responding
- Pairing that varies by brand, model, and year
- On-site service across the island, no dealer trip
Smart-key systems are not identical from one brand to the next, so the steps and timing differ by vehicle. Tell us your year, make, and model and we will confirm what we can do. If only the buttons are the trouble, our key fob replacement service may be the better fit, and standard cut-and-program work lives on our car key replacement page.
