4 Reasons Why Your Push Button Start Doesn't Work

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Push Start Ignitions

If you purchased a car in the last few years, you were probably given a way to start it without inserting a normal key into the ignition slot. A keyless entry system, by definition, allows the driver to keep the key fob in his or her pocket while unlocking, locking, and starting the vehicle.

The smart key is recognised by one of several antennas in the vehicle's bodywork and a radio pulse generator in the key housing. Depending on the system, the vehicle is automatically unlocked when a button or sensor on the door handle or boot release is pressed.

Pioneered by Siemens in 1995 and introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 1998 under the name "Key-less Go," manufacturers worldwide are gradually transitioning to keyless car transponders in favour of convenience, with some brands, such as Audi and BMW, making it a standard, adopting the technology way ahead of everyone else.

Reasons For Not Push Button Working

• The key fob's battery needs to be replaced - This is one of the most common causes of a key fob not working. The good news is that replacing the battery is simple if you follow the instructions in your owner's manual. You can take it to local garage if in doubt when searching for full car service near me and they will replace it for you if you prefer. In the meantime, try starting the vehicle again by holding the key fob close to the push button start.
• Make sure the brake is firmly pressed - The brake must be pressed in order for the engine to start with push button start. Try applying a little more pressure with your foot and restarting the engine.
• There could be a problem with the starter motor - If your push button start works sometimes but not others, it's possible that your starter motor needs to be replaced. Other possible culprits include a faulty battery under the bonnet or in the key fob itself. To find and fix the problem, make sure to have it diagnosed by a professional or get some advice by a local garage by searching for car service near me.
• When in doubt, restart - Attempting to start the car with the push button start too many times can effectively lock out the system. We recommend exiting the vehicle with the key fob, then re-entering the vehicle with the fob and repeating the process.

Let's take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of always having your key fob in your pocket, and perhaps learn something about how we take such a simple convenience for granted.

What is the operation of push-button start systems?

In push-button start vehicles, a keyless ignition system is used. While the systems differ, they all have one thing in common, they use a key fob instead of the traditional metal key. The fob must be inside the vehicle for the computer system to recognise it and allow the driver to start the vehicle simply by pressing a button.

The key fob acts as a transmitter, transmitting a low-frequency signal to the vehicle. When you insert the fob into the car and press the button, the car's receiver detects the signal and sends power to start the engine.

Keyless entry was implemented with the goal of reducing car thefts, in addition to convenience. Stealing your car will be more difficult because the car will only recognise the signal from that one fob. As a safety precaution, the car must be in park and the driver's foot must be on the brake before starting it.

While pushing that button, which is often integrated with the modern, cockpit-like design of the dashboard is certainly cool, industry watchdogs have raised concerns about keyless start systems, prompting car manufactures to implement new safety measures.

The technology that distinguishes the modern push start is, of course, what sets it apart. While this makes it more sophisticated and user-friendly, some drivers and industry observers are concerned.

The Benefits of Push Start Ignitions

• Operate without the use of hands - When your hands are full from grocery shopping or carrying stacks of office files, nothing beats being able to unlock the car by simply tapping a button with any part of your body. The doors and trunk should be open as long as you're within range of the vehicle.
• Additional Layers of Security - You feel safer knowing that starting your car requires a unique code (which means it is less vulnerable to theft!). In cars with keyless, push-button ignition, an electronic key fob is recognised by the car to authorise driving and the use of power accessories. To authorise the transponder, a code that the vehicle's computer searches for must be used. Until the code is entered, the vehicle will not start or unlock. In some systems, computer-encrypted microchips are also used. These features add even more security layers.
• Automatic Locking - We all remember when you've had to walk back to the parking lot because you couldn't remember whether or not you had locked your car. After parking, some vehicles have a system that allows the driver to simply walk away. After a short distance, the car will automatically lock, just as if you had pressed the lock button on the door or key fob. It effectively eliminates the possibility of leaving one's car unlocked.

The Drawbacks of Push Start Ignitions

• The Cost - Yes, the cost of a keyless fob and push-button ignition is included in the price of the vehicle. However, it wears out over time, just like any other electronic component, to the point where you must replace the entire key fob or repair the entire system. It can be costly just to be able to start your car again.
• Your Car Is Still Running - When you leave your car with the engine running, the manufacturers will instal all of the warning lights and chimes. Some cars run so quietly that if you rush to your errand on a congested or busy street or parking lot, you may leave the car running. Yes, some cars will typically shut down as a safety feature, but if your brand or model lacks it, your vehicle will, in theory, continue to run until it runs out of gas. If you park your car in a closed garage attached to your home, the possibility of carbon monoxide entering your home creates a dangerous situation.
• Thieves are becoming more sophisticated - Keyless entry systems make car theft more difficult. With computerised controls, however, hackers will devise new methods to steal your vehicle. Key programming tools and chips can be found online, but they can only be purchased by authorised dealers and mechanics. In the wrong hands, these tools can easily reprogram a blank key fob to your car's transponder code, or even hack into the vehicle's electronic systems to operate it. That's a lot of scary stuff.

The Final Word

Finally, while convenience is always a plus, prospective buyers of these vehicles should be aware of the disadvantages of having such a feature. When it comes to safety, common sense always prevails, such as parking in a secure and well-lit area, turning off the engine, and understanding what lights or chimes your vehicle emits to indicate that you may be doing something incorrectly.

Vehicles with smart-key systems have a mechanical backup, which is typically in the form of a spare key blade included with the vehicle. If you have any doubts, consult your car mechanic during your next car service in Reading.