Dead smart key....

[AudiTech]

I bought my 2011 LE used, it came with smart key. It's been pretty convenient but lately the truck hasn't been consistently seeing the key when I walk up and touch the handle. No big deal, needs a battery. I looked a couple places for the battery when it was convenient but didn't put effort into actially going and finding one.

So this is probably no suprise to anyone but cold effects batteries. Saturday we skied at Winter Park, it was abut 20* out and my key was inside my pack while wee skied, the cold killed the rest of that remotes battery. I got to the truck and used the key blade to unlock it and get in but to my suprise the truck will not start if the remote battery is dead! Coming from dealing with the Kessey system in VWs and Audis with push button start if te remote dies you can hold it up to the steering column where a traditional key would normally go it will read it and the imobillizer will allow it to start. Am I missing something on the 4Runner or are you really SOL if the battery dies?

On a side note when I replaced the remote battery I found the smart keys DO hav a red LED that lights up when a button is depressed, apparently both keys had batteries low enough that the LED didn't light. Next time there's no LEF I'm replacing the battery immediately lol

 

[Eagle]

You can start with a dead battery. Hold the key fob up to the push button start with the Toyota emblem facing the start button, press the brake, and then press the start button.

Also, :rtfm:

 

[AudiTech]

Awesome, that's what I'm lookin for. I tired holding it to different areas of the column and dash with no luck. I ended up sticking the key down my pants and sitting on it for a while to unfreeze it and it finally started after about 20 minutes lol

 

[Eagle]

I ended up sticking the key down my pants and sitting on it for a while

Glad to hear the [MENTION=81573]Stifler[/MENTION] maneuver worked for you.

 

[1engineer]

Glad to hear the [MENTION=81573]Stifler[/MENTION] maneuver worked for you.

Quite sharp today aren't you counselor!

 

[AudiTech]

Also, :rtfm:

I love to if you have one to spare... used car, no main manual, it just had the warranty and nav booklets.

 

[1engineer]

I love to if you have one to spare... used car, no main manual, it just had the warranty and nav booklets.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/156678-2014-owners-manual-pdf.html
The main parts will be the same.

 

[Okki]

And instructions and pics on how to change the fob battery can also be found here:
Okki's Build Thread - Replacing The Key Fob Battery


Okki

 

[Stifler]

Glad to hear the [MENTION=81573]Stifler[/MENTION] maneuver worked for you.

well that is the modified Stifler move. I stuck it down your wife's pants.... but I guess it works either way

 

[BlackWorksInc]

I love to if you have one to spare... used car, no main manual, it just had the warranty and nav booklets.

When did you buy the 4Runner? You may be able to annoy the dealership to get you a spare key and manual? If not you can order both from the Dealer.

Toyota's smart key system is the same as most in respect to dead Key Fob batteries. You just have to pretty much hold the damn thing over the button for a couple seconds until the light goes green, if I remember right the system wants it to be Key OFF, Engine OFF when you do this; doesn't like it in Acc mode; I'll see if we have a Prius or 4Runner tomorrow to double check this on.

 

[uood8]

Toyota Owners Official Web Site: Service Coupons, Owner's Manuals, Service Scheduling And More

every manual available for 2011 or any other year is available.