Toyota Smart Key

[pickerdd]

My wife and I drove a 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited V6 AWD a couple of weeks and it had the Smart Key system. Evidently it's standard in all the RAV 4 limited's for 2009. The vehicle entry was really convenient, but what I really liked was the start button.

Has anyone tried a mod on the 4Runner and install a start button like the one on the RAV4? I'm assuming it's the same technology that used on other Toyota vehicles.

It sure would be nice not to have my keys banging around the dash when I turn and such.

 

[djj1973]

I'd like to see it standard on the 4 Runner. It's a real nice feature.

Derek

 

[toto]

Part of that system is in the 4Runner's computer somewhere, because 4Runner has a feature where you don't have to hold the key in the "start" position to keep cranking the engine. A momentary turn of the key to "start" gets the computer to start the engine.

It's not as easy as replacing the key with a button, though, because our keys have the transponder chips in them. The computer won't start the car without the right key being in the ignition.

I'm surprised that Smart Key hasn't gotten to the 4Runner yet. I agree, it's a cool feature.

 

[shuly]

The 4runner DOES have the tech for a mod like this to work. The autocrank feature is all you need. The key is just a button. Once the car detects the programmed key number all you have to do is press a button. Should be an easy mod since you can already buy the buttons and such for other toyotas. The sensor which detects the key is already in the ignition switch, so it might be even as simple by changing to a "start" button. If you go ahead and try this post some pics...I would love to see/hear how it went.

I still prefer a key...it feels more like I am actually doing something.

 

[lawwailok]

the smart key is a cool new feature for easier entry access. i haven't try this on a new Rav4 yet and not sure if that will work. for instance, after you hopped into the car but you don't want to start it right up, does the smart key allow you to turn on the radio? turn on the vent? without starting the car, like on normal key, you can turn it into the "ON" position before crank, you have power to the car in order to turn on air vent, radio system.

since smart key push start button is only either ON or OFF the car, wouldn't that eliminate the turn key to "ON" position?

 

[K.C.]

the smart key is a cool new feature for easier entry access. i haven't try this on a new Rav4 yet and not sure if that will work. for instance, after you hopped into the car but you don't want to start it right up, does the smart key allow you to turn on the radio? turn on the vent? without starting the car, like on normal key, you can turn it into the "ON" position before crank, you have power to the car in order to turn on air vent, radio system.

since smart key push start button is only either ON or OFF the car, wouldn't that eliminate the turn key to "ON" position?

When I had a Camry Hybrid Loaner for a day...I played w/ the Smart Key & Push Start Button.

If you press the Push Start Button...it'll go to ON, so you can turn on the radio & vents.

The car won't start till you depress the brake pedal before pressing the Push Start Button.

 

[lawwailok]

When I had a Camry Hybrid Loaner for a day...I played w/ the Smart Key & Push Start Button.

If you press the Push Start Button...it'll go to ON, so you can turn on the radio & vents.

The car won't start till you depress the brake pedal before pressing the Push Start Button.

thanks K.C.!!!!!! you solved my biggest question i always have in my mind on those new smart key thing,

 

[Iowa4Runner]

Part of that system is in the 4Runner's computer somewhere, because 4Runner has a feature where you don't have to hold the key in the "start" position to keep cranking the engine. A momentary turn of the key to "start" gets the computer to start the engine.

It's not as easy as replacing the key with a button, though, because our keys have the transponder chips in them. The computer won't start the car without the right key being in the ignition.

I'm surprised that Smart Key hasn't gotten to the 4Runner yet. I agree, it's a cool feature.

What surprised the ^&%$ out of me is that a plain key (without the RFID chip) will still crank the starter, even though the engine's ignition is disabled. Crazy. It's like Toyota built in a theft attempt self destruct mode.

The built-in computer controlled crank feature is great, and it makes it a lot simpler to make a DIY remote starter. A momentary press of the rear window button on the OEM key fob gives me start / stop control from the comfort of my office!