The Toyota Fortuner is a popular SUV known for its ruggedness, reliability, and advanced features. However, like any vehicle, it can experience issues that may prevent it from starting, including a “key not detected” error. This error can be frustrating and confusing, especially if you are unfamiliar with the underlying causes and potential solutions. In this article, we will explore some common reasons why a Toyota Fortuner may display a “key not detected” error and offer some tips on how to start the engine when faced with this issue.
Key fob battery is dead
The key fob, also known as a remote keyless entry system, is a convenient feature in modern vehicles that allows drivers to lock and unlock their car doors remotely and start the engine without using a traditional key. However, like any electronic device, the battery in the key fob can eventually wear out, leading to issues such as a “key not detected” error.
If your Toyota Fortuner displays a “key not detected, check key location” error, the first thing you should check is the battery in the key fob. A dead battery can prevent the key fob from sending the signal needed to start the engine, even if the key is in close proximity to the vehicle.
To replace the battery in your Toyota Fortuner key fob, you will need to open the case and locate the battery compartment. You can use the metal key inside the key fob to open the case. Once the battery compartment is open, carefully remove the old battery and replace it with a new one, being sure to match the polarity markings on the battery and compartment.
After replacing the battery, test the key fob to ensure that it is working properly. If the “key not detected” error persists, there may be other underlying issues that require further diagnosis and repair by a qualified technician.
Starting the engine with dead key fob battery
If you have a Toyota Fortuner and the battery in your key fob is dead or not functioning properly, you may still be able to start the engine.
Touch the key fob with the engine start stop button and then depress the brake pedal and push the start stop button. The sensor behind the start stop button will recognize the original key and start the engine.
It is important to note that the key fob touch sensor feature is designed as a temporary solution for starting the engine when the battery in the key fob is dead or not functioning properly. Once the engine is started using the touch sensor, it is recommended that you replace the battery in the key fob as soon as possible to avoid any further issues.
Defective key fob
If you have tried the key fob touch sensor feature, but still cannot start the engine of your Toyota Fortuner, the issue may be a defective key fob. In this case, it is recommended that you try using your spare key fob to start the vehicle.
If you are unable to start the engine with either key fob, it is possible that there may be other underlying issues with your Toyota Fortuner that require further diagnosis and repair by a qualified technician.
Disconnect the 12v battery to reset the system
If you have tried the methods above and are still unable to start the engine of your Toyota Fortuner, it is possible that a glitch or error in the vehicle’s electronic system may be causing the issue. In such a situation, one possible solution is to reset all the vehicle’s computers by disconnecting the battery for about 15 minutes.
To reset the vehicle’s computers, first locate the battery in your Toyota Fortuner. It is typically located in the engine compartment. Once you have located the battery, use a wrench to loosen and remove the negative cable (black) from the battery terminal. Then remove the positive cable (red). Make sure to secure the cable away from the battery terminal to avoid accidental reconnection.
Leave the battery disconnected for approximately 15 minutes to ensure that all the vehicle’s computers are reset. After 15 minutes, reconnect the positive terminal cable first and then reconnect the negative cable to the battery terminal and tighten it securely with the wrench.
Once the battery has been reconnected, try starting the engine. If the engine starts successfully, it is likely that the glitch has been resolved. However, if the issue persists, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of a qualified technician for further diagnosis and repair.
I have been trying to unlock my Toyota Fortuner with key but it’s not working because it’s battery has been dead since last one month can you help me how to open the door?