Do Keyless Start Cars Have a Keyhole?
3 Answers
Some keyless start models do have a keyhole. Typically, the hidden mechanical keyhole is located behind the keyless start button and can be accessed by prying out the plastic button. There are three methods to start a keyless start car when the remote key fob is out of battery: 1. Remote key slot: When the remote key fob is out of battery, you can insert it into this slot, wait a moment for the vehicle to detect the key, and then start the car. 2. Hidden mechanical keyhole: Insert the key blade from the remote key fob into the keyhole, and start the car as you would with a conventional vehicle. 3. Place the remote key fob against the keyless start button: When the remote key fob is out of battery, place it against the keyless start button, wait for the vehicle to detect the key, and then start the car normally.
I've been driving a keyless start car for several years, and this feature is incredibly convenient. Normally, starting the engine is just a button press away—no need to fumble with inserting a key, so there isn't even a dedicated keyhole to start the engine. But the designers were pretty smart; they left a backup keyhole for the door, hidden in the door handle, just in case the key battery dies and you need to unlock it manually. Additionally, some cars have an emergency start port tucked away under the steering wheel or inside the glove compartment—just touch it with the key to ignite. Speaking of key batteries, I've noticed they need replacing after about a year or so; otherwise, you might run into trouble at the worst possible moment. All in all, while this system is hassle-free, it's also important to keep an eye on safety backups.
Having played with cars for years, I've observed that vehicles with one-button start have largely phased out the traditional keyhole ignition method, as wireless key systems are so advanced—just press a button and the engine roars to life. However, engineers haven't forgotten to leave a backup plan. There's usually a hidden emergency keyhole near the door or center console for unlocking in emergencies. For starting the car, you might occasionally need to place the key near a specific induction zone. This design reduces wear and tear risks, but keep an eye on the key's battery—the system will alert you when it's running low. I believe the owner's manual is a treasure trove, as it clearly marks the location of these emergency access points.
