Push-Button Start System: No-Start Problems

The latest cars are past the key ignition start method. Now, you pump the brake pedal and then push a button to start the car. It all seems so simple until there’s a glitch.

But what brings about glitches? Just like in other systems, push-button starts in stages. Identifying the exact stage at which the system fails is key to knowing the cause.

The answers to the following questions should help you.

Are the dashboard lights coming on when you push the button?If the lights don’t come on, your battery may be discharged, or a terminal may have lost contact. You may have to boost the car and run tests on the battery.

Is the warning light that says "Key Not Found" on?

Button start cars normally require that the key fob is in the car for it to start. The security system detects the fob using wireless transmitter-receiver signal communication. If the fob battery is drained, the car will no longer be able to detect it. The solution is below.

Is the car starting when you place the key fob close to the button or insert it in the key slot?

Place the fob near the button or insert it if there’s a slot. If this starts the car, then the fault is from a low fob battery. Use your spare key to see if things are different. You can replace your fob battery at a car dealership.

Are the brake lights coming on when you pump the brakes?

A push-button system also requires that the brake be pushed for the car to start. The security system detects the brake via a light switch that turns on the brake lights when the brake is depressed. Your brake lights failing to work may indicate a fault in the circuity of the switch. Some cars indicate on the dashboard that you should push the brake pedal. If this indicator stays on while the brake is pressed, then the brake switch itself may be at fault, and brake failure may be the reason why your car is not starting.

Is the transmission gear indicator reading "Park"?

Cars with push-button start systems are automatic and can only be turned on with transmission in the "Park" or "Neutral" positions. If the switch of a gear selector is faulty, in some cars, when the transmission is shifted to "Park," the car will register that it is not, and will not start. In other cars, "Neutral" transmission may start the car while "Park" does not. This shows that the gear selector switch is not functioning appropriately.

• When you press the start button, what transpires? Do the instrument lights begin to blink only, or is there a click with the gauges moving?

If your car battery is weak, it may have little power but not sufficient to ignite the engine. And so, when you push the start button, the lights on the dashboard may begin to blink, but there’ll be no further outcome.

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About the Author

Automotive locks and keys expert from Austin Texas.

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