Experiencing issues with your car’s key fob can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it seems like a major malfunction. Imagine this: you approach your beloved Lexus, press the button on your 2 Button Key Fob to unlock it, and nothing happens. You try again, and still no response. Using the physical key to open the door triggers the alarm, and the engine refuses to start. This exact scenario happened to a Lexus LS400 owner, highlighting a surprisingly simple fix for what appeared to be a significant problem with their 2 button key fob system.
Initially faced with this problem, the owner of a 1995 Lexus MkIII LS400 understandably felt a wave of panic. The car door would open manually with the key, but this immediately set off the car alarm. Even worse, the engine was completely immobilized, despite all the lights and other electrical systems working perfectly. Attempts to lock and unlock with the 2 button key fob were futile, and even basic checks like interior lights and battery condition showed no obvious issues. A call to Lexus offered limited immediate assistance due to it being a Saturday and the unavailability of the full technical team. It seemed like a potentially expensive and complicated repair was looming.
However, the story took a dramatically positive turn thanks to a helpful service manager at Lexus Guildford. Colin Searl, a service manager with experience dating back to 1995, provided a solution over the phone that required no tools or technical expertise. His insight was based on the knowledge that ’95 and ’96 Lexus models, like the LS400, were often equipped with a Scorpion T5000 alarm and immobilizer system. These systems were paired with the original 2 button key fobs and known for being complex to repair or replace, often necessitating a complete aftermarket system installation if any part failed.
The simple yet effective fix Colin suggested involved the slider switch located on the side of the 2 button key fob. He instructed the owner to slide this switch up and down a few times. Remarkably, this simple action resolved the entire issue. The car immediately unlocked itself, and the engine started without a problem. It turned out that if the slider switch isn’t fully positioned at either end of its travel, it can cause malfunctions within the key fob system, leading to the exact symptoms experienced. It’s plausible that the switch had been inadvertently moved while the key fob was in a pocket, triggering the problem.
This incident serves as a valuable lesson for owners of older Lexus vehicles with 2 button key fobs. Before assuming a major electronic failure and considering costly replacements, it’s worth checking the simple things first. In this case, a quick flick of the slider switch on the 2 button key fob was all it took to resolve a seemingly critical car issue. This highlights not only the potential quirks of older car alarm systems but also the immense value of expert knowledge and customer service provided by dealerships like Lexus Guildford. For anyone experiencing similar problems with their 2 button key fob, especially on a classic Lexus model, this simple slider switch trick is definitely worth trying before seeking more complex and expensive solutions. And remember, for any key fob programming or repair needs, always consult experts to ensure proper and reliable functionality of your vehicle’s security system.
