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Does C-HR have keyless entry?

The short answer: yes. The Toyota C-HR generally offers keyless entry through Toyota's Smart Key System with Push Button Start, though the exact availability depends on the market, year, and trim level.


Keyless entry (often called Smart Key, Smart Entry, or Keyless Entry) allows you to unlock the doors and start the engine without removing the key fob from your pocket or bag. The convenience comes with variations in how it’s packaged across different markets and model years.


How the system works


With a compatible key fob in your vicinity, you typically can touch a door handle to unlock the car and press a start/stop button to power the engine. In some markets, features may also include remote start or phantom unlock/lock functions when the fob is nearby.


Regional and trim variations


United States


In the U.S., Toyota generally equips the C-HR with the Smart Key System with Push Button Start on most trims. Some base models or earlier releases may offer the feature as part of an option package, so it’s best to verify the exact configuration for the model year you’re considering.


Europe and UK


Across Europe and the United Kingdom, keyless entry is commonly included on mid-to-high trims and can be optional on entry-level versions. The availability can vary by engine choice and year, so checking the specific spec sheet for your region is recommended.


Other markets


In other regions, Toyota typically provides Smart Key/Keyless Entry as standard on higher trims or as part of regional packages. Always confirm with the local specification for the exact year and trim you’re interested in.


How to verify for your C-HR


To confirm keyless entry for your vehicle, check the official window sticker or the manufacturer’s spec sheet for your model year and trim. Look for terms such as “Smart Key System,” “Keyless Entry,” “Smart Entry,” or “Push Button Start.” If you’re unsure, ask the dealer or consult the owner’s manual or VIN-based build sheet for the precise features on your car.


Summary


The Toyota C-HR typically includes keyless entry via the Smart Key System with Push Button Start in most markets, but exact availability can vary by year, trim, and region. If this feature is important to you, confirm the specific configuration before purchase and verify what is included on the trim you choose.

What is the common issue with Toyota C-HR?


Common problems reported for the Toyota C-HR include issues with the CVT transmission in earlier models (2018), problems with the 12-volt battery and charging system, electrical gremlins like faulty warning lights, and paint-related concerns. Other less frequent issues include blind spot limitations, infotainment system glitches, and potential wear on interior materials.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the common problems with Toyota C-HR: 58sReDrivenYouTube · Oct 29, 2023
Powertrain and engine 

  • CVT transmission: Some 2018 models have reported noisy, grinding, or humming sounds, potentially due to a faulty final drive bearing. The fix can be expensive, as it may require replacing the entire transmission unit. 
  • 12-volt battery: The 12-volt battery can have issues, sometimes due to its small capacity and being drained by electronics. This can cause starting problems, even though it's not a major engine failure. 
  • Engine: In some cases, the engine oil level may rise above the maximum mark, though this is reportedly not a safety issue. 

Electrical and electronic systems 
  • TPMS sensors: A common issue is the failure of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors. 
  • Electrical gremlins: Other electrical problems can include faulty warning lights, general sensor malfunctions, and connectivity issues with the infotainment system. 
  • Pre-Collision System (PCS): The warning light may activate frequently in rainy or snowy conditions, but the system usually resolves itself once it dries. 

Body and interior
  • Paint: Some owners have reported issues with paint, especially on white models.
  • Interior wear: The leather on the steering wheel, gear knob, and seats can show wear over time.
  • Rear windows: Some 2020 models have experienced rear window cracking or shattering.
  • Blind spot: Due to the design of the C-HR, visibility is limited, which can make lane changes challenging and create a blind spot. 

Suspension
  • Shock absorbers: Early models sometimes had noisy shock absorbers. 
  • Suspension components: Owners have reported premature wear on some suspension components. 



How do I know if my car has keyless entry?


You can tell if your car has keyless entry by checking for a button on the door handles, seeing if your key fob has lock and unlock buttons, or by doing a simple test: with the fob far away, try pulling the handle; if it won't open, and then opens when you have the fob close by, you have keyless entry. You can also confirm by looking at your owner's manual or contacting the dealership and providing your VIN. 
Physical indicators

  • Key fob: Look for a physical key hidden inside your key fob. If you have to extract a physical key from the fob to manually unlock the door, your car does not have keyless entry. If the fob has no physical key and you must insert it into a slot to start the car, your car has keyless entry and likely a push-button start. 
  • Door handles: Look for a small button on the exterior of the door handles, especially the driver's side. 
  • Push-to-start button: If your car has a push-to-start button instead of a traditional key ignition, it likely has keyless entry. 

How to test for keyless entry
  • Perform the fob-and-door handle test:
    1. Place your key fob at least 25 feet away from your car.
    2. Go to your car and try to open the driver's door by pulling the handle. If the door is locked and won't open, you have a keyless entry system or your car was locked with a separate remote.
    3. Now, put the key fob in your pocket and walk back to the car.
    4. Pull the door handle again. If the door unlocks and opens, your car has keyless entry. 

Other methods to confirm
  • Check the owner's manual: The manual will specify if keyless entry is a feature of your vehicle. 
  • Contact a dealership: Provide them with your car's VIN, and they can look up its original features. 



What is the difference between Toyota C-HR XLE and Limited?


The Toyota C-HR is available in three trim levels, starting with the LE, which is more competitive against other subcompact crossovers when it comes to price. The XLE adds a few niceties and safety features, while the top Limited trim gets you leather upholstery, upgraded front seats and some additional tech features.



Why is Toyota discontinuing the C-HR?


The Toyota C-HR was discontinued in North America after the 2022 model year due to low sales compared to the more popular Corolla Cross, which offers a combination of utility and efficiency. Other factors contributing to its discontinuation included its small interior space, underpowered engine, and the fact that it was only available in front-wheel drive. The Corolla Cross was the more practical choice for buyers and has become the smallest crossover in Toyota's lineup.
 

  • Lower sales: The C-HR never reached the sales figures of competing models, and even the Corolla Cross sold significantly more units when it was introduced. 
  • Practicality issues: The C-HR's stylish, coupe-like design came at the cost of a cramped rear seat and limited cargo space. 
  • Performance: The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 144 horsepower was seen as underpowered, and it was only offered in a front-wheel-drive configuration, which was less appealing to consumers looking for more capability. 
  • Internal competition: The Corolla Cross was a more practical and appealing option that cannibalized C-HR sales and offered all-wheel drive, which was a key feature for many buyers. 
  • Product lineup evaluation: Toyota is constantly evaluating its product lineup, and the C-HR's discontinuation made way for other models like the Corolla Cross, which offered a better combination of utility and efficiency for the compact SUV segment. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.