How does a digital key work for Lexus?
Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of Toyota, has introduced digital keys that allow drivers to unlock and start their vehicles using a smartphone app. This innovative technology provides Lexus owners with added convenience and security when accessing their vehicles.
What is a Digital Key?
A digital key is a virtual version of a traditional physical car key that is stored on a compatible smartphone. It allows the user to perform various functions, such as unlocking, locking, and starting the vehicle, without the need to carry a physical key fob.
How Does a Lexus Digital Key Work?
The Lexus digital key system works as follows:
- The digital key is securely stored on the user's compatible smartphone, which acts as the primary access device.
- To unlock the vehicle, the user simply needs to approach the car and hold their smartphone near the door handle. The car will detect the digital key and unlock the doors automatically.
- To start the vehicle, the user can place their smartphone in the designated wireless charging area, and the car will recognize the digital key and allow the engine to be started.
- The digital key can also be shared with other authorized users, allowing them to access the vehicle using their own smartphones.
This technology provides Lexus owners with added convenience and security, as they no longer need to carry a physical key fob and can easily share access with family members or trusted individuals.
Benefits of Lexus Digital Keys
The Lexus digital key system offers several benefits to owners:
- Convenience: Owners can access their vehicle without the need to carry a physical key fob, which can be easily lost or misplaced.
- Security: The digital key is securely stored on the user's smartphone, reducing the risk of theft or unauthorized access.
- Sharing Access: Owners can easily share digital keys with family members or trusted individuals, allowing them to access the vehicle as needed.
- Reduced Costs: Replacing a lost or damaged physical key fob can be expensive, but a digital key can be easily restored on a new smartphone.
Overall, the Lexus digital key system provides a seamless and secure way for owners to access their vehicles, offering enhanced convenience and peace of mind.
Are there any downsides to using a digital key?
By allowing an individual the opportunity to access their car keys through their smartphone, cars become susceptible to hacking. From there, hackers can break into the manufacturer's program, and tamper with an individual's car — when they might previously not have had the chance to do so.
Can I start my Lexus without the key fob?
Yes, you can start a Lexus without a key fob by using the emergency key to enter and then holding the dead fob directly against the start button. If you have a Lexus digital key, you can use your phone to enter and start the car without a physical fob at all.
If your key fob has a dead battery
- Unlock the door: Remove the physical key from the bottom of your key fob by pushing the release button. Look for a hidden key cylinder, usually behind a small cover on the driver's door handle, and use the physical key to unlock the door.
- Start the car: Get inside the vehicle and place the dead key fob directly against the push-to-start button. Make sure your foot is on the brake and press the start button with the fob to start the engine.
- Get a new battery: This method is for emergencies only. You should get a new battery for your key fob as soon as possible to avoid future issues.
This video demonstrates how to open and start your Lexus with a dead key fob: 58sPYR Automotive YouTube · May 21, 2025
If you have a Lexus digital key
- Set up the digital key: You must first set up the digital key feature through the Lexus app to link your phone to your vehicle.
- Enter and start: Once set up, you can enter the vehicle and start the engine simply by having your phone with you.
You can watch this video to learn more about using a digital key: 1mPerformance Lexus Northern KentuckyYouTube · Feb 6, 2018
How does a Lexus digital key work?
Lexus Digital Key uses your smartphone's Bluetooth and the Lexus app to function as a key for locking, unlocking, and starting your vehicle. To use it, you must first set up the digital key through the Lexus app. Once set up, you can use the app to remotely control the car or use the phone's proximity to the vehicle to unlock and start it by simply having it nearby.
This video explains how to set up and use the Lexus Digital Key: 59sNorth Park Lexus at DominionYouTube · Nov 14, 2024
How it works
- Setup: You must first add your vehicle to your garage in the Lexus app and follow the prompts to set up the digital key.
- Pairing: The digital key downloads to your phone after you complete the setup and verify your account. You will need to use the physical key fob initially to pair it to the vehicle.
- Bluetooth connection: The digital key relies on your phone's Bluetooth to communicate with the car. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
- Proximity unlock and start: When your phone is within a certain range of the vehicle, it can automatically unlock the doors when you approach and allow you to start the engine without taking your phone out.
- Remote functions: You can also use the Lexus app to remotely lock/unlock the car, start the engine, or perform other functions, even from a distance, as long as both your phone and the car have a data connection.
Key requirements
A smartphone with the Lexus app installed, An active Lexus Remote Connect subscription, and Bluetooth enabled on your smartphone.
You can watch this video to learn more about the features of the Lexus app: 1mPerformance LexusYouTube · Sep 14, 2024
Do you have to pay for a Lexus digital key?
Digital Key requires an active trial/subscription to Lexus Remote Connect with Digital Key. Use only if aware of circumstances surrounding vehicle and it is legal and safe to do so (eg., do not remotely start motor if vehicle is occupied by child).
