Keyless ignition systems, a good or bad idea?

[Michael Sackstein]

Hello Eric,
Hope you’re having a good time at Sema. I just thought of another suggestion, and I know I’ve had many so thank you very much for your input and responses lol. Anyways I’m sure you’ve probably noticed that a lot of modern vehicles these days are equipped with keyless ignition systems. A lot of manufacturers are moving towards this idea including Toyota and Honda. Basically the remote fob has some sort of motion sensor inside that sends information to the computer when you’re inside the car, you hold down the brake and clutch also in some cases (if equipped with a manual transmission), and that allows you to start your car. However when those things break as I’m sure you know, they can cost a small fortune to fix, and they do break. Of course this isn’t the only electronic computer device that modern cars are equipped with. many cars also have an electronic throttle body system in lieu of a cable. same idea more less but different system. Then there’s electronic parking brakes, smart key access systems, electronic tailgate openers, and the list goes on and on. I know Scotty has made videos covering his opinions on these vehicle integrations as well as a brief synopsis on how to repair them, but I figured I’d mention this one to you also to see if maybe you’d be willing to bring this topic up in a future ETCG1 video and maybe somewhere down the road in a step by step repair video. Some vehicles do require advanced computerized equipment to recalibrate the system after these repairs are made and I’m not sure if the keyless ignition system is linked to the proprietary immobilizer system, which would require a visit to the dealership or if you’re lucky a bonded locksmith. So let me know what you think, and I look forward to hearing from you. Stay Dirty!

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[EricTheCarGuy]

Thanks for your suggestion. Yes, Scotty is never afraid to let people know what he thinks. It’s just the way he is. I know this first had because I know the man personally.

As for keyless systems, it’s just another electronic system to me. Electronics all work the same, and in my opinion electricity is not as difficult as most people perceive. In my opinion, I think it would be of better benefit to do more videos on electrical diagnostics over being specific to keyless systems. That way, no matter what electrical problem should come up, you’d have a better understanding of how to deal with it.

Thanks again for your suggestions.

[Author]

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