When Problems Occur. Emergency Procedures

If the electronic key does not function properly

8steps
~48min
2/5difficulty
Done 0 of 8

If the electronic key of the Lexus GS (4th generation) fails, for example due to a discharged battery, this chapter provides useful information. It explains how to open the doors and luggage compartment mechanically and how to start the engine using the emergency start procedure. Important warnings concern the safe use of mechanical functions to avoid pinching or triggering the alarm. This keeps the Lexus GS usable even when the key has problems.

If communication between the electronic key and the vehicle is interrupted, or the electronic key cannot be used because its battery is depleted, the smart entry & start system and the remote control cannot be used. In this case, follow the procedure below to open the doors and trunk and start the engine.

Locking and unlocking the doors, unlocking the trunk and key-related functions

■ Doors

 Türen

Use the mechanical key for the following functions:

  1. Lock all doors
  2. Close windows and sunroof (turn and hold position)*
  3. Unlock all doors
  4. Open windows and sunroof (turn and hold position)*

*: Customization of this setting must be performed at a Lexus dealer or repairer, or another qualified and properly equipped workshop.

■ Trunk

 Kofferraum

Turn the mechanical key clockwise to open.

Starting the engine

  1. Make sure the shift lever is in "P", and depress the brake pedal.
  2. Touch the engine switch with the side of the electronic key that has the Lexus emblem.

    When the electronic key is detected, a buzzer sounds and the engine switch changes to IGNITION ON mode.

    If the smart entry & start system has been deactivated through customization, the engine switch changes to ACCESSORY mode.

    Starten des Motors
  3. Firmly depress the brake pedal and check thatand a message (GS F only) is shown on the multi-information display.
  4. Press the engine switch.

If the engine still cannot be started, contact a Lexus dealer or repairer, or another qualified and properly equipped workshop.

■ Stopping the engine

Shift the shift lever to "P", and press the engine switch as usual to stop the engine.

■ Replacing the key battery

Since the procedure described above is a temporary measure, it is recommended that the electronic key battery be replaced immediately when it is depleted.

■ Alarm system (if equipped)

When the doors are locked using the mechanical key, the alarm system is not activated.

If the alarm system is activated, unlocking a door with the mechanical key may trigger the alarm.

■ Changing the engine switch modes

Release the brake pedal, and press the engine switch in step 3 above.

The engine does not start, and the mode changes each time the switch is pressed.

■ If the electronic key does not operate correctly

  • Make sure the smart entry & start system has not been deactivated through customization. If it is off, turn the function on.
  • Check whether the battery saver function is enabled. If it is enabled, disable the function.

WARNING

■ When using the mechanical key to operate the power windows or sunroof (if equipped)

Before operating the power windows or sunroof, make sure that no part of a passenger's body can become caught in a window or the sunroof.

Also make sure that children do not operate the mechanical key. Children or other passengers could become trapped in a window or the sunroof.

The Lexus GS GRL1 (4th generation) is designed to provide the highest level of protection for occupants and outsiders in the event of a collision. From the airbag system and crumple zones to the automatic fuel pump shut-off, every detail is intended to protect everyone involved. The instructions on how to respond after a collision help you handle the situation as well as possible.

This sports sedan clearly demonstrates that driving dynamics and safety go hand in hand at Lexus. This is how the Lexus GS 2016–2020 remains a reliable companion even in exceptional situations.

The clear structure of the safety instructions actively supports the driver in stressful situations and underlines the premium character of the vehicle.

Test yourself

A quick Lexus GS quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.