Both my parents and I recently purchased 2011 Prius'. We are very happy with the car but came across something strange this weekend. I was driving with my parents in their Prius, but had by smart key FOB in my purse, an error message came across the screen stating that the key could not be located. The first time this happened the car was already started and continued to drive, but the second time the car would not even start until I took my key out. Has anyone else came across this problem? Is there someplace in the car that I can store my key so the car does not get confused by 2 different FOB's (I was sitting in the back seat)?
It can happen. Once started, a Prius will continue to operate, even if a valid key is not present. There are a few dead spots where you can hide your key, generally in the area of the back seat, but it's not a sure thing. You can wrap your fob in metal foil, or place it inside a metal can if the can properly seals. Alternately, start the Prius before the second fob enters the car. Tom
It would be nice if Toyota would make these key fobs so that one key could be programmed so that it would run two cars. I either need to get a "man purse" (not going to happen) or continue to switch keys when I switch cars.
If you have two FOBs in the car, bring the one for the car close to the start button and start the car. No need to wrap other FOB in tin foil.
You can also place your fob at the on switch (immobilizer) - there is a small RF antenna that allows the car to pair with the fob - even if the battery in the fob died...
Good point. Each fob contains an RFID chip that works with near field communication. The RFID remains effective even when the SKS no longer functions. On a Gen II Prius, insert the fob into the slot instead of holding close to the switch. Tom
