Bad Key

[Kinderhook]

I own a 2009 RS with 23,000 miles, all trouble free. In the past two months a strange issue has emerged. After shutting down for a period of time, but still warm, the Spyder won't start. The key is on, the normal message about safety is displayed and cleared by pressing the mode button. I hit the starter and nothing happens; no sound or message just nothing. After turning the key off and on a few times, and pressing the kill switch on and off a few times a message scrolls across the screen "Bad Key". Once the "Bad Key" message appears it usually starts normally, but only after turning the key off and on again. How does the DESS system detect the key? Is this a part that can be replaced/repaired or is it built in to the electronic module that controls the dash etc.? I really don't think the key is bad as it still turns everything on as it should and opens all compartments as expected and there is no battery in the key to run down. All normal startup actions happen as expected, Tach and Speedometer cycle and warning lights all test normal. The key is solid state and it should either work or not work but I don't see any way that it could be "weak". My concern, of course, is that one day it will not start and leave me stranded far from home.

Any experience with a similar issue, or ideas? I have tried to duplicate the problem at my dealer but since the issue only happens once in a while it always works perfectly when he looks at it (Don't all gremlins work that way!).:gaah::gaah::gaah:

 

[Bob Denman]

We need an expert on just how these "chipped" keys work to step in here... :shocked:
I kind of thought that they had to have some sort of power source in them; I just never thought about what it might have to be.

Do these things run down over time?

 

[NancysToy]

It is detected electronically, and is wireless. The key just needs to be in close proximity. If your other key works OK, then you have a bad key. It needs to be reprogrammed or replaced by the dealer. If your other key does the same thing, the DESS module is probably bad, and should be replaced (along with the keys). Time to see the dealer...and don't delay, it could leave you stranded very soon.

 

[billybovine]

The DESS module communicates with the chip in the key through an antenna press fit around the ignition key switch. During startup the DESS will send a signal to the chip in the key and the chip in the key will respond with a code. The DESS will wait up to 60 seconds for a response from the key before giving you a bad key message but while it's waiting it will not start. This may explain your symptoms. The key can go bad so start using your other key and see if it works better. Another possible cause is the connection between the DESS and the antenna. The signal from the key is so weak that any resistance in the connection between the two could cause a problem. So find the antenna connector and check for corrosion or water. If it's another problem it starts getting expensive.

 

[finless]

What powers the chip in the key?

Bob

 

[billybovine]

What powers the chip in the key?

Bob

Magnetic field from the antenna induces voltage in the key chip. No battery required.

 

[Bob Denman]

That's what I was wondering too! Thanks! :thumbup:

 

[Chupaca]

Interesting..!!

we know most vehicles all have these keys now. Some are in fact battery powered and the battery will need replacing in time. Newer models don't, some you can program yourself others the dealer has to do it. Now I know how the spyders work. Was looking into new technology for transmitting electric current through the air. If you have these units when you come in range they will charge your phone run your TV etc. One day the world will be wireless....have to sell the copper stock..!! :roflblack: