4. Carbon Monoxide Risks
Because these engines are so quiet, people occasionally forget to turn them off when parking in a garage. In an attached garage, this can lead to deadly carbon monoxide buildup. Modern cars often have an auto-shutoff feature, but never rely on it—double-check that “Stop” button.
5. Steering Wheel Lock-Up
If you try to start the car and the button won’t push or the engine won’t crank, your steering wheel might be locked in a “tension” position. Gently wiggle the wheel left and right while pressing the button to release the lock.
6. The Brake Pedal Requirement
It sounds simple, but keyless cars require a firm press on the brake to start. If the vacuum pressure in the brake lines has changed while the car was off, the pedal might feel “stiff.” You have to press extra hard to engage the safety switch that allows the Start button to work.
7. Accessory Mode vs. Start
If you want to listen to the radio without starting the engine, press the Start button without touching the brake. Pressing it once or twice (depending on the model) toggles through “Accessory” and “On” modes.
8. Roll-Away Danger
Some drivers forget to put the car in “Park” because they aren’t physically turning a key to the “off” position. While many modern cars will automatically shift to Park when you hit the button, older keyless models might stay in Neutral and roll.
9. Fob Interference
Your car might not “see” your key if it’s sitting right next to your smartphone or a pile of loose change. The electronic noise from a phone can sometimes scramble the fob’s low-frequency signal.
