Many Lexus owners experience the convenience of a key fob that can remotely open the tailgate. Imagine approaching your Lexus NX, arms full of groceries, and with a simple press of the tailgate button on your key fob, the trunk smoothly opens. You load your items, press the tailgate button again, and it closes seamlessly as you head to the driver’s seat. This is the expectation, and for many vehicles, this is the reality.
However, some Lexus owners encounter a frustrating situation where the tailgate refuses to open using the key fob button when the car is locked. You might press and hold the tailgate button, hear the car beep, but nothing happens. You might try pressing it repeatedly with no success. Only after manually unlocking the car using the unlock button on the key fob, or even using the physical button on the tailgate itself, does the remote tailgate function become operational.
This discrepancy between expectation and reality can be puzzling. Why does the tailgate open with the key fob after unlocking the car, but not before? It raises questions about whether this is a normal Lexus operating characteristic, a potential malfunction, or a setting that can be adjusted.
Lexus NX key fob with three buttons: lock, unlock, and tailgate open.
One possible explanation is that this behavior is a security feature designed by Lexus. Preventing the tailgate from opening remotely when the car is locked could be a deliberate measure to deter theft or unauthorized access to the vehicle’s cargo area. This would mean the remote tailgate open function is intentionally linked to the car’s locked/unlocked state.
Alternatively, there could be other factors at play. It’s worth considering a few troubleshooting steps:
- Check Key Fob Battery: Although you mentioned replacing the battery, it’s always worth double-checking to ensure it’s correctly installed and functioning optimally. A weak battery could potentially affect the signal strength and range of the key fob.
- Proximity to Vehicle: Ensure you are within a reasonable range of the vehicle when attempting to use the key fob. Obstructions or excessive distance could interfere with the signal.
- Vehicle Settings: Consult your Lexus owner’s manual (ideally the English version specific to your model and year) to see if there are any settings related to the key fob and tailgate operation. There might be customizable options that influence this function.
- System Malfunction: While less likely, there’s always a possibility of a malfunction in the vehicle’s remote entry system or the tailgate mechanism itself.
If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, and you’ve confirmed it’s not a deliberate security feature based on your manual, it would be advisable to consult with a Lexus dealership or a qualified automotive technician. They can diagnose the problem accurately and determine if there is a fault requiring repair or adjustment. Understanding the specific behavior of your “Lexus Key Fob Open” function is key to resolving this inconvenience and enjoying the full functionality of your Lexus vehicle.
