Getting the dreaded "smart key not found, refer to handbook" message on the display, I've tried everything...new battery for car and smart key. I'm still getting it. Car won't start, I tried what the manual is suggesting and holding down by the steering wheel, the message pops up and then sometimes it says "please reposition smartkey" but nothing.

I had to get it towed home. I had a friend tell me that it's probably one of two things: remote function actuator or keyless vehicle module failed, because it either needs to be updated or replaced. However, this HAS to be taken to the dealership to do.

Anyone know if this is true, and is there anyway to start the engine manually to drive it down there?

Thanks,

 

There is a known issue with the remote key fobs in that the battery connections lose their spring tension over time and multiple battery changes and thus don't get a good enough connection. You can try bending the little tabs out to increase the tension, but that's only temporary and just contributing more metal fatigue. A better alternative is to fashion a round shim to place underneath the battery, thus creating more spring tension on the battery connector. You can just trace the diameter of the battery on a piece of thin cardboard, say a cereal box and cut it out with scissors or x-acto knife. It doesn't take much thickness, maybe even greeting card. And that should last until the next time you need to replace the battery and then you might need to add another shim.

If its not this common issue with the remotes, then it could be on the receiving end of the signal inside the car somewhere. I know there have been some posts, but usually it winds up being a problem with the key fobs. Always diagnose and try to repair problems in the order of cost, starting with the cheapest possible fix first. Hope that helps.

 

Likely to be BCM has corrupted data due to either water ingress or battery disconnection. Both known faults on X250 12-15. Doesn't need a main dealer, just a good Jaguar specialist.

If it was KVM/RFA you would still be able to use the key fob in the emergency location.

Some reference material:
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/20...96454-1020.pdf - Water Ingress
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/20...59478-9999.pdf - Battery Disconnect
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/20...96844-1020.pdf - Re-Configure RFA/KVM