Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Keyless Entry: Description and Operation






Access/Start Authorization, KESSY

When disconnecting and connecting the battery, always perform the work procedure as described in the repair information. Refer to=> [ Battery, Disconnecting and Connecting ] Service and Repair.

The KESSY system (Keyless Entry Start Stop System) regulates keyless opening, locking and vehicle start-up.

The CSC roof can also be opened or closed from the outside with a valid ignition key when the ignition is switched off.

When opening the CSC roof, ensure that there is sufficient space above and below the vehicle since the CSC roof tilts upward and the rear lid tilts backward.

Vehicles with KESSY have a Start system button (E378) instead of an Ignition switch (D). The button works as a keyless ignition lock.

The Access/start authorization control module (J518) controls all access/start functions. Refer to=> [ Access/Start Authorization Control Module (J518) ] Access/Start Authorization Control Module (J518).

Additional information:

Refer to the Owner's Manual.

DTC Recognition and Display

The access/start authorization system (KESSY) is equipped with on board diagnostic capabilities which facilitate fault finding. Refer to=> [ Antennae and Sensors for Access/Start Authorization, Checking ] Antennae and Sensors for Access/Start Authorization, Checking.

Open the Vehicle

The ID sensor in ignition key must be located within reception range of lock location (approximately 1.5 meters). The proximity sensor located on the inside of the door handle is activated whenever the handle is touched. This then speaks to the ID sensor inside the key and the door unlocks immediately if the identification is valid. Pulling the door handle opens the vehicle.

Open and Lock The Rear Lid

If there is a valid ignition key in the antenna coverage area on the rear lid, the rear lid automatically unlocks when opening.

The rear lid automatically locks after closing if no valid ignition key is located within the vehicle.

Lock the Vehicle

The ID sensor in ignition key must be located within reception range of lock location (approximately 1.5 meters). Touching the locking sensor on the outside of the door handle activates the sensor. This then speaks to the ID sensor inside the key and the vehicle unlocks if the identification is valid. When exiting the vehicle, the electronic steering column lock is activated when the driver door is opened with the ignition switched off.

Switch the Ignition On Or Off

A valid ignition key must be located in the passenger compartment. Briefly press the starter button once without depressing the brake or clutch pedal.

Start the Engine

It is only possible to start the engine with the Start system button (E378) in the steering column trim when a valid ID sensor is located in the vehicle interior. In vehicles with a manual transmission, the clutch pedal must be depressed and held while the selector lever must be in the "P" position and the brake pedal must be depressed and held in the case of vehicles with a DSG transmission. Briefly press the start system button. This speaks to the ID sensor in the ignition key and if the identification is valid, the steering wheel unlocks and the vehicle can be started. In vehicles with a diesel engine and keyless access, engine start can be delayed if the engine must be preheated.

Turn Off the Engine

Depress the brake pedal. In vehicles with a DSG transmission, the selector lever must be in the "P" position. Briefly press the start system button. If the engine cannot be switched off, perform emergency shut-off.

Emergency Shut-Off

Press the start system button twice in one second or once for longer than 2 seconds. The engine automatically switches off.

Emergency Start Function

Immediately after pressing the Start system button (E378) , hold the ignition key on the right of the steering column trim. The ignition switches on automatically.

Engine Restart Function

If no valid ignition key is detected in the vehicle interior after the engine is switched off, the engine can be restarted within approximately 5 seconds. A corresponding message is shown on the instrument cluster display. After the time period elapses, the engine can no longer be started without a valid ignition key in the vehicle interior.