DEFENDER

2023 Land Rover Defender ENTERING THE VEHICLE Owners Manual

2023 Land Rover Defender ENTERING THE VEHICLE

SMART KEY OPERATION

WARNING
The smart key system uses Radio Frequency (RF) transmissions that could interfere with implanted medical devices. To avoid any possibility of interference between the system and the device, make sure that the device is kept at a safe distance. The distance should be at least 22 cm (9 in) away from any transmitter. In rare circumstances, interference may cause an implanted medical device to malfunction. Malfunction of implanted medical devices may cause injury or death.
NOTES
For more information on the locations of the security system transmitters, see SMART KEY TRANSMITTER LOCATIONS.
WARNING
Never leave children or animals unattended in the vehicle. The vehicle can be operated when the smart key is inside the vehicle. Doing so may potentially result in accident or unauthorised operation.
NOTES
  • The operational range of the smart key varies considerably, depending on atmospheric conditions and interference from other transmitting devices.
  • If any door, or the taildoor, is unlocked ten times within a short period, the locking latch disables for approximately 1 minute.
  • A repacement smart key can be obtained only from a retailer/authorised repairer. The retailer/authorised repairer will require proof of identification and ownership. Notify a retailer/authorised repairer immediately if a smart key is lost or stolen.
  • The security system disarms automatically when the vehicle is unlocked with a smart key. However, if a door is not opened within 40 seconds, the security system re-engages the locks and the alarm (where fitted) re-arms. Automatic re-locking and re-arming is a precautionary action to protect the vehicle when it is unintentionally left unlocked.
  • The vehicle is supplied with two smart keys. The smart keys act as remote controls for the locking and alarm system. The smart keys allow the vehicle to be locked, unlocked, and driven without the use of a conventional key. Each smart key also has an emergency key inserted in the smart key’s body. See EMERGENCY LOCKING, KEYLESS ENTRY and STARTING THE ENGINE.

Use of the smart key to operate the vehicle locks:

  1. Lock: Press to secure the vehicle. The vehicle locks. In some markets, a second press double locks the vehicle. If power-fold mirrors are enabled, the mirrors fold in. Press and hold to activate the global closing feature, if available. See SINGLE LOCKING, DOUBLE LOCKING, DOOR MIRRORS and GLOBAL CLOSING.
  2. Unlock: Press briefly to unlock the vehicle and disarm the alarm. The hazard warning lights flash twice to indicate that the vehicle is unlocked and the alarm is disarmed. The interior lights illuminate to assist entry to the vehicle. If power-fold mirrors are enabled, the mirrors unfold. See DOOR MIRRORS.
  3. Headlights: When approaching the vehicle during darkness, press to switch on the headlights to provide approach illumination. Press again to switch approach illumination off. The approach illumination preset delay period is 30 seconds. The delay period can be configured to provide illumination lasting between 0 and 240 seconds. See SYSTEM SETTINGS.
    NOTES
    Make sure the smart key is not left inside the vehicle before closing the taildoor. The smart key may not be detected if kept inside a metal container, or shielded by a device with a back-lit LCD screen. For example, a smartphone, laptop, including when inside a bag, or a games console. Also, if the vehicle is in an area of localised Radio Frequency (RF) interference, the smart key may not be detected. If the smart key is not detected inside the vehicle, the vehicle can still be locked. However, the vehicle does not automatically unlock. The vehicle unlocks only with another valid smart key.
  4. Taildoor: Press briefly to unlock the taildoor. If the vehicle is locked and armed, all of the other doors remain closed and the exterior alarm remains armed while the taildoor is open. Press the lock button (1) to lock the taildoor when closed.
  5. Panic alarm: Press and hold for 3 seconds, or press three times within 3 seconds, to activate the horn and the hazard warning lights. Once active for more than 5 seconds, the alarm can be cancelled. Press the button and hold for 3 seconds, or press three times within 3 seconds. The panic alarm also cancels if a valid smart key is present when the START/STOP button is pressed.
  6. Emergency key blade: Push the release button.
  7. Emergency key blade: Pull to withdraw the key blade.
  8. Emergency unlock: Insert key blade into key barrel and rotate counter-clockwise to unlock door.
  9. Keyless unlock: Press button on front of door handle to lock the vehicle.

2-STAGE UNLOCKING

To unlock the vehicle and disarm the alarm system, press the smart key’s unlock button.

The vehicle unlocks in one of two ways:

  1. 2-stage unlocking on: Unlocks the driver’s door only. A second press is required to unlock the remaining doors and the taildoor.
  2. 2-stage unlocking off: Unlocks all of the doors and the taildoor on the first press.

To change the vehicle’s 2-stage unlocking status, press the smart key’s lock and unlock buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. The hazard warning lights flash twice to confirm the change.

2-stage unlocking can also be set via the Vehicle menu in the touchscreen. See SYSTEM SETTINGS.

NOTES
If an audible warning sounds when the vehicle is unlocked, there may be a fault with the alarm sensors. Consult a retailer/authorised repairer as soon as possible.

APPROACH UNLOCKING

This feature is not available on your vehicle at this time.

KEYLESS ENTRY

WARNING
The smart key system uses Radio Frequency (RF) transmissions that could interfere with implanted medical devices. Make sure that the device is kept at a safe distance of at least 22 cm away from any transmitter. This is to avoid any possibility of interference between the system and the device. The RFs and field strengths used by the keyless entry system operate well within required medical standards for radiated emissions. In rare circumstances, interference may cause an implanted medical device to malfunction, potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

For information concerning the location of the security system transmitters, see SMART KEY TRANSMITTER LOCATIONS.

NOTES
The smart key may not be detected if it is shielded by metal and/or devices with LCD screens. For example, a smartphone, a laptop or a games console. Keep the smart key clear of such devices when attempting keyless entry, keyless locking, or push button starting.
NOTES
The smart key only needs to be on the driver’s person, or in a nearby non-metallic bag or briefcase. The smart key does not need to be exposed or handled. Keyless entry allows the vehicle to be opened if a smart key is within 1.5 m of the door handle or taildoor button.

The keyless entry system activates when the keyless unlock button (1) is pressed. Grip and pull the door handle to open the door. The vehicle unlocks, the alarm system disarms, and the hazard warning lights will flash twice to confirm unlocking. If the power-fold mirrors are enabled, the mirrors fold out.

NOTES
When 2-stage unlocking is the current security setting and a door other than the driver’s door is opened first, all of the doors will unlock.

After entering the vehicle, and closing all of the doors, the vehicle scans the interior for a valid smart key. If a valid smart key is not detected, the instrument panel displays a warning message. If this situation occurs, use a valid smart key to carry out the engine start backup procedure. See ENGINE START BACKUP.

The security system fitted to the vehicle is Thatcham category 1 approved and meets EU regulations 97/116.

ACTIVITY KEY

NOTES
The activity key feature is not available on vehicles fitted with walk-away locking. See WALK-AWAY LOCKING.

The activity key is a touchscreen wristwatch. The activity key is designed to support situations where the smart key might be obtrusive or difficult to keep secure. The activity key is waterproof to a depth of 40 m (131 ft) and is shockproof. Care should be taken during certain sporting activities, e.g., skiing, jet-skiing, or diving, to protect the activity key.

The activity key provides full keyless entry and keyless start functionality. See KEYLESS LOCKING, KEYLESS LOCKING and STARTING THE ENGINE.

When the activity key is activated, the vehicle locks, the alarm system arms, and any smart key remaining inside the vehicle is disabled.

NOTES
Locking preference settings are retained when locking or unlocking the vehicle using the activity key, e.g., single or double locking. See SINGLE LOCKING.
ACTIVITY KEY TOUCH SCREEN USE:

The home screen displays the current time (1). Press and hold the screen for approximately 2 seconds to wake the home screen. Swipe downwards to bring up the next menu item. Swipe right to select the current menu item.

The battery charge level (2) is shown in the top right of the screen. If the activity key battery charge level drops below 30%, the screen displays a prompt to charge the activity key. The screen disables if charge drops below 25% to preserve functionality.

NOTES
When left idle for a period of time, the activity key’s touchscreen switches off to preserve battery power.
RECHARGING THE ACTIVITY KEY:

The charge icon (3) is displayed when the activity key is being charged. A magnetic USB charge cable is supplied with the activity key to enable charging. Replacement charge cables are available at retailers or authorised repairers.

LOCKING WITH THE ACTIVITY KEY:

The vehicle must be switched off. After exiting the vehicle and closing the last open door, swipe upwards to access the activity key’s Locking menu. Press the lock icon to lock the vehicle. The hazard warning lights flash to confirm. If power-fold mirrors are enabled, they will fold in. Touch the home icon to return to the home screen.

NOTES
If a locking attempt is unsuccessful, an audible alert sounds. Check that all of the doors and the tailgate are closed, and that the vehicle is switched off.
NOTES
If the tailgate of a locked vehicle is opened using the smart key, an audible alert may sound when re-closing the tailgate. Should this occur, fully unlock the vehicle before attempting to close the tailgate.
NOTES
When the vehicle is locked with the activity key, any valid smart key remaining inside the vehicle is disabled. Any valid smart key outside the vehicle remains enabled.
UNLOCKING WITH THE ACTIVITY KEY:

On returning to the vehicle, swipe upwards to access the activity key’s Locking menu. Press the unlock icon to unlock and disarm the alarm system. The hazard warning lights flash to confirm. If the power-fold mirrors are enabled, they unfold.

NOTES
When the vehicle is unlocked with the activity key, any valid smart key inside the vehicle re-enables.
TAILGATE OPERATION:

The tailgate or boot can be opened using the activity key. Swipe up from the home screen until the tailgate-boot icon is shown. Press the icon to open the luggage compartment. If power tailgate or boot is fitted, the tailgate or boot will open fully. Press again to close the luggage compartment.

ALARM SOUND:

To sound the alarm, swipe up from the home screen until the hazard warning triangle is displayed. Press the triangle to sound the vehicle’s alarm. Press again to switch off. Alternatively, briefly touch the home screen three times in quick succession.

NOTES
The panic alarm cannot be cancelled during the first 5 seconds of operation. Once this 5 second has passed, the panic function on the smart key will de-activate the panic alarm.
WET MODE:

Wet mode inhibits the screen to prevent accidental operation when submerged in water, or subjected to water splashes. Swipe up from the home screen until the water drop symbol is displayed. Press the drop to activate wet mode. To exit wet mode, touch the screen four times in quick succession. A progress bar confirms screen touches until the screen is unlocked.

SETTINGS:

Swipe up from the home screen until the Settings cog wheel is displayed. Pressing the cog wheel will display a clock face icon, from which the displayed time can be adjusted.

GLOBAL OPENING

NOTES
Global opening of the windows can be enabled and disabled via the Vehicle menu . See SYSTEM SETTINGS.

To unlock the vehicle and open all of the windows simultaneously, press and hold the smart key’s unlock button for 3 seconds. See SMART KEY OPERATION.

To cancel global opening, press any of the buttons on the smart key.

CONVENIENCE MODE

When the driver’s door is opened using either the smart key or keyless entry, the vehicle initiates convenience mode. The following systems become functional:

  • Seat position memory.
  • Seat and steering column adjustment.
  • Interior and exterior lighting.
  • Instrument panel.
  • Auxiliary power sockets.

STEERING COLUMN LOCK

The steering column lock unlocks and locks in conjunction with the vehicle’s locking system. The steering column locks automatically when the vehicle’s ignition is switched off and the smart key is removed from the vehicle.

CAUTION
During vehicle recovery, a smart key must remain inside the vehicle so that the steering column lock remains unlocked. If the steering column lock locks while the vehicle is moving, serious damage may occur.

If the steering column lock malfunctions, the instrument panel displays the message Steering column locked. If this occurs:

  1. Lock and then unlock the vehicle using the smart key.
  2. Try again to unlock the steering column lock. Turn the steering wheel gently to the left and right.
    NOTES
    The steering column lock may malfunction if the steering column is under load. For example, when the vehicle is parked with the front wheels pressed against a kerb.

If the problem persists, seek qualified assistance immediately.

SMART KEY SYSTEM TRANSMITTERS

WARNING
Keep any implanted medical device at least 22 cm away from any transmitter mounted in the vehicle. Failure to do so could result in interference between the system and device. Interference may cause the implanted medical device to malfunction, potentially causing serious injury or death.

More information on the locations of the security system transmitters can be found in the technical specifications section. See SMART KEY TRANSMITTER LOCATIONS.

OPENING AND CLOSING THE TAILDOOR

WARNING
Do not drive with an open taildoor at any time. Driving with an open taildoor obscures the rear lights. Also, driving with an open taildoor may result in persons or luggage falling from the vehicle. In either case, death or serious injury may occur.
WARNING
An open taildoor obscures the rear lights. If available, place a warning triangle at a suitable distance behind the vehicle, facing toward oncoming traffic. See WARNING TRIANGLE.
CAUTION
Make sure there is sufficient space behind and at the side of the vehicle before operating the taildoor. Insufficient opening space may result in damage to the vehicle.
CAUTION
Do not operate the taildoor if a cycle rack is fitted to the vehicle. Remove any cycles and/or racks before operating the taildoor. Improper use of cycle racks may cause damage to the vehicle.
CAUTION
Make sure the taildoor is fully closed before the vehicle is driven, to prevent damage to the vehicle.For further information regarding proper use of the taildoor, refer to the taildoor label. See LABEL LOCATIONS.

Opening the taildoor:

  1. Press the button on the rear of the handle to release the latch.
  2. Pull to open the taildoor.
NOTES
The taildoor handle releases if all of the doors are unlocked and the gear selector is in the Park (P) position. With the gear selector in the Neutral (N) position, the taildoor releases only if all of the doors are unlocked. Also, the ignition must be in convenience mode or switched off. The taildoor handle does not operate the taildoor if the gear selector is in any other position. See CONVENIENCE MODE.
NOTES
The taildoor can be opened and held in any required position. Move the taildoor to the required position and hold for approximately one second. The taildoor’s mechanism helps to prevent movement of the taildoor. Increased force is required to move the taildoor from the held position or from the fully open position. The taildoor can also be released using the following methods:
  • The taildoor button on the smart key. See SMART KEY OPERATION.
  • The taildoor command on the activity key. See ACTIVITY KEY.
NOTES
The taildoor does not release if the vehicle is travelling at, or above, approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).
  • If the smart key remains inside the loadspace when the vehicle is locked and the alarm is set, a warning is given. The warning indicates a mislock and the taildoor unlatches after approximately 3 seconds.
  • If the taildoor is pushed to a closed position, the vehicle searches for a valid smart key at the rear of the vehicle. If a valid smart key is not detected within 1.5 m of the rear of the vehicle, the taildoor re-opens and an audible mislock warning sounds. Additionally the taildoor re-opens with an audible mislock warning sound if any smart key remains inside the vehicle when the taildoor is closed.
  • The smart key may not be detected if it is shielded by metal and/or devices with LCD screens. For example, a smartphone, a laptop or a games console.
  • Make sure the taildoor is fully closed before leaving the vehicle unattended. Visible and audible warnings indicate if the vehicle is locked and the alarm armed. If there are no visible or audible warnings upon closing the taildoor, the vehicle may be unprotected.
90 COMMERCIAL VARIANT:

An interior release for the taildoor is located on the vehicle’s left side D-pillar.

DEPLOYABLE SIDE STEPS

The deployable side steps are full length steps that are stowed below the side sills and under the vehicle. When the deployable side step is activated it automatically deploys if any of the doors are opened on the appropriate side. If doors on both sides are opened, both side steps deploy.

The deployable side steps can be set via the touchscreen’s Side step menu. Select On or Off. See SYSTEM SETTINGS.

The vehicle remembers the set status and a change to the status can be made at any time. When set to On, the side steps are activated in auto mode.

NOTES
The deployable side steps do not deploy when the vehicle is travelling at more than 5 km/h (3 mph). If the side steps are already deployed, they stow automatically when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 5 km/h (3 mph).
NOTES
The deployable side steps return to their previous position if an obstruction is encountered during operation. If this occurs, the touchscreen displays a warning. If a further obstruction is met in the reverse direction, the steps will stop mid state. Remove the obstruction before operating the side steps again.

After a side step has been deployed, automatic operation is activated under the following conditions:

  • Stows 5 seconds after both doors on the side of the vehicle are closed;
  • Stows immediately when both doors on the side are closed and a transmission drive gear is selected;
  • Stows immediately when all doors are closed and vehicle is locked from outside using smartkey or keyless entry.

When the vehicle is unlocked from the outside, the side steps deploy if the deployable side steps menu status is set to On. Operation of the side steps on one or both sides of the vehicle is dependent on the following unlocking status:

  • When the smart key is set to single-point entry, on the first press of the smart key, the side step deploys on only the driver’s side. A second press also deploys the passenger side step.
  • When the smart key is set to multi-point entry, both side steps deploy.
  • Keyless entry deploys both side steps.

When the smart key or keyless entry is used to unlock the vehicle, and subsequently no door is opened, the side steps automatically stow after 1 minute.

ROOF ACCESS:

The side steps can be deployed indefinitely to access the roof, cleaning or accessing the jacking points. On the Side steps menu, select Roof access. The electric parking brake must be on and the vehicle unlocked to activate Roof access. The side steps deploy and remain in their deployed position until Roof access is deselected. The deployed position deactivates automatically, and returns to the automatic setting, if the vehicle speed exceeds 5 km/h (3 mph), or if the vehicle’s doors are locked.

NOTES
Use Roof access mode to enable cleaning of the steps and the underside of the vehicle in a pull-through car wash, follow the steps above to activate Roof access mode. Once in Roof Access mode, release the electric parking brake. The vehicle can now move up to 5 kph (3 mph) without the side steps stowing.
OFF-ROAD OPERATION:

To prevent potential damage to side steps, the side steps do not deploy when the vehicle is in certain terrain response programs.

Enabling Off-road operation mode allows the deployable side steps to continue operating in otherwise restricted terrain response programs.

CAUTION
Use of Off-road operation mode can result in damage to the vehicle in unsuitable terrain. Make sure there are no obstructions in path of side steps before operating Off-road operation mode.

SMART KEY DEACTIVATION

Key deactivation is intended to secure keys that have been stored in the vehicle. A deactivated key will not start the vehicle. Keys become deactivated when left inside the vehicle when the alarm is armed. For example, if the vehicle is locked by another key, or if keyless locking arms the alarm. Keys become deactivated if left inside the vehicle when closing the tailgate, bootlid or taildoor while the alarm is armed.

To reactivate a key:

  • Start the vehicle using another activated smart key or activity key, or
  • Unlock the vehicle using the InControl Remote application.

DRIVE-AWAY LOCKING

Drive-away locking automatically locks all of the doors when the vehicle reaches a set speed. The drive-away locking set speed can be adjusted via Vehicle in the touchscreen menu. See SYSTEM SETTINGS.

NOTES
After drive-away locking has taken place, press the unlock or lock button to override the feature for the current journey. The unlock and lock buttons are located on the inside of the front doors. See DOOR LOCKS AND HANDLES.

SMART KEY BATTERY REPLACEMENT

Make sure the following warnings have been read and fully understood before using components with coin or button cell batteries. Failure to follow the guidance could result in serious injury or death.

WARNING
Chemical burn hazard. Batteries can cause severe internal burns within 2 hours of swallowing and may result in death. If it is suspected that a battery may have been swallowed or placed inside any part of the body, seek medical advice immediately.
WARNING
Keep new and used batteries away from children.
WARNING
If the battery compartment does not close securely, stop using the product and keep the product away from children.

The instrument panel displays a warning message if the smart key battery needs replacing. A depleted smart key battery significantly decreases its effective range.

To replace the battery:

  1. Push the button on the smart key, to withdraw the emergency key blade.
  2. Pull the emergency key blade in the direction of the arrow.
  3. Use the emergency key blade to separate the smart key’s body.
  4. Remove the battery and press the upper positive terminal until the negative grid is touched. Upon recovering the position of the terminal, the coin cell shall have firm positive contact with the upper terminal.
  5. Fit a new and unused CR2032 type battery, available from a retailer/authorised repairer, with the positive (+) side upward.
  6. For cars with passive entry: after replacing the battery, allow 10 minutes for the internal battery to recharge before testing the smart key function.
NOTES
Avoid touching the new battery. Moisture or oil from fingers can reduce battery life and corrode the contacts.
NOTES
If the low battery warning does not extinguish, it indicates that the replacement battery is not in a new or unused condition.

Refit the parts in reverse order. Make sure that the parts click securely into place.

Battery disposal: Batteries contain harmful substances and must be disposed of correctly. Seek advice on disposal from a retailer/authorised repairer and/or the local authority.

SMART KEY CARE

WARNING

To prevent accidental or unauthorised operation, never leave the smart key unattended in the vehicle. Never leave children or animals unattended in the vehicle. The vehicle can be operated when the smart key remains inside the vehicle. Unintended or accidental vehicle operation could cause injury or death.

CAUTION
Do not expose the smart key to extremes of heat, dust, or humidity. Extreme heat, dust and humidity may damage the smart key.
CAUTION
Do not allow the smart key to come into contact with fluids. Fluids may damage to the smart key.
CAUTION
Do not leave the smart key exposed to direct sunlight. Sunlight may cause damage to the smart key.

The emergency key blade number is recorded on an attached label. Peel off the label and store it securely away from the vehicle.

The operational range of the smart key depends on atmospheric conditions and interference from other transmitting devices.

NOTES
The Radio Frequency (RF) used by the smart key may be used by other devices, e.g., medical equipment. Use of these devices may prevent the smart key from operating correctly.
CAUTION
The instrument panel displays a warning if the smart key battery is depleted. If a smart key low battery warning occurs, replace the batteries in all of the smart keys. Replacing all of the smart key batteries prevents permanent damage to the smart keys.
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