Thanks to modern technology, starting cars has never been easier. Unlike before, you don’t need to fumble your pockets for a key or turn the key to fire the engine.
The smart key system lets you lock, unlock, or start the car while the key fob is still in your pocket. And if you’re familiar with this cutting-edge technology, you might have heard about the transmitter pocket. But what is it, and more importantly, what does it do in a car?
Question: What Is a Transmitter Pocket?
A transmitter pocket in modern cars is a small compartment for placing the fob key. It’s a front-facing compartment with a similar form to the key fob. By storing the transmitter (key fob) in this transmitter pocket, you can control the car in various ways.
Vehicles with keyless ignition capability feature a transmitter pocket, allowing efficient and convenient starting of the car. General Motors utilizes this technology in vehicles like Chevrolet Malibu and Buick Enclave.
Besides the convenient starting of the car, this feature allows you to drive, park and leave the engine running. You’ll do all these without turning the ignition key or pressing the key fob’s buttons.
One of the reasons this pocket is crucial is that it guarantees the driver reliable starting of the engine. You no longer have to worry about the key fob’s battery dying and failing to start the car. If you have a dead battery, just drop the key fob into the transmitter pocket.
The transmitter pocket will pick up the signals from the key fob and allow you to start the car. Note that the key fob doesn’t necessarily need to have a battery. It will detect the transmitter and send signals to the vehicle’s onboard receiver.
Question: Where Is the Transmitter Pocket in My Car?
Most vehicles have the transmitter pocket in the cup holder on the driver’s side. If not, you can find it in the center console or under the armrest.
Generally, the transmitter pocket’s location will depend on the car brand. It can also vary depending on the vehicle’s model. If you can’t find the key pocket, consult the owner’s manual and place the fob.
The manual can also provide steps for opening or accessing the key pocket and how to place the fob.
Answer: How To Use Transmitter Pocket Start
The key fob must be properly placed in the transmitter pocket. However, that depends on the vehicle model. In some cars, like the Chevrolet Suburban, you can place the fob in any direction and start the engine. Such vehicles have a baggy key pocket to accommodate the fob in any direction.
You can crank the engine after placing the fob in the key pocket. These steps will help you get the engine going:
- Ensure the car is in Park or Neutral gear
- Press the brake pedal
- Push the Power (Start/Stop) button on the dash
There are instances when a “Use Transmitter Pocket Start” message might pop up on the Driver Information Center (DIC). This notification will likely pop up if you’re starting the car for the first time. Repeat the process, and your car will start.
If the car fails to start, there are several things you need to check.
Question: Why Is My Transmitter Pocket Not Working?
The transmitter pocket needs to detect the fob to allow you to start the car. However, it’s common for the pocket to fail to read the fob and send signals to the receiver.
So, why is the transmitter pocket not detecting your key fob?
- Malfunctioning sensor: The transmitter pocket relies on a sensor to read the key fob. If the sensor is defective, it won’t detect your key fob. Cleaning or replacing this sensor can resolve the problem.
- Faulty wiring: Wiring issues in the receiver or the control module can interfere with the transmission of signals. An experienced auto-electrician can diagnose and fix this issue.
- Incorrect key fob: Car manufacturers program the transmitter pocket to a specific key fob. So if you use a different key fob, the pocket won’t detect it.
- Car battery issues: A dead or malfunctioning battery won’t power the control module or other vehicle’s electronics as required. A malfunctioning battery will make the fob ineffective since the control module is your vehicle’s brain.
- Frequency interference: The key fob uses radio frequencies to send signals to the receiver. If you have cell phones, computers, or radio-controlled toys in the car, they might disrupt the transmission of signals. This is because such modern devices use radio frequencies to transmit signals.
- Damaged key fob: Don’t expect the transmitter pocket to detect a damaged key fob. A broken fob or water damage can be the cause. In this case, a certified technician will help program a new fob for your car.
Question: Can the Transmitter Pocket Charge My Key Fob Battery?
The transmitter pocket’s role is to detect the signal but not to charge the key fob’s battery. If the battery dies, you’ll need to replace it. Thankfully, you can continue using the fob in the transmitter pocket despite having a dead battery.
The key fob’s battery lasts 2-3 years. Most of these batteries are not rechargeable, so you have to replace them.
You can tell you have a dead key fob battery while unlocking the car. You might notice that the fob’s range decreases, and you must be very close to the car to unlock it. Eventually, the key fob will fail to unlock, and you’ll need to use the key.
Some automobiles might display a warning on the driver’s screen indicating the key fob’s battery is low.
If the battery is low, replace it to avoid inconveniences when unlocking your car. Luckily, key fob batteries are affordable, costing less than $10.
Question: Can My Transmitter Pocket Work With a Different Key Fob?
Modern cars with transmitter pockets have a specific key fob you can’t use in other vehicles. Manufacturers equip key fobs with a security chip to prevent them from being reprogrammed. Due to this chip you won’t get an aftermarket key fob for your car.
If you misplace the original key fob, you must get an exact copy from the manufacturer. Alternatively, the dealership or a brand’s certified mechanic can program a new key fob to your car’s transmitter pocket.
However, you must prove that the car is yours for the mechanic or manufacturer to issue a replacement key fob. Programming a replacement fob ranges from $80-$400, depending on the car.
If you want a third or fourth key fob for your car, you can program a new fob without visiting the dealer or a mechanic. Always check the owner’s manual to learn how to program a new key fob for your car. Generally, most vehicles will allow up to eight key fobs to be programmed into the system.
Bottom Line
A transmitter pocket provides a safe compartment to place your key fob and start the car. This pocket detects your car’s original key fob and transmits signals to the receiver. The goal is to allow convenient car use and prevent unauthorized people from accessing or driving the vehicle.
If you misplace the key fob, your manufacturer, dealer, or certified mechanic can program a new fob for the car. You must prove you’re the car owner to get a new key fob programmed.