How to Open and Lock the Rivian Car Without Pressing a Button
The Rivian is a great car, but one of its features that many people find disappointing is the fact that its key fob isn't passive. This means that you have to manually press the buttons to lock and unlock the vehicle. Many new cars these days come with this feature, so it's unfortunate that the Rivian doesn't offer it.
However, there are some alternatives available. You can use a keycard or wristband as a key if you prefer. The wristband seems least intrusive and may be what you opt for when going on hikes or to the gym. There may even be something available that you could slip onto an existing watch band, so you don't need to wear a full wristband with your watch.
You also need an Android phone running version 9 or higher in order to use the PAAK app which allows you to open and close your car without taking out your keys. Unfortunately, this means that smaller phones won't work and it's probably safer to get something with at least Android 10 or 11 to make sure it will work for a few years.
Having to press a button every time you want to lock or unlock your car can be annoying if you're getting in and out of your vehicle multiple times during the day. One option is to buy a small phone specifically for this purpose and leave it in the car all the time. Alternatively, you could invest in some faraday bags which can protect your fob from draining its battery too quickly when not in use.
It's good news that Rivian is working on updating the fob so that it becomes passive. Hopefully they'll be able to resolve this issue soon so that users can enjoy the convenience of having their doors automatically lock and unlock when they approach their car.
Is the Rivian key fob passive (proximity based)?
No, the Rivian key fob is not passive. You have to manually press the buttons to lock and unlock. However, you can use your phone as a key, or a keycard or wristband as a key.
What if I don't want to use my phone as a key?
You could use a keycard or wristband as a key, if you like. Wristband seems least intrusive, and is probably what many people will do on hikes or at the gym. You could also slip something onto an existing watch band.
Does the phone need to be Android 9+?
Yes, the phone needs to be Android 9+ in order to use it as a key with PAAK.
What if I don't want to buy a new phone?
If you don't want to buy a new phone, you could use a faraday bag with your passive Subaru fobs for when you're at home. Rivian is also working on updating the fob so that it can be passive.
How often do I get in and out of my vehicle?
It depends on how often you use your vehicle. For many, they get in their vehicle twice a day, to and from work. For others who use their vehicle for work, they may be in and out at least 10-15 times a day, or even over 30 times a day.
What if I want to use a keycard or wristband?
You can purchase a keycard or wristband from Rivian that will work with your vehicle. The keycard is a small card that you can keep in your wallet, and the wristband is a comfortable band that you can wear on your wrist.
Is the keycard or wristband secure?
Yes, both the keycard and wristband are secure. They use encryption technology to ensure that only you have access to your vehicle. The keycard also has an RFID chip embedded in it, which adds an extra layer of security.
How do I set up the keycard or wristband?
Setting up the keycard or wristband is easy. All you need to do is download the PAAK app and follow the instructions. Once you have set it up, you can lock and unlock your vehicle with just a tap of your finger.
Is there anything else I should know about using the keycard or wristband?
Yes, make sure to keep your keycard or wristband away from water and other liquids as they may damage it. Also, be sure to keep it away from magnets as they could interfere with its functionality.