You’re only seeing the surface.

Our most active car forums and technical guides are reserved for registered users.

Sign up here to get total access and start sharing your own ride.

SD4 cranking delay

The go-to spot for all non-technical car talk. Whether you’re discussing the latest EV tech or classic steel, park up and join the conversation.
Imlach_C220
Posts: 49
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:46 pm

Greetings, and I am hoping that you can all help to clarify this matter. After nearly three years of ownership, I still get the "smart" message from my 2012 SD4 Dynamic. I've figured out how to fix the "key not found" issue by simply locking and unlocking the starter. However, now when I try to start up the engine by pressing the button while my foot is on the brake, either nothing happens for about 5 seconds or a brief burst of starter before turning off. If I wait another 5 seconds with my foot still on the brake, it will either start or another brief burst before turning off. After another 5 seconds, it will start, and sometimes it starts immediately. Both batteries are relatively new, so there will be plenty of power to crank the engine when the time comes. I would assume the vehicle is aware it is in Park because the letter P is prominently shown on the dashboard. As always, I'm grateful for your time and any suggestions you may have.
GURU4U2BUY
Posts: 74
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:40 pm

Hey, have you swapped out the batteries in the key fob? I'm not sure.
Imlach_C220
Posts: 49
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:46 pm

Hello, it's unbelievable that I'm reading this! About two months ago, I swapped out the batteries in both fobs, so I didn't give this much thought as a possible cause of the problem. However, this afternoon, I had a change of heart and decided to check my inventory; I only had one spare battery, so I swapped it out and it worked for six consecutive times. I'll give it another go first thing in the morning. I had gone to the lengths of attempting to use the key fob in the supposed off-battery location beneath the steering column, but to no avail. I am really appreciative of this.
ryan_sportage_gt
Posts: 28
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:50 pm

:| :| :| :| :|
drivesafejane
Posts: 61
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 9:02 pm

The question is, what brand are these batteries and how old are they?
Imlach_C220
Posts: 49
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:46 pm

Panasonic EXP 2032 battery pack
madmadmax
Posts: 75
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 9:01 pm

Are the keys reprogrammed? I had to get my key reprogrammed multiple times before it worked properly. I managed to lock my car once, but I couldn't open it. Resetting it would be my top priority.
Post Reply