I've recently bought a keyless ignition 2011 SMax (automatic). I'd like to get the car warmed up in the morning before driving anywhere (it's sat on the drive). If I start the car and take the key out of the car, the engine continues to run even though it does detect that the key is no longer in the car. Does this mean if I left the car running like that on the drive someone could drive off or will it cut out before they get off the drive? 

I suppose I could try using the key blade to then lock the doors whilst the engine is running(?).... 

Any thoughts/work-arounds/hacks?

Thanks for your wisdom!

Not tried it myself. However is it still illegal to leave a car running and unattended?

The car should warm up pretty quickly. I just get in mine and drive it, put the temp up to max and the electric heater will kick in (not sure if it works at lower temp settings), it's not massively hot but there's warmth coming out the blowers.

Thanks Frembrit, I hadn't even considered legal aspects... 🤔

Not a problem if it's on your drive, it would only be illegal if you did it on a road, public car park, etc.

I think if it is locked you are ok.  Otherwise things like Ford remote start would be making you break the law.

 

Thanks AlexP and Guy. I might try out the key blade to manually lock the car, see if it's not too much of a faff 👍

 

Believe you can lock the car with the remote and leave it running, no need to use the key.

Leave it running but lock up with the remote key.

I've always wondered if we could lock the car whilst the engine is running, but was always a bit cautious to try in case it wouldn't open again.