The majority of new Lexus models available in the UK are equipped with Safe Exit Assist technology, which includes an innovative electronic door release system called e-Latch. This article explains how it works.
Lexus e-Latch: how it works
Lexus e-Latch is a one-touch electronic door release system inspired by the traditional fusuma sliding screen room dividers in Japanese homes. It replaces the familiar internal door handle with a push-button switch positioned next to the arm rest in the door panel. In the majority of cases, e-Latch operation is integrated into the Safety Exit Assist suite, which uses the car’s blind spot monitoring system to prevent the door opening if vehicles or cyclists are detected approaching from the rear. We believe this system could help prevent 95% of accidents caused by the door opening at the wrong time.
How do you use e-Latch doors?
Vehicle sensors detect when an individual approaches the car carrying its correct key. When that individual grasps the handle the door is electronically unlocked and can be opened in one smooth motion.
To exit the car, the door can be unlocked with a single press of the e-Latch switch. But for vehicles where e-Latch is integrated into the Safe Exit Assist suite, the car will only allow the door to open if no potential hazards are approaching from the rear. If a hazard is detected, e-Latch operation is disabled and a series of audible and visual alerts are made. When it is deemed safe to exit, the e-Latch system unlocks the door and the occupant can safely exit the vehicle.
If the keyholder exits the vehicle, the doors can be centrally locked again by simply thumbing the ridge on the outer door handle.
Which Lexus models feature Safe Exit Assist?
Safe Exit Assist is available on the following models:
| LEXUS MODEL | SAFE EXIT ASSIST |
| LBX | Yes – on selected grades |
| NX | Yes |
| RX | Yes |
| RZ | Yes |
| LM | Yes |
Is it possible to override Safe Exit Assist?
Yes, but as this is a safety feature it cannot be recommended. Safe Exit Assist operates when the vehicle is switched on, and for three minutes after the vehicle is switched off. To override Safe Exit Assist, press the release button three times within two seconds, or press and hold the release button for three seconds.
Is it possible to override e-Latch?
Also, yes. In the event of a loss of electrical power, pull the lever twice to engage the mechanical release and the door will open.
Learn more: What to do if your Lexus won’t unlock
The new e-latch system is great until the recent temperatures have dropped below zero. When the car freezes outside the door does not open as the e-latch freezes leaving you trying to open the door even though you can hear the lock operating. I have seen advice ranging from pouring warm water over the door handle (great when you away from home) to leaving your hand on the handle for a minute plus to unfreeze the mechanism. It seems that these devices are designed for cold weather – do you sell any cars with the e-latch in Canada or US States like Montana where temperatures are much colder than the UK? If so how do people manage to get in their car?
Hello David, thanks for your question.
We are sorry to hear about this issue.
We cannot comment on other markets. However, there is a manual release feature which is highlighted in your Owner’s Manual.
Thanks.
Couldn’t open two doors on my NX 450H+ this morning second time it’s happened in this cold weather, rang my dealer and he was well aware of the problem being the sensor freezes up in cold weather and should just hold it for a minute and it’ll open, which it does, come on guys this is a £63k plus car they didn’t mention that I would have to warm the handles to get in it in cold weather when I took delivery in February this year
Hi Ian, thanks for getting in touch.
We are sorry that you are experiencing difficulties with your NX in the cold weather. This is something that we are aware on and have implemented a fix for.
Your local Lexus Centre can obtain all the information they need for this via ‘TSB BE-00971L-TME’.
Let us know if you need any further assistance,
Lexus UK