Not all keyless keys used by Jaguar Land Rover work in the same way. This is especially important for Range Rover owners, as newer models use a UWB Clear To Open key, also known as a CTO key.
If your Range Rover is fully keyless and registered after 2023, it will only start with a UWB CTO compatible key. A standard PEPS key may unlock the doors, but the engine will not start.
What Is a CTO Clear To Open Key
CTO stands for Clear To Open. It is Jaguar Land Rover’s latest generation Ultra Wideband key system, designed to prevent theft and unauthorised access.
Unlike older keyless systems, a CTO key must be physically close to the vehicle before it will unlock or allow the engine to start. The car does not rely on signal strength alone. It measures true distance.
This makes CTO keys extremely secure and highly resistant to relay theft.
PEPS vs UWB CTO Explained Simply
PEPS Passive Entry Passive Start
Used from around 2010.
Unlocks the car when the key is nearby.
Allows push button start.
Relies on radio signal presence.
Vulnerable to relay attacks.
UWB CTO Ultra Wideband
Introduced from 2018 onwards.
Measures the exact distance between key and vehicle.
Only unlocks and starts when the key is physically close.
Designed to stop relay theft completely.
Why the Correct Key Matters for Range Rover
This is the most common key replacement problem we see.
If a standard PEPS key is programmed to a UWB CTO equipped Range Rover, lock and unlock will work, but the engine will not start.
Many owners assume the key is faulty, when in reality the wrong key type has been supplied.
Using a UWB CTO key on an older non UWB vehicle will work, but it is unnecessary and more expensive.
Range Rover Models That Commonly Require CTO Keys
UWB was phased in, so registration year alone is not always enough. However, the following models commonly require UWB CTO keys.
Land Rover
Range Rover and Range Rover Sport from late 2018
Velar from late 2018
Evoque from 2019
Defender all models from 2020
Vehicles built before 2018 and non keyless models do not use UWB.
Need Assistance?
If you’ve tried the above steps and are still unable to resolve the issue, contact 07900 224444 or fill in the form below for a free quotation. We can diagnose the problem more thoroughly and provide a solution.
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