No you don't have to type a code in. It basically bypass's the BRANT system and lets you start the car. I found out from the RAC who had it distributed from Subaru. It did however say once it's been done three times, you should take it back to Subaru and get it reset as apparently you only have three attempts. What wasn't clear was if it was 3 chances to start it, or three goes at starting it using this method?