Originally Posted by Budsmoke

But since manuals are only written for basic operation (put key in, take key out), it remains unclear whether or not the engine will continue to run if the electronic portion of the key fails during use.

Anyone have a couple bucks and some time to figure out the answer? Get a key cut so you can turn the ignition lock cylinder. Place the original key next to the ignition and then insert and turn the copy. With the engine running, remove the original key from the area and see if the engine continues to run.