Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer in order to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle won't start after inserting the key fob there may be a problem with a transponder chip that is not transmitting a security code to the immobilizer system.
This is a straightforward fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's look at the various components of your vehicle's immobiliser to find out what you can do.
Battery
If you're in the auto repair business, it is important to be aware of your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. One way to do this is to provide key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but it will also increase the profits of your shop without subletting to the dealership.
The key fob battery is used to power the remote locking and opening systems. However, it does not provide power to the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip located on the fob or key. This chip transmits a code to the car's immobilizer device which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM or instrument cluster smart junction box, or standalone module. The system then checks the code to make sure it is correct. If it is not then the system will disable elements that are crucial to the start of the vehicle, like the ignition or starter motor. The car will be nearly impossible to start if the driver doesn't have the correct key.
The immobiliser has proven highly effective in decreasing car theft since it was first introduced. Yet, thieves are constantly looking for ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these methods includes a recent trend known as the Kia Challenge on TikTok that demonstrated how easy it is to hot-wire a vehicle.
Most insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser in calculating premiums, which makes it more appealing to shop for an automobile that has this feature. However, even vehicles that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser may experience issues with it. These problems are often easy and affordable to fix. A dying or dead keyfob battery is usually the cause of a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be identified with a quick diagnostic test. If the issue persists, then there might be other reasons for the car's behavior, such as electrical issues or a wiring issue. It is recommended to let a professional diagnose the problem and repair it.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, also known as a transponder, is built into the head portion of your car keys. The technology was introduced in cars manufactured after 1995. It is also known as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its purpose is to stop the engine from starting when another person has a duplicate of your key. It works by transmitting a radio frequency from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal sent from the key, it will deactivate the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key that has the transponder chip is often referred to as"fob" or a "smart" key because it is much more difficult to copy than a traditional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a standard key, but not a transponder key. Unlike the central locking element remote of a conventional key, which is powered by batteries, a transponder chip powered by an infrared (IR) signal transmitted by the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the car key fob repair transponder the ignition cylinder has to be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst of IR energy, which is absorbed by the microchip in the key. The chip then sends an individual code to the immobiliser in your car. The car's computer compared the code stored in its memory with that from the transponder chip, and when they match the engine will begin to rev.
The immobiliser will shut down the engine if it detects an unauthorised transponder or key. It also blocks any essential parts of the car from functioning. Without a functioning engine the car will not be able to move, and it will be easy for a criminal to wire the vehicle and then drive away. This is a great deterrent to crime, and is the reason why you should get your car's key-immobiliser fixed as quickly as possible if it develops a fault. If you don't fix it, the security light on your car will continue to flash and it will be inaccessible to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser utilizes a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip inside your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting their car without the correct keys. If the system is not able to recognize a digital serial number from the chip on your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to prevent the car from starting.
This system for car immobilisation is an effective in stopping thieves but sometimes it can get out of connection with the key or the transponder chip. This can be caused by interference or the system being too sensitive. This could need an adjustment. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reconnect the battery and then restart the vehicle. This will reset the system and allow it to accept your key again.
The security light is a way of warning you of an issue. If the light is on and you try to start your car, it is a sign that the code stored in the ECU is not compatible with the chip in the key. This could happen if have recently replaced the car key with a different one that isn't programmed to the vehicle or when you've had a damaged swapped ECU.
If this is the case then it's time to talk to a professional and have the the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. It's possible that the system will not accept the key because of a software update or glitch. To test, insert your key in the ignition and turn the ON position. Do not attempt to start the vehicle. The key should remain in this position for ten minutes. The security light should turn on, and then go off. If it doesn't then you must repeat this procedure and wait for another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times and the issue should be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser blocks the engine from running when a key or fob is not properly programmed. It is based on a specific RFID micro-chip that can't be duplicated and has its own digital serial number. The immobiliser will disconnect if it does not recognise the code. That's why it's so difficult to beat.
Modern cars come with this security system as standard. This makes it difficult to wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system works by checking the chip inside a key fob or a key and sending a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is aware that it's the right key and hasn't be compromised code. The system won't allow the vehicle to start if it does not receive the correct code, and some models will even notify the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an incorrect key or fob.
The system isn't completely foolproof, however. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using techniques like 'hot-wiring'. This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle to cause a malfunction in the ECU. This is a risky technique and requires extensive experience to avoid electrocuting oneself. Additionally, many modern car thieves have switched to more sophisticated methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to steal a car's data and remotely control it using their mobile.
Car owners often see warning lights that indicate that the immobiliser has gone haywire. It can happen for many reasons, but the most common reason is a defective battery in the keyfob. This issue can be resolved by an easy replacement.
If this does not work, it could be that the transponder chip is faulty or the ECU is not compatible. This is more difficult to fix and diagnose as it may require a professional locksmith or dealership. The car immobiliser could also be damaged if water is able to get into the system or is physically pulled away from its fob or key. If any of these issues occur it's recommended to visit the nearest garage or dealer to seek assistance.