Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
The majority of vehicles have an immobilizer to prevent theft. If your vehicle isn't starting after inserting the key fob there could be an issue with a transponder chip that is not sending an encryption 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 immobiliser to find out what you can do.
Battery
If you are working in the field of auto repair, it is important to focus on your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. One way to do this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only help your customers but also boost your shop's profits without subletting to the dealership.
Typically the key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the battery in the key fob. The immobiliser is powered through the transponder in the fob, key or instrument cluster. The chip transmits a passcode to the car's immobilizer device which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM, instrument cluster, smart junction box or standalone module. The system checks the code to ensure it's correct. If it is not then the system will disable elements that are crucial to the start of the vehicle, such as the starter motor or ignition. The car will be impossible to start if you don't have the correct key.
The immobiliser system has proven extremely effective at decreasing car theft since its first introduction. However the fact that thieves are always looking for new ways to bypass these security measures. One of these strategies is an upcoming trend called 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 when calculating rates, which makes it even more appealing to buy an automobile that has this feature. However, even vehicles equipped by the manufacturer with an immobiliser could face issues with it. Fortunately, these problems are usually straightforward and affordable to fix. A dead or dying keyfob battery is usually the reason for a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. A quick diagnostic test can identify the issue. If the issue persists and continues to recur, there could be other causes for the vehicle's irregular behavior, such as electrical problems or a wiring issue. It is recommended to have a professional identify the issue and then repair it.
Transponder Chip
In cars made after 1995, a small electronic chip called a transponder is built into the head of your car key. Also known as a 'chip key' or a 'transmitter and responder' key, it is created to stop the engine from starting if someone else has a copy of your car key. It works by sending an audio signal from the key to the immobiliser system. If the code stored in the computer of the car matches the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will be deactivated and the engine will start.
The key with the transponder chip can be referred to as a 'fob' or a "smart" key because it is much more difficult to duplicate than a conventional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a traditional key but not a transponder key. Contrary to the remote central locking element of a conventional key, that relies on battery power the transponder chip is powered by an infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted through the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To turn on the transponder, the ignition cylinder must be in the ON position. The ring emits a blast of IR energy that is detected by the microchip within the key. car remote key repair near me responds by transmitting a unique code to the immobiliser of your car. The computer in the car analyzes the code stored in its memory with the transponder's code and if the two codes match it will start the engine.
The immobiliser shuts down the engine if it detects an unauthorised key or transponder. It also blocks all vital components of the car from functioning. Without a functioning engine the vehicle will not be able to move and it could be easy for criminals to connect the vehicle to a hot wire and drive away. This is a great security measure against crime, and is why you should have your car's key-immobiliser fixed promptly when it has a problem. If you do not take action, the security light on your car will continue flashing and you will not be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that sends an electric signal to the transponder chip inside your key. This anti-theft device stops anyone from starting their car without the correct keys. If the system is unable to detect a digital serial from the chip in your key, it will shut off the engine immobiliser to prevent the car from starting.
This car immobiliser system is an effective way to stop thieves, but it is also possible for it to get out of in sync with the key or transponder chip. This can be caused by interference or the system being too sensitive. This may require a reset. To do this, just disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reconnect the battery and restart the vehicle. This will reset the system and make it ready to accept your key again.
The security light is an immobiliser's way of warning you of an issue. If the light is on and you attempt to start your vehicle, it indicates that the code that is stored in the ECU is not compatible with the chip inside the key. This can occur if your car key has been replaced with a new key that's not programmed for the vehicle, or when an ECU was swapped in a wrong manner.
If this is the case, then it's time to talk to a professional and have the key or the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key because of an update or software issue. To test this, put your key in the ignition and turn it to ON but don't attempt to start the engine. The key should remain in this position for 10 minutes. This should cause the security light to come on and then to turn off. If it doesn't then you'll need to repeat the process and wait another 10 minutes. Do this three times, and the issue should be solved.
Programming
A car immobiliser stops a car's engine from running without a key that is programmed correctly or fob. It uses a special RFID microchip that isn't able to be duplicated and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will disconnect when it doesn't recognize the code. It's hard to beat.
Modern cars come with this security system in the standard configuration. This makes it really hard to wire the car hot or use a different key as a starter. The system works by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU is aware that it's the right key and that there hasn't been a compromise in the code. The system will not allow the car to start if it doesn't receive the correct code, and some models will even report back to the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an unapproved key or fob.
However it isn't completely secure. Some thieves have bypassed the immobiliser by using techniques such as 'hot wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wires within the wiring of a vehicle to trick the ECU into thinking that the appropriate fob or key is being used. This method is risky and requires a lot of knowledge to avoid electrocuting oneself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have shifted over to more advanced methods such as using specialised apps or Bluetooth to take over the car's information and remotely control it using their phones.
Owners of cars will often be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser malfunctioning. It can occur for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common is due to a damaged or dead battery in the key fob. A simple replacement can fix the issue.
If this does not work, it could be that the transponder chip may be defective or the ECU is not matched. This is more difficult to diagnose and fix as it may require a professional locksmith or dealership. However, a car immobiliser may be damaged by water ingress or even physically being removed from the fob or key. If you experience any of these issues, it is a good idea that you visit the local car dealer or garage to seek help.