Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Nowadays, all vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer in order to stop car theft. If your vehicle isn't starting after inserting the key fob, there may be a problem with a transponder chip that is not sending an authorization code to the immobiliser system.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's take a look at the different components of your car immobiliser and what you can do to get it fixed.
Battery
It is important that you concentrate on the profit and cost-saving opportunities that your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but also increase the profits of your shop, without having sublet the dealership.
Typically the key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the battery in the key fob. The immobiliser is powered by the transponder located in the key, fob or instrument cluster. The chip transmits a passcode from the key or fob to the immobilizer module of the car, which can be integrated into the PCM (power control module), BCM (brake control module for brake control) instrument cluster smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system examines the code to ensure that it is correct. If the code is incorrect the system will disable components that are crucial to the start of the car, like the ignition or starter motor. This will make the vehicle nearly impossible to start if you don't have the right key.
The immobiliser system has proven extremely effective in decreasing car theft since its first introduction. However the fact that thieves are always looking for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these techniques is an upcoming trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showcased how easy it is to wire a vehicle.
Insurance companies are now incorporating the use of an immobiliser to calculate premiums. This makes it more attractive to purchase a vehicle with this feature. However, even vehicles that were factory-fitted with an immobiliser can experience problems with it. These problems are often easy and affordable to fix. Most of the time the issue is caused by an inactive or dead key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test will uncover the problem. If the issue continues to persist it could be due to other causes for the vehicle's misbehaviour, including electrical issues or a wiring problem. If this is the case, it's recommended to have a professional diagnose and fix the issue.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, called a transponder, is built into the head portion of your car keys. This technology was first introduced in cars made after 1995. It is also referred to as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its function is to stop the engine from starting when you have an identical key. It works by sending an audio signal from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code stored in the computer of the car is in line with the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will then be deactivated and the engine will begin to run.
key repair with a transponder can also be referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, because it is more difficult to duplicate than mechanical keys. Using specific methods, it is possible to copy a standard car key but not transponder keys. In contrast to the remote central locking element of a standard key which is powered by batteries, a transponder chip powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted by the antenna ring that is located on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder chip the ignition cylinder must be switched to ON. The ring emits a burst IR energy which is received by a microchip inside the key. The chip then responds with a unique code to the immobiliser inside your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory to the one from the transponder chip and when they match the engine will be able to start.
If the immobiliser detects that an unauthorised transponder or key is being used, it will disable the engine and block the essential components from working. The car will not move in the event that the engine is not working. It would be easy for a criminal hot-wire it and then drive off. This is a great deterrent to crime, and is why you should have your car's key-immobiliser repaired promptly when it has a problem. If you do not take action, the security light on your car will keep blinking, and you won't be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser utilizes a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip inside your key. This is an anti-theft device that stops anyone from opening your vehicle without the right key. If the system cannot detect a digital serial number from the chip inside your key, it will deactivate the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from beginning.
The car immobiliser system is an an effective way to stop thieves, however it can get out of sync with the key or transponder chip. This can be due to interference or the system is too sensitive. This may require a reset. To do this, 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 method of alerting you to a problem. If you try to start your car and the light stays on, it means that the chip inside your key isn't in sync with the code that is stored in the ECU. This could happen if your car key has been replaced with an alternative key that is not compatible with the vehicle, or if the ECU was swapped in a wrong manner.
If this is the situation, then you need to go to a professional to have the key or the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key due to a software bug or update. To test this, put your key in the ignition and turn it to ON but don't attempt to start the engine. Let the key remain in this position for ten minutes. This should cause the security light to come on and then to go off. If it doesn't work, you'll have to repeat the process and wait for another 10 minutes. This should resolve the issue when you repeat the process three times.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents the car's engine from operating without a correctly programmed key or fob. It utilizes a specific RFID chip that is unable to be copied and is equipped with a digital serial number. The immobiliser will disconnect in the event that it is unable to recognize the code. It's tough to beat.
Modern cars come with this security system by default. This makes it extremely difficult to wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system works by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU will then verify that it's the correct key and that the passcode isn't compromised. The system won't allow the vehicle to start if it doesn't receive the correct code, and some models will even report back to the owner if someone tries to use an incorrect fob or key.
However the system isn't completely secure. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser using methods such as 'hot-wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wiring in an automobile to cause a malfunction in the ECU. This is a risky method and requires extensive experience to avoid electrocuting oneself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have switched to more sophisticated methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to take over a car's data and remotely control it from their phones.
Car owners often see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser gone haywire. This could be due to a variety of reasons however the most common reason is a defective battery in the keyfob. This issue can be resolved by replacing the battery.
If this doesn't work it could be because the transponder chip is defective or the ECU is not matched. This is harder to determine and fix since it could require an expert locksmith or a dealership. However, a car immobiliser can also be damaged by water ingress or even physically being removed from the fob or key. If any of these problems occur, it's a good idea visit a local garage or car dealer to seek assistance.