Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Nowadays, all vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle won't start after inserting the key fob, it could be a problem with a transponder that's not sending a security signal to the immobiliser.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's look at the various elements of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
It is crucial to focus on the profit and cost-saving opportunities that your auto repair shop. You can do this by offering key fob replacements and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but also increase the profits of your shop, without having to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the battery in the key fob. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip that is located in the fob or key. This chip transmits a passcode from the key or fob to the immobilizer module of the car. It 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 then validates the code to ensure it is correct. If the code is not correct the system will disable elements that are crucial to start the car, such as the ignition motor or starter motor. The car will be impossible to start if you do not have the correct key.
Since its introduction the immobiliser has proven to be an extremely effective tool in reducing car theft. However, thieves are constantly looking for ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these methods includes a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that demonstrated how easy it is to connect a vehicle with hot wires.
Most insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser in calculating rates, which makes it more appealing to shop for a car that already has this feature. However, even vehicles that were factory-fitted with an immobiliser may experience problems with it. Fortunately, these problems are usually simple and inexpensive to fix. A dying or dead keyfob battery can be the cause of a faulty ignition immobiliser. A quick diagnostic test can uncover the problem. If the issue persists it could be due to other causes for the vehicle's behavior, such as electrical issues or a wiring issue. If this is the case, it's best to consult a professional for a diagnosis and repair the problem.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, referred to as transponder, is incorporated into the head portion of your car keys. The technology was introduced in vehicles manufactured after 1995. It is also referred to as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its function is to stop your engine from starting when someone else has an identical key. It works by transmitting a radio frequency from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code in the car's computer matches the signal sent from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key with the transponder chip is often referred to as a 'fob' or a "smart" key due to the fact that it is more difficult to duplicate than a traditional mechanical key. Utilizing special techniques, it is possible to copy a standard car key but not the transponder key. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal and not battery power.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder has to be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst of IR energy, which is picked up by the microchip inside the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code to your car's immobiliser. The computer in the car examines the code in its memory with the transponder's and if the two codes match it will start the engine.
If the immobiliser is able to detect an unauthorised transponder or key is in use, it will disable the engine and block any of its essential components from functioning. Without a functioning engine the vehicle won't be able to move and it could be easy for criminals to hot-wire the vehicle and then drive away. This is a powerful deterrent against criminals and is one of the reasons why it's essential to have your car's key immobiliser repaired when you spot any issue with it. If you don't do this, the security light in your car will keep flashing and it will be impossible to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to transmit an electrical signal to the chip that is in your key. This is an anti-theft device that blocks anyone from driving your vehicle without the correct key. If remote key repair near me cannot detect a serial number digital from the chip in your key it will disengage the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from getting started.
The car immobiliser is a fantastic method of deterring thieves, however it can sometimes be out of the sync. This could be due interference or an immobiliser that is too sensitive. If this is the case, it may need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reconnect the battery and then restart the car. This will reset the key system so that it is ready to accept keys once more.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's way of telling you that there is an issue with the system. 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 on the key. This can occur if your car key has been replaced by a new one that is not programmed to work with the vehicle, or if an ECU has been swapped incorrectly.
If this is the case then you need to go to a professional for assistance and get the transponder or key chip properly programmed to your vehicle. It's possible that the system won't accept the key due to a software update or glitch. To test this put your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position but don't try to start the engine. Let the key stay in this position for ten minutes. This will cause the security light to come on and then to turn off. If it doesn't, you'll need to repeat the process and wait for another 10 minutes. This should resolve the issue if you repeat it three times.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents the car's engine from operating without a key that is programmed correctly or fob. It utilizes a specific RFID chip that can't be duplicated and has a unique digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disengaged in the event that it doesn't recognize the code. That's why it's difficult to beat.
Modern cars are fitted with this security system in the standard configuration. This makes it extremely difficult to hot-wire a vehicle or utilize a different key for starter. The system works by checking the chip in a key fob or a key and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is then able to determine that it's the right key and that the code isn't compromised. The system won't permit the car to start if the doesn't receive the correct code. Some models will even report back to the owner if someone tries to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system isn't 100% secure, however. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser using methods like 'hot-wiring.' This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle in order to fool the ECU. However, this method is pretty risky and requires a great deal of knowledge of how to carry out the procedure without cutting yourself. In addition, many modern car thieves have switched to more sophisticated methods like using specialized apps or Bluetooth to take over the car's information and remotely control it via their phones.
Owners of cars will often be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser that has gone out of control. It can happen for many reasons but the most frequent one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. This issue can be resolved by an easy replacement.
If this isn't working the transponder chip could be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is harder to fix and diagnose as it could require an expert locksmith or a dealership. The car immobiliser could also be damaged if water manages to enter the system or is physically removed from its fob or key. If any of these problems occur it's a good idea visit the nearest garage or dealer to seek assistance.