Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
The majority of vehicles have an immobilizer system that stops 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 transmitting a security code to the immobilizer system.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's take a look at the different parts of your vehicle's immobiliser and see what you can do.
Battery
It is crucial to focus on the cost-savings and revenue opportunities of your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to provide key fob replacement and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but also increase your shop's profits without having to sublet to the dealership.
Typically the key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it doesn't supply power to the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser depends on the transponder chip located on the fob or key. This chip sends a passcode to the car's immobilizer unit, which may be built into the PCM, BCM, instrument cluster, smart junction box or standalone module. The system examines the code to make sure it's correct. If the code isn't correct, the system disables components that are essential to the start of the car, such as the ignition motor or starter motor. This makes the car difficult to start without the right key.
Since its inception the immobiliser has proven to be an extremely effective tool in decreasing car theft. However it is not uncommon for thieves to look for new ways to bypass these security measures. One of these methods includes a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that demonstrated how easy it is to hot-wire a vehicle.
Insurance companies are now taking the use of an immobiliser to calculate premiums. This makes it more attractive to purchase a car that has this feature. However, even vehicles equipped by the manufacturer with an immobiliser could face issues with it. Fortunately, visit the next post are usually straightforward and affordable to solve. Most times an immobiliser that is not working properly is the result of an inactive or dead key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test can reveal this issue. If the problem persists it could be due to other causes for the vehicle's misbehaviour, including electrical issues or a wiring problem. It is best to let a professional determine the issue and solve it.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, called transponder, is embedded in the head of your car keys. The technology was introduced in vehicles manufactured after 1995. Also known as a chip key' or a 'transmitter and responder key, it's created to stop the engine from starting if a third party has an exact copy of your car key. It works by sending a radio frequency from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal transmitted by the key the immobiliser will then be deactivated and the engine will begin to run.
The key with a transponder is also called a "fob" or a "smart" key, as it is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a conventional key, but not a transponder one. Unlike the remote central locking element of a conventional key, that relies on battery power the transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted through the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder chip, the ignition cylinder must be turned to the ON position. The ring emits a blast of IR energy, which is picked up by the microchip inside the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code the immobiliser of your car. The car's computer examines the code in its memory to the one on the transponder and If the two codes are identical it will start the engine.
The immobiliser shuts down the engine when it detects an unauthorized key or transponder. It also stops any essential components of the car from functioning. Without a functioning engine the car will not be able to move, and it would be very easy for criminals to wire the vehicle and drive away. This is an effective 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 and the security light on your vehicle will continue flashing and you will not be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip in your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting the car if they don't have the correct keys. If the system is unable to detect an electronic serial number from the chip on your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to prevent the car starting.
The car immobiliser is an excellent method to deter thieves, but it could sometimes be out of in sync. This could be due interference or an immobiliser that is too sensitive. If this is the situation, it might need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, you can reinstall the battery and 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 method of letting you know that there is an issue with the system. If the light is illuminated and you attempt to start your car, it means that the code in the ECU is not compatible with the chip on the key. This could happen if have recently replaced the car key with a different one that isn't programmed to your vehicle or when you've had a damaged swapped ECU.
If this is the situation it is recommended to take your key or transponder chip to a professional for them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key due to an update or software issue. To test this, put your key in the ignition and turn it to ON but don't try to start the engine. Keep the key in this position for 10 minutes. This should cause the security light to come on and then to turn off. If it doesn't work, you'll need to repeat the process and wait another 10 minutes. Do this three times, and the issue will be resolved.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents the engine of a car from running without a properly programmed key or fob. It uses a special RFID microchip that isn't able to be duplicated and comes with its own serial number. The immobiliser will stop working when it is unable to recognize the code. That's why it's so difficult to beat.
Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it difficult to hot-wire a vehicle or utilize a different key for starter. The system works by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU recognizes that it is the correct key and that there hasn't been a compromise in the code. The system will not allow the car to start if the doesn't receive the correct code. Some models will even inform the owner if a person tries to use an unapproved fob or key.
The system isn't 100% secure, however. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle to fool the ECU. However, this method is quite risky and requires a lot of knowledge of how to carry out the procedure without damaging yourself. Modern car thieves are using more advanced methods, for instance, Bluetooth or specialised apps to take over a car's data and remotely manage it remotely.
Car owners often see warning lights that indicate the immobiliser has gone off the rails. It can occur for a variety of reasons, but the most frequent causes is a dead or defective battery in the key fob. This issue can be resolved by replacing the battery.
If this isn't working the transponder chip could be faulty or mismatched with the ECU. It is more difficult to diagnose and fix because it requires a specialist locksmith for cars or a dealership. However, a car's immobiliser can also be damaged by water ingress or even physically being pulled away from the fob or key. If you experience any of these problems, it is a good idea to consult a local car dealer or garage for assistance.