Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer to stop car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob, there could be a problem with a transponder chip that is not sending an encryption code to the immobiliser system.
This is a straightforward 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 fix it.
Battery
If you're in the auto repair business, it is important to concentrate on your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. You can accomplish this by providing key fob replacements as well as reprogramming your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but also increase your shop's profits without having to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it doesn't supply power to the immobiliser. The immobiliser is powered by the transponder in the fob, key or instrument cluster. This chip sends a passcode to the immobilizer unit of the car, which may be built into the PCM, BCM or instrument cluster smart junction box or standalone module. The system then verifies the code to ensure it is correct. If the code is incorrect it will disable the elements that are crucial to the start of the car, like the starter motor or ignition. This makes the car difficult to start if you don't have the right key.
The immobiliser has proven highly effective in decreasing car theft since its first introduction. Despite this, thieves are always looking for new ways to get around these security measures. One of these methods is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that demonstrates how easy it is to connect hot wires to an automobile.
The majority of insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser in calculating premiums, making it even more appealing to buy a car that already has this feature. However, even vehicles that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser may experience problems with it. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple and inexpensive to fix. A dying or dead keyfob battery can be the reason for a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be confirmed with an easy diagnostic test. If the issue continues to persist and continues to recur, there could be other causes for the vehicle's irregular 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 fix the problem.
Transponder Chip
In cars made after 1995, a small electronic chip called transponder is embedded in the head of your car key. It is also known as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its purpose is to stop your engine from starting if you have a duplicate of your key. It works by transmitting an audio signal from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code on the car's computer matches the signal transmitted by 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 due to the fact that it is more difficult to duplicate than a traditional mechanical key. Using specific methods, it is possible to copy a conventional car key however, not a transponder key. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal and not battery power.
To activate the transponder chip, the ignition cylinder needs to be switched to ON. The ring emits a burst of IR energy which is absorbed by the microchip inside the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code your car's immobiliser. The car's computer checks the code in its memory with that from the transponder chip and if they match the engine will be able to start.
If the immobiliser detects that an unauthorized transponder or key is in use it will shut down the engine and block any of its vital components from functioning. Without a functioning engine the car will not be able to move and it would be very easy for criminals to hot-wire the vehicle and then drive off. This is a powerful deterrent to crime, and is the reason why you should get your car's key-immobiliser fixed as soon as you can when it has a problem. If you don't, the security light on your car will keep flashing and it will be impossible to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that transmits an electrical signal to the transponder chip in your key. This anti-theft device stops anyone from starting the car if they don't have the proper keys. If the system cannot detect an electronic serial number from the chip on your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to stop the car starting.
The car immobiliser is a fantastic method to deter thieves, but it could sometimes get out of sync. This could be due interference or a system that is too sensitive. This may require the system to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, you can reinstall the battery and then restart the car. This will reset the system and make it ready to accept your key once more.
The security light is an immobiliser's method of alerting you to the presence of a problem. If similar resource site is illuminated and you try to start your car, it means that the code that is stored in the ECU is not compatible with the chip in the key. This can happen when your car's key has been replaced by a new one that is not programmed for the vehicle, or if the ECU has been swapped incorrectly.
If this is the case it is recommended to take your key or transponder chip to a professional for them properly programmed for your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key due to a software bug or update. To test, put your key into the ignition and turn the ON position. Do not attempt to start the car. The key should remain in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should come on, and then go off. If it doesn't then you must repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times and the problem should be solved.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents the engine of a car from running without a correctly programmed key or fob. It is based on a specific RFID micro-chip that can't be copied and has its own digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disengaged if it doesn't recognise the code. That's why it's so difficult to defeat.
Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it really hard to connect the car to a hot wire or use a different key for 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 it doesn't have to be compromised code. The system will not allow the car to start if it doesn't receive the correct code, and some models will even inform the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an unapproved key or fob.
However it isn't completely secure. Some thieves have been able to get around the immobiliser using techniques like 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wires in a vehicle's wiring to fool the ECU into thinking the appropriate fob or key is being used. However, this method is quite risky and requires a lot of experience to do it without damaging yourself. Additionally, many modern car thieves have moved to more sophisticated methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to take over a car's data and remotely control it via their phone.
Car owners will frequently be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser gone haywire. It can happen for various reasons, but the most common one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. A simple repair should resolve the issue.
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 may require a professional locksmith or dealership. A car immobiliser may also be damaged if water is able to get into the system, or if it is physically pulled away from its fob or key. If any of these problems occur, it's a good idea to visit the nearest garage or dealer for assistance.