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 isn't starting after inserting the key fob, there may be a problem with the transponder chip not sending an authorization code to the immobilizer system.
This is a straightforward 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 to discover what you can do.
Battery
It is important that you concentrate on the revenue and cost-savings opportunities of your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but also increase the profits of your shop without the need to sublet to the dealership.
Typically the key fob battery powers the remote opening and locking systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the battery in the key fob. The immobiliser is powered by a transponder that is located in the key, fob or instrument cluster. The chip transmits a passcode from the fob or key to the immobilizer module of the car. It can be integrated into the PCM (power control module) or BCM (brake control module for brake control) instrument cluster, smart junction boxes, or standalone modules. The system then checks the code to make sure it is correct. If it's not then the system will disable parts that are essential to start the vehicle, such as the starter motor or ignition. This will make the car nearly impossible to start without the correct key.
Since its inception, the immobiliser has been an extremely effective tool for reducing car theft. Despite this the fact that thieves are always looking for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these techniques is a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that demonstrated how easy it is to wire a vehicle.
Most insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser when they calculate premiums, making it more attractive to purchase cars that already have this feature. However, even cars equipped by the manufacturer with an immobiliser can experience problems with it. Fortunately, these problems are usually straightforward and affordable to fix. A dying or dead keyfob battery is typically the cause of a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. A quick diagnostic test can uncover the problem. If the issue continues to persist it could be due to other reasons for the car's behavior, such as electrical issues or a wiring issue. If this is the case, it's best to have a professional diagnose and repair the problem.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, called a transponder, is built inside the head portion of your car keys. This technology was introduced in vehicles manufactured after 1995. It is also referred to a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its function is to stop your engine from starting if another person has a duplicate of your key. It works by transmitting a radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system of your car. If car key fob repair in the car's computer matches the signal from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
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. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal, not battery power.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits a flash of IR energy, which is absorbed by the microchip within the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code the immobiliser of your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory to the transponder's and if the two codes match it will start the engine.
If the immobiliser is able to detect an unauthorized transponder or key is in use, it will disable the engine and block any of its vital components from working. Without a functioning engine the vehicle will not be able to move, and it will be easy for criminals to wire the vehicle and drive away. This is a powerful way to deter crime, and is one of the main reasons why it's essential to have your car's key immobiliser repaired as soon as you notice any issue with it. If you don't do this, the security light on your car will continue to flash and it will be inaccessible for you to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a tiny battery that transmits an electrical signal to the transponder chip inside your key. This is an anti theft device that stops anyone from driving your car without the proper key. If the system cannot identify a digital serial number from the chip in your key, it will deactivate the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from starting.
The car immobiliser is an excellent method to deter thieves, however it can sometimes be out of in sync. This can be due to interference or a system that is too sensitive. If this is the situation, it might need to be reset. To do this, just disconnect the battery. Then leave it off for around 15 minutes then reinsert it and start the vehicle. This will reset the system and allow it to accept your key once more.
The security light is the car immobiliser's way of telling you that there's an issue with the system. If the light is on when you try to start your vehicle, it indicates that the code in the ECU is not compatible with the chip in the key. This could happen if you have recently replaced your car key with another that has not been programmed to the vehicle, or in the event that you've had a defective swapped ECU.
If this is the case it is recommended to take your key or transponder chip to a professional to get them properly programmed for your car. 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 switch it to the ON position but don't attempt to start the engine. Keep the key in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should turn on, and then go off. If it doesn't then you'll need to repeat the process and wait another 10 minutes. This should solve the issue when you repeat the process three times.
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 micro-chip that can't be duplicated and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will disconnect when it doesn't recognize the code. That's why it's difficult to defeat.
Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it difficult to wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system works by sending a code from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU will then verify that it's the correct key and that the code isn't compromised. The system will not allow the car to start if it does not receive the correct code. Certain models will even notify the owner when they attempt to use an unapproved fob or key.
However, the system is not impervious to theft. Some thieves have been able to get around the immobiliser using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wiring in a vehicle in order to fool the ECU. However, this method is pretty risky and requires a great deal of experience in order to carry out the procedure without damaging yourself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have switched to more sophisticated methods like using specialized apps or Bluetooth to steal a car's data and remotely control it using their mobile.
Car owners are often faced with warning lights that indicate that the immobiliser has gone off the rails. This can occur for various reasons, but the most common reason is a defective battery in the keyfob. A simple replacement should fix the issue.
If this isn't working, the transponder chip might be faulty or mismatched with the ECU. This is harder to diagnose and fix as it could require a specialist locksmith or dealership. However, a car immobiliser can also be damaged by water intrusion or even being removed from the fob or key. If any of these issues occur, it's recommended to visit the nearest garage or dealer to seek assistance.