Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most cars are equipped with an immobilizer system that stops car theft. If your vehicle won't start after inserting the key fob it could be due to an issue with a transponder that isn't sending a security signal to the immobilizer.
This is a straightforward fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's take a look at the different elements of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
It is important that you focus on the cost-savings and revenue potentials of 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 add to the profits of your business without having to sublet to the dealership.
Typically the battery for the key fob powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it doesn't power the immobiliser. The immobiliser is powered by a transponder located in the fob, key or instrument cluster. The chip transmits a code from the key or fob to the immobilizer unit of the car, which can be integrated into the PCM (power control module) or BCM (brake control module), instrument clusters smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system then validates the code to ensure that it is correct. If the code isn't correct, the system disables components that are essential to the start of the car, like the ignition or starter motor. The car will be impossible to start if the driver doesn't have the right key.
The immobiliser has proven extremely effective in decreasing car theft since it was first introduced. However, thieves are always looking for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these strategies is a recent trend known as the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showed how easy it was to hot-wire a vehicle.
Insurance companies are now incorporating in the use an immobiliser when calculating premiums. This makes it more attractive to purchase a car that has this feature. However, even vehicles that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser could face problems with it. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple and inexpensive to fix. The majority of the time the issue is caused by an inactive or dead key fob battery. This can be identified with an instant diagnostic test. If the issue continues, it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's best to seek out a professional to diagnose and repair the problem.
Transponder Chip
In vehicles manufactured after 1995, a tiny electronic chip referred to transponder is integrated into the head of your car key. It is also known as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its purpose is to stop the engine from starting when another person has a duplicate of your key. It works by transmitting a radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code stored in the car's computer is in line with the signal transmitted by the key, it will deactivate the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key that is equipped with a transponder chip can be referred to as"fob" or a smart key because it is more difficult to copy than a traditional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a traditional key but not a transponder one. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal not battery power.
To activate the transponder the ignition cylinder must be in the ON position. The ring emits a flash of IR energy that is picked up by the microchip within the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code your car's immobiliser. The car's computer compares the code in its memory to the one from the transponder chip, and when they match, the engine will start.
If the immobiliser detects an unauthorised transponder or key is being used it will shut down the engine and stop any of its essential components from functioning. The car will not move in the event that the engine is not working. It is easy for criminals to wire it and then drive off. This is a powerful deterrent against criminals and is one of the main reasons why it's essential to have your car's key immobiliser repaired immediately you discover any issue with it. If you don't take this action, the security light on your car will continue blinking, and you won't be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to transmit an electrical signal to the chip that is in your key. It is an anti-theft device that prevents anyone from starting your vehicle without the proper key. If the system is unable to detect a serial number digital from the chip in your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser and prevent the car from starting.
The car immobiliser is an excellent method to deter thieves, however it can sometimes get out of in sync. This can be due to interference or the system being too sensitive. If this is the case, it may need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After remote key repairs , you can reinstall the battery and restart the car. This will reset the system and allow it to accept your key once more.
The security light is an immobiliser's way of alerting you to an issue. If the light is illuminated and you attempt to start your vehicle, it indicates that the code in the ECU does not match the chip in the key. This can happen if you have recently replaced your car's key with a different one that was not programmed to your vehicle or if you've had a bad swapped ECU.
If this is the case, then you need to go to a professional and 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 because of a software bug or update. To test this put your key in the ignition and turn 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 come on, 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 if you repeat it three times.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents the car's engine from operating without a correctly programmed key or fob. It makes use of a unique RFID micro-chip that can't be copied and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will stop working if it does not recognise the code. That's why it's so difficult to defeat.
Modern cars are equipped with this security system in the standard configuration. This makes it really hard to wire the car hot or use a different key as a starter. The system works by analyzing the chip inside a key fob or key, and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU will then verify that it's the correct key and that the code hasn't been compromised. The system won't permit the car to start if it does not receive the correct code. Some models will even report back to the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an incorrect key or fob.
However it isn't impervious to theft. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser using methods such as 'hot-wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wiring in a vehicle to trick the ECU. This is a risky method and requires extensive experience to avoid electrocuting oneself. Modern car thieves are also using more advanced methods, like Bluetooth or other specialized apps to steal a car's information and remotely control it.
Car owners will frequently see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser gone haywire. It can occur for a variety of reasons, but one of the most frequent causes is a dead or defective battery on the key fob. A simple repair should resolve this problem.
If this doesn't work it could be because the transponder chip may be defective or the ECU is not compatible. It is more difficult to diagnose and fix because it requires an expert car locksmith or dealership. A car immobiliser may also be damaged if water manages to get into the system or is physically pulled away from its fob or key. If you encounter any of these issues, it is a good idea to consult a local car dealer or garage to seek help.