Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Nowadays, all vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer in order to protect against theft of cars. 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 quick 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 concentrate on the profit and cost-saving potentials of your auto repair shop. One method to achieve this is to provide key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only help your customers but also increase the profits of your shop without subletting to the dealership.
Typically, the key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it doesn't supply power to the immobiliser. The immobiliser is powered through the transponder in the fob, key or instrument cluster. The chip transmits a passcode to the car's immobilizer device that can be integrated into the PCM, BCM, instrument cluster smart junction box or standalone module. The system then validates the code to make sure it is correct. If the code is not correct it will disable the components that are crucial to starting the car, like the starter motor or ignition. This will make the car nearly impossible to start without the correct key.
The immobiliser system has been extremely effective in cutting down on car theft since its introduction. However the fact that thieves are always looking for new ways to get around these security measures. One of these techniques 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 taking the use of an immobiliser to calculate premiums. This makes it more attractive to purchase a vehicle with this feature. Even vehicles that are factory-fitted with an immobiliser could be prone to problems. These issues are usually simple and inexpensive to solve. A dying or dead keyfob battery is usually the cause of a faulty ignition immobiliser. This can be determined by an instant diagnostic test. If the issue continues to persist it could be due to other reasons for the car's behavior, such as electrical problems or a wiring issue. If this is the case, it's recommended to consult a professional for a diagnosis and fix the issue.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, referred to as a transponder, is built in the head of your car keys. The technology was introduced in cars manufactured after 1995. Also known as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it's created to stop the engine from starting if another person has a copy of your car key. It works by sending radio signals from the key to the immobiliser system. If the code in the car's computer matches the signal sent from the key, it will disable the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key with the transponder can also be referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, because it is more difficult to duplicate than mechanical keys. With the help of special techniques, it is possible to copy a conventional car key however, not the transponder key. Contrary to the central locking element remote of a conventional key, which uses battery power, a transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted by the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder has to be in the ON position. The ring emits IR energy which is detected by a microchip inside the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code to your car's immobiliser. The car's computer compared the code in its memory to the one from the transponder chip and when they match the engine will be able to start.
If the immobiliser detects an unauthorised transponder, key or other device is being used it will shut down the engine and prevent any of its vital components from working. The car won't move if auto key repair the engine is not working. It is easy for a criminal hot-wire it to drive away. This is a powerful deterrent to criminals and is one of the main reasons why it's essential to have your car's key immobiliser repaired immediately you discover a fault with it. If you don't, the security light on your car will keep flashing and it will be impossible for you 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 device is designed to prevent anyone from starting the car if they don't have the correct keys. If the system is not able to recognize an electronic serial number from the chip on your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to prevent the car from starting.
The car immobiliser system is an an effective way to stop thieves, but it is also possible for it to become out of sync with the key or transponder chip. This could be due to interference or the system being too sensitive. If this is the case, it might need 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 key system, so that it is ready to accept your keys again.
The security light is an immobiliser's method of alerting you to a problem. If you attempt to start the car and the light stays on it means that the chip inside your key doesn't match the code that is stored in the ECU. This can happen if your car key was replaced with a new key that's not programmed to work with the vehicle, or if the ECU was not swapped correctly.
If this is the case you should bring your transponder key or chip to a professional to have them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key because of a software bug or update. To test this, insert your key into the ignition and then turn it to the ON position. Do not try to start the car. The key should remain 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 resolve the issue when you repeat the process three times.
Programming
The car immobiliser stops the engine from running when the fob or key is not programmed correctly. It is a unique RFID chip that cannot be copied and has a digital serial number. The immobiliser will disconnect when it doesn't recognize the code. That's why it's difficult to defeat.
Modern cars are equipped with this security system by default. This makes it really hard to hot-wire the car or use a different key as a starter. The system works by checking the chip in a key fob or key and sending a passcode back to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is then able to determine that it's the correct key and that the code hasn't been compromised. The system won't allow the car to start if it does not receive the correct code, and some models will even inform the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system is not foolproof, however. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser with techniques such as 'hot-wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wire in an automobile to trick the ECU. This method is risky and requires extensive expertise to avoid electrocuting yourself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have moved over to more advanced methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to steal the car's information and remotely control it via their phone.
Car owners will frequently be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser malfunctioning. This can happen for various reasons, but one of 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 doesn't work, it could be that the transponder chip may be defective or the ECU is mismatched. This is harder to fix and diagnose as it may require an expert locksmith or a dealership. However, a car's immobiliser can 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 a local garage or car dealer for assistance.