Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most vehicles are equipped with an immobilizer system that stops car theft. If your vehicle isn't starting after inserting the key fob, there could be a problem with a transponder chip that is not sending a security code to the immobiliser system.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's examine the different elements of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to get it fixed.
Battery
If you're working in the field of auto repair it is essential to concentrate on your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. You can do this by offering key fob replacements as well as reprogramming your customers. This will not only help your customers, but it will also add to your shop's profits without subletting to the dealership.
The key fob battery is used to power the remote locking and opening systems. However, it doesn't power the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip in the key or fob. This chip transmits a passcode from the fob or key to the immobilizer module of the car, which can be integrated into the PCM (power control module) or BCM (brake control module), instrument cluster, smart junction boxes, or standalone modules. The system then validates the code to ensure that it is correct. If it is not, the system will disable parts that are essential to start the vehicle, like the ignition or starter motor. This will make the vehicle almost impossible to start without the right key.
The immobiliser has proven extremely effective at cutting down on car theft since its first introduction. However, thieves are constantly trying to get around these security measures. One of these strategies is a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showed how easy it was to wire a vehicle.
The majority of insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser when calculating rates, which makes it more attractive to buy an automobile that has this feature. Even cars that are factory fitted with an immobiliser may have problems. Fortunately, these problems are usually easy and cheap to solve. A dead or dying keyfob battery can be the reason for a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be identified with an instant diagnostic test. If the problem persists it could be due to other causes for the vehicle's behavior, such as electrical issues or a wiring issue. It's best to have a professional diagnose the problem and fix it.
Transponder Chip
In cars made after 1995, a tiny electronic chip called transponder is integrated into the head of your car key. Also referred to as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter and responder key, it is designed to prevent the engine from starting if another person has the same 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 transmitted by the key, it will deactivate the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key that has the transponder chip is sometimes called"fob" or a "smart" key because it is more difficult to clone than a traditional mechanical key. With the help of specific techniques, it is feasible to copy a conventional car key but not a transponder key. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal, not battery power.
To activate the transponder chip the ignition cylinder must be turned to the ON position. The ring emits IR energy which is received by a microchip inside the key. The chip then responds with an unique code to the immobiliser inside your car. The computer in the car compares the code stored in its memory to the transponder's and If the two codes are identical it will begin the engine.
The immobiliser will shut down the engine if it detects an unauthorised key or transponder. It will also prevent all vital components of the vehicle from functioning. Without a functioning engine, the vehicle will not be able to move, and it will be easy for criminals to wire the vehicle and then drive off. This is a powerful deterrent against crime, and is one of the main reasons why it's essential to have your car key immobiliser repaired immediately you discover a fault with it. If you don't take this action, the security light on your vehicle will continue blinking, and you won't be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that sends an electrical signal to the transponder chip inside your key. This anti-theft device prevents anyone from starting the car if they don't have the proper keys. If the system is unable to identify a digital serial number from the chip in your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from beginning.
The car immobiliser system is an an effective way to stop thieves, however it can be out of connection with the key or transponder chip. This can be due to interference or the system is too sensitive. If this is the case, it may need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. Then leave it off for around 15 minutes before reinstalling it and start the car. This will reset the key system so that it is ready to accept your keys again.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's method of letting you know that there is a problem with the system. If the light is illuminated and you try to start your car, it means that the code in the ECU does not match the chip in the key. This could happen if have recently replaced your car's key with another that isn't programmed to your vehicle or if you've had a bad swapped ECU.
If this is the situation, it's best to take your key or transponder chip to a professional to have them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. It's possible that your system won't accept the key because of a software update or glitch. To test this, insert your key in the ignition and then turn it to the ON position. Do not attempt to start the car. The key should remain in this position for 10 minutes. This should cause the security lights to turn on and to go off. If it doesn't then you'll need to repeat the process and wait for another 10 minutes. This should solve the problem when you repeat the process three times.
Programming
The car immobiliser blocks the engine from running when a key or fob is not properly programmed. It makes use of a unique RFID microchip that cannot be copied and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will be disconnected in the event that it is unable to recognize the code. It's tough to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to connect the car to a hot wire or use another key for starter. The system works by analyzing the chip in a key fob or key and sending a passcode back to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU then knows that it's the correct key and that the passcode isn't compromised. The system will not allow the car to begin in the event that it does not receive the correct code. Some models even notify the owner if they attempt to use an unapproved fob or key.
However, car key fob repairs is not completely secure. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves crossing the wrong wires in a vehicle's wiring to fool the ECU into thinking that the correct key or fob is being used. However, this method is pretty risky and requires a lot of experience to do it without damaging yourself. Additionally, many modern car thieves have shifted over to more advanced methods such as using specialised apps or Bluetooth to take over the car's data and then remotely control it via their phones.
Car owners will often get warning lights that indicate the immobiliser is malfunctioning. This could be due to a variety of reasons but the most frequent one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. This issue can be resolved by a simple replacement.
If this doesn't work, the transponder chip might be defective or mismatched with the ECU. This is more difficult to fix and diagnose as it may require a specialist locksmith or dealership. However, a car's immobiliser may be damaged by water ingress or even physically being removed from the fob or key. If you encounter any of these issues it is a great idea to consult a local car dealer or garage to seek help.