Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Today, the majority of vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer in order to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle will not start after inserting the key fob it could be an issue with a transponder which isn't sending a security signal to the immobilizer.
This is a quick fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's examine the different parts of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
If you're in the auto repair business it is crucial to be aware of your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. One method to achieve this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only assist your customers but will also increase the profits of your business without having to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery is used to power the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the battery in the key fob. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip on the fob or key. This chip transmits a code to the immobilizer unit of the car that can be integrated into the PCM, BCM, the instrument cluster, smart junction box or standalone module. The system then validates the code to ensure that it is correct. If the code is incorrect the system will disable elements that are crucial to start the car, like the ignition or starter motor. This will make the vehicle difficult to start without the correct key.
Since its introduction, the immobiliser has been a very effective tool in reducing the theft of cars. However, thieves are constantly seeking ways to bypass these security measures. One of these methods includes a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showcased how easy it is to connect a vehicle with hot wires.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser in calculating premiums, which makes it more attractive to purchase an automobile that has this feature. However, even vehicles that were factory-fitted with an immobiliser may experience problems with it. Fortunately, these issues are usually straightforward and affordable to solve. Most of the time, a faulty immobiliser is caused by the dying or dead key fob battery. This can be determined by a quick diagnostic test. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. It's best to have a professional diagnose the problem and fix it.
Transponder Chip
In cars manufactured after 1995, a small electronic chip referred to transponder is embedded in the head of your car key. Also referred to as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it's created to stop the engine from starting if someone else has an exact copy of your car key. It functions by sending an audio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system inside your car. If the code in the car's computer is in line with the signal transmitted by the key, it will disable the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key that is equipped with a transponder chip can be referred to as a 'fob' or a "smart" key due to the fact that it is more difficult to duplicate than a traditional mechanical key. Using special techniques, it is possible to copy a standard car key however, not a transponder key. Unlike the central locking element remote of a conventional key, which uses battery power, a transponder chip powered by an infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted through the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder chip, the ignition cylinder needs to be switched to ON. The ring emits a burst of IR energy, which is detected by the microchip in the key. The chip then responds with an unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The car's computer checks the code stored in its memory with that from the transponder chip and if they match, the engine will start.
If the immobiliser detects that an unauthorised transponder or key is in use, it will disable the engine and block any of its essential components from working. The car will not move when the engine isn't functioning. It is easy for a criminal hot-wire it and drive off. This is a powerful security measure against crime, and is the reason why you should get your car's key-immobiliser repaired as soon as you can when it has a problem. If you don't, the security light in your vehicle will continue to flash and it will be impossible for you to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser utilizes a small battery to transmit an electrical signal to the 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 identify a digital serial number from the chip in your key it will disengage the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from getting started.
This system for car immobilisation is an effective in stopping thieves, but it is also possible for it to become out of sync with the key or transponder chip. This can be due to interference or the system being too sensitive. If this is the situation, it could be necessary to reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. Then leave it off for around 15 minutes, then insert it and start the vehicle. This will reset the key system, so that it is ready to accept your keys once again.
The security light is an immobiliser's way of alerting you to a problem. If you try to start the car and the light stays on it indicates that the chip inside your key doesn't match the code that is stored in the ECU. This could happen if have recently replaced your car 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, it's best to take your key or transponder chip to a professional to have them properly programmed for your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key due to an update or software issue. To test this, put your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position but don't attempt to start the engine. The key should remain in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should turn on, and then go off. If it doesn't, you'll have to repeat the process and wait for another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times and the problem should be solved.
Programming
car keys repair stops the engine of a car from running without a correctly programmed key or fob. It uses a special RFID micro-chip that can't be duplicated and has its own digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disengaged in the event that it doesn't recognize the code. That's why it's difficult to defeat.
Modern cars are fitted with this security system by default. This makes it really hard to wire the car hot or use a different key as a starter. The system works by checking the chip in a key fob or key and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU knows it's the correct key and that there hasn't be compromised code. The system will not allow the car to start if it does not receive the correct code. Some models will even notify the owner if a person tries to use an incorrect key or fob.
The system is not impervious to attack, but it is. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser by using techniques such as 'hot wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wires through the wiring of a vehicle, which fools the ECU into thinking the proper key or fob is being used. However, this is extremely risky and requires a great deal of experience in order to accomplish it without cutting yourself. Modern car thieves are using more advanced methods, for instance, Bluetooth or other specialized apps to take over a car's data and remotely manage it remotely.
Car owners often be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser gone haywire. This can occur for many reasons however the most common one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. The issue can be solved by replacing the battery.
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 may require an expert locksmith or a dealership. However, a car immobiliser may also be damaged due to water ingress or even physically being removed from the fob or key. If any of these issues occur, it's a good idea visit a local garage or car dealer to seek assistance.