Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most vehicles are equipped with an immobilizer to prevent theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob there could be an issue with a transponder chip that is not transmitting an encryption code to the immobilizer system.
This is a simple fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's take a look at the different parts of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
If you're working in the field of auto repair it is crucial to be aware of your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. You can accomplish this by offering key fob replacements as well as reprogramming your customers. This will not only help your customers but will also boost your shop's profits without subletting to the dealership.
Typically, the key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the battery in the key fob. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip that is located in the fob or key. This chip transmits a passcode from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit in the car, which could be integrated into the PCM (power control module) or BCM (brake control module) instrument clusters, smart junction boxes, or standalone modules. The system then checks the code to make sure it is correct. If it is not then the system will disable parts that are essential to start the vehicle, like the starter motor or ignition. The car will be nearly impossible to start if you do not have the right key.
The immobiliser system has proven highly effective in decreasing car theft since its first introduction. Despite this it is not uncommon for thieves to look for new ways to bypass 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 connect a vehicle with hot wires.
Insurance companies are now factoring the use of an immobiliser to calculate premiums. This makes it more attractive to buy a car with this feature. Even cars equipped with an immobiliser could have problems. Fortunately, these problems are usually simple and inexpensive to repair. A dead or dying keyfob battery is usually the cause of a faulty ignition immobiliser. This can be confirmed with a quick diagnostic test. If the problem persists then it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's recommended to seek out a professional to diagnose and repair the issue.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, also known as a transponder, is built into the head portion of your car keys. The technology was introduced in cars manufactured after 1995. It is also referred to a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its purpose is to prevent the engine from starting when someone else has a duplicate of your key. It functions by sending the 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 sent from the key, it will disable the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key that has a transponder is also referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, because it is more difficult to copy than mechanical keys. It is possible to duplicate a conventional key, but not a transponder key. In contrast to the central locking element remote of a standard key which uses battery power the transponder chip is 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 blast of IR energy that is detected by the microchip in the key. The chip then sends an unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The computer in the car examines the code in its memory to the one on the transponder 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 the essential components from working. Without a functioning engine the vehicle will not be able to move and it could be easy for criminals to hot-wire the vehicle and then drive off. This is a powerful security measure against crime, and is the reason why you should get your car key-immobiliser repaired promptly if it develops a fault. If you don't, the security light in 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 within your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting their car without the correct keys. If the system is unable to identify a digital serial number from the chip inside your key, it will deactivate the engine immobiliser and stop the car from getting started.
This system for car immobilisation is an effective in stopping thieves but sometimes it can become out of sync with the key or the transponder chip. This can be due to interference or the system becoming too sensitive. This may require the system to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. Leave it disconnected for about 15 minutes then reinsert it and begin the car. This will reset the system and allow it to accept your key once more.
The security light is an immobiliser's method of alerting you to the presence of a problem. If you attempt to start the car and the light stays on, it indicates that the chip in your key isn't compatible with the code that is stored in the ECU. This can happen if you have recently replaced the car key with one 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 for them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key due to an issue with the software or an update. To test this, put your key in the ignition and switch it to ON but don't try to start the engine. Let the key remain in this position for 10 minutes. This should cause the security light to come on and then to go off. If it doesn't, you'll need to repeat the process and wait for another 10 minutes. This should solve the problem if you repeat it three times.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents the car's engine from operating without a properly programmed key or fob. It utilizes a specific RFID chip that is unable to be duplicated and has a unique digital serial number. The immobiliser will disengage when it is unable to recognize the code. It's hard to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it difficult to hot-wire a car or utilize a different key for starter. The system works by analyzing the chip in the key fob or a key and sending a passcode back to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU knows it's the correct key and hasn't be compromised code. The system won't allow the car to start when it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models even inform the owner if they attempt to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system is not impervious to attack, but it is. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser by using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wires through the wiring of a vehicle to trick the ECU into thinking the appropriate fob or key is being used. This is a risky technique and requires extensive experience to avoid electrocuting oneself. Modern car thieves are also employing more sophisticated methods, for instance, Bluetooth or specialised apps to obtain information about a vehicle and remotely manage it remotely.
Car owners will frequently be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser that has gone out of control. This can occur for a variety of reasons, but the most common one is a faulty car key repairs battery in the keyfob. The issue can be solved by replacing the battery.
If this doesn't work, the transponder chip might be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is harder to diagnose and fix as it may require an expert locksmith or a dealership. However, a car immobiliser can be damaged by water intrusion, or even being pulled away from the fob or key. If you encounter any of these problems it is a great idea to consult an auto dealer in your area or garage for assistance.