Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most cars are equipped with an immobilizer that prevents car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob, it could be an issue with a transponder that's not sending a security signal to the immobiliser.
This is a simple 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 find out what you can do.
Battery
It is essential to concentrate on the revenue and cost-savings opportunities of your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming to your customers. central locking key repair 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. The immobiliser isn't powered by the battery in the key fob. Instead, the immobiliser depends on the transponder chip located in the fob or key. The chip transmits a code from the key or fob to the immobilizer unit in the car. It can be integrated into the PCM (power control module) BCM (brake control module for brake control) instrument cluster smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system will check the code to make sure it's correct. If the code is not correct the system will disable components that are crucial to start the car, such as the ignition or starter motor. This will make the vehicle difficult to start without the correct key.
Since its introduction the immobiliser has proved to be a very effective tool in reducing the theft of cars. Yet thieves are always seeking ways to bypass these security measures. One of these techniques is an upcoming trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that demonstrated how easy it is to wire a vehicle.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums, which makes it even more appealing to shop for cars that already have this feature. Even vehicles equipped with an immobiliser might be prone to problems. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple and inexpensive to repair. The majority times, a faulty immobiliser is caused by an inactive or dead key fob battery. This can be identified with a quick diagnostic test. If the problem persists then it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's recommended to have a professional diagnose and repair the issue.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, referred to as transponder, is embedded into the head portion of your car keys. The technology was introduced in vehicles manufactured after 1995. It is also referred to as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its function is to stop the engine from starting when someone else has the same key. It functions by sending an audio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system of your car. If the code on the car's computer is in line with the signal from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key with a transponder can also be referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, because it is more difficult to copy than mechanical keys. With the help of specific methods, it is possible to duplicate a standard car key however, not a transponder key. Contrary to the central locking element remote of a conventional key which is powered by batteries the transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted by the antenna ring that is located on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder chip, the ignition cylinder must be turned to the ON position. The ring emits a flash of IR energy, which is picked up by the microchip inside the key. The chip then sends an unique code to the immobiliser inside your car. The car's computer compared the code stored in its memory with that from the transponder chip and when they match the engine will begin to rev.
If the immobiliser detects an unauthorised transponder, key or other device is in use, it will disable the engine and block any of its essential components from functioning. Without a functioning engine, the car will not be able to move, and it could be easy for criminals to wire the vehicle and then drive away. This is a great security measure against crime, and is the reason why you should get your car's key-immobiliser repaired promptly when it has a problem. If you don't take this action, the security light on your car will continue flashing and you will not be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a tiny battery that sends an electrical signal to the transponder chip within your key. This anti-theft device prevents anyone from starting the car without the proper keys. If the system can't identify a digital serial number from the chip inside your key, it will deactivate the engine immobiliser and stop the car from starting.
The car immobiliser is an excellent method to deter thieves, but it can sometimes be out of in sync. This can be due to interference or an immobiliser that is too sensitive. If this is the situation, it might need to be reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reinstall the battery and then restart the vehicle. This will reset the key system so that it is ready to accept keys once more.
The security light is the car immobiliser's method of letting you know that there is an issue with the system. If you try to start your car and the light stays on, it indicates that the chip in your key doesn't match the code stored in the ECU. This can happen if you have recently replaced the car key with a different one that isn't programmed to your vehicle or in the event that you've had a defective swapped ECU.
If this is the case then you need to go to a professional and have the the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. 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, put your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Do not attempt to start the vehicle. Keep the key in this position for ten minutes. The security light should come on, then turn off. If it does not 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 stops the engine from running if a key or fob is not properly programmed. It utilizes a specific RFID chip that can't be copied and is equipped with a digital serial number. The immobiliser will disengage when it is unable to recognize the code. This is why it's so hard to defeat.
Modern cars come with this security system as standard. This makes it very difficult to hot-wire the car or use another key for starter. The system works by sending a code from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU is aware that it's the right key and that it doesn't have to been a compromise in the code. The system will not allow the vehicle to start if it doesn't receive the correct code, and some models will even report back to the owner if a person tries to use an incorrect key or fob.
The system isn't 100% secure, however. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle to trick the ECU. However, this method is extremely risky and requires a lot of knowledge of how to carry out the procedure without cutting yourself. Modern car thieves are also employing more sophisticated methods, like Bluetooth or specialised apps to steal a car's information and remotely control it remotely.
Car owners often notice warning lights that signal an immobiliser that has gone out of control. It can occur for a variety of reasons, but one of the most frequent causes is a faulty or dead battery on the key fob. This issue can be resolved by a simple replacement.
If this isn't working the transponder chip could be defective or mismatched with the ECU. It is more difficult to diagnose and fix because it requires a specialist car locksmith or dealership. However, a car's immobiliser can also be damaged by water ingress or even physically being pulled away from the fob or key. If you experience any of these problems it is a great idea that you visit the local car dealer or garage for assistance.