Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most cars are equipped with an immobilizer to prevent theft. If your vehicle won't start after inserting your key fob it could be due to a problem with a transponder that isn't sending a security signal to the immobilizer.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's take a look at the different elements 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 essential to be aware of your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. You can achieve this by providing key fob replacements and reprogramming for 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 opening and locking systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the battery in the key fob. The immobiliser is powered by the transponder in the key, fob or instrument cluster. This chip sends a passcode to the car's immobilizer unit, which may be built into the PCM, BCM or instrument cluster, smart junction box or standalone module. The system then verifies the code to ensure that it is correct. If the code is incorrect, the system disables elements that are crucial to starting the car, like the ignition or starter motor. This will make the car difficult to start without the right key.
The immobiliser system has proven extremely effective in reducing car theft since its introduction. However, thieves are constantly looking for ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these strategies is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it is to wire an vehicle.
Insurance companies are now taking the use of an immobiliser to calculate premiums. This makes it more appealing to buy a car with this feature. Even cars equipped with an immobiliser may have problems. These issues are typically simple and affordable to fix. A dying or dead keyfob battery is typically the cause of a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be confirmed with an easy diagnostic test. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. It is best to seek out a professional to determine the issue and fix it.
Transponder Chip
In vehicles manufactured after 1995, a small electronic chip referred to transponder is integrated into the head of your car key. Also known as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter and responder key, it's designed to stop the engine from starting if a third party has the same key. It works by transmitting radio signals from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code on the car's computer is in line with the signal sent from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key that is equipped with a transponder chip is often referred to as a 'fob' or a smart key due to the fact that it is more difficult to duplicate than a conventional mechanical key. With the help of special methods, it is possible to copy a standard car key however, not transponder keys. Unlike the central locking element remote of a standard key that relies on 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, the ignition cylinder must be in the ON position. The ring emits a blast of IR energy which is detected by the microchip inside the key. The chip responds with an unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory to the transponder's and If the two codes are identical it will start the engine.
If the immobiliser detects that an unauthorized transponder or key is in use it will shut down the engine and stop any of its essential components from functioning. The car won't move when the engine isn't functioning. It would be easy for criminals to wire it and then drive off. This is an effective deterrent to crime, and is why you should have your car key-immobiliser repaired as quickly as possible if it develops a fault. If you don't do this, the security light on your car will keep flashing 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 inside your key. This is an anti theft device that blocks anyone from driving your car without the correct key. If the system cannot detect an electronic serial number from the chip in your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to stop the car from starting.
The car immobiliser is a great method to deter thieves, but it can sometimes be out of sync. This could 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 system and allow it to accept your key again.
The security light is an immobiliser's way of alerting you to a problem. If you try to start your car and the light stays on it indicates that the chip inside your key isn't compatible with the code that is stored in the ECU. This can occur when your car's 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 situation, it's best to take your key or transponder chip to a professional for them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. mobile key repair There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key because of an issue with the software or an update. To test this, place your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position but don't attempt to start the engine. Keep the key in this position for ten minutes. The security light should turn on, then go off. If it doesn't then you must 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 when the fob or key are not programmed correctly. It makes use of a unique RFID micro-chip that can't be duplicated and comes with its own digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disconnected when it doesn't recognize the code. It's difficult to beat.
Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it very difficult to wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system works by checking the chip inside the key fob or key, and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is then able to determine that it's the right key and that the code hasn't been compromised. The system won't allow the vehicle to start if it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models will even report back to the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an unapproved key or fob.
However the system isn't foolproof. Certain thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wires in the wiring of a vehicle to trick the ECU to believe that the proper key or fob is being used. But, this technique is pretty risky and requires a great deal of experience in order to do it without electrocuting yourself. Modern car thieves are also employing more sophisticated methods, like Bluetooth or specialised apps to take over a car's data and remotely manage it.
Car owners will often get warning lights that indicate that the immobiliser is malfunctioning. This could be due to many reasons, but the most common one is a malfunctioning battery in the keyfob. A simple replacement should fix this issue.
If this doesn't work it could be because the transponder chip is faulty or the ECU is mismatched. This is more difficult to diagnose and fix and may require a specialist locksmith for cars or a dealership. However, a car immobiliser can also be damaged by water intrusion, or even being pulled away from the fob or key. If you experience any of these problems it is a good idea to visit the local car dealer or garage to seek help.