Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Today, the majority of vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer to stop car theft. If your vehicle won't start after inserting your key fob it could be an issue with a transponder which isn't sending a security message to the immobilizer.
This is a quick 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 discover what you can do.
Battery
If you're working in the field of auto repair it is crucial to focus on your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. You can accomplish this by providing key fob replacements and reprogramming for your customers. This will not only help your customers but will also boost your shop's profits without subletting to the dealership.
Typically the battery for the key fob powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it doesn't power the immobiliser. The immobiliser is powered through the transponder located in the fob, key or instrument cluster. This chip transmits a passcode from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit of the car, which could be integrated into the PCM (power control module) BCM (brake control module for brake control), instrument clusters, smart junction boxes, or standalone modules. The system then verifies the code to ensure it is correct. If the code is not correct it will disable the components that are crucial to start the car, like the starter motor or ignition. electronic car key repair will make the vehicle difficult to start without the correct key.
Since its inception the immobiliser has proved to be a very effective tool in reducing car theft. However thieves are always seeking ways to bypass these security measures. One of these is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok, which shows how easy it is to wire an automobile.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums, making it more attractive to buy a car that already has this feature. Even vehicles equipped with an immobiliser could have problems. These issues are usually simple and inexpensive to solve. A dying or dead keyfob battery is typically the cause of a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be determined by a quick diagnostic test. If the problem persists then it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. It is best to let a professional diagnose the problem and solve it.
Transponder Chip
In cars made after 1995, a small electronic chip referred to transponder is integrated into the head of your car key. Also referred to as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it is designed to stop the engine from starting if a third party has a copy of your car key. It works by sending an audio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system of your car. If the code in the car's computer matches the signal from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
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. With the help of special techniques, it is feasible to copy a conventional car key however, not transponder keys. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal not battery power.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder must be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst of IR energy, which is picked up by the microchip within the key. The chip then sends a unique code to the immobiliser inside your car. The car's computer examines the code in its memory with the transponder's code and when the two codes match it will begin the engine.
If the immobiliser is able to detect an unauthorized transponder or key is being used, it will disable the engine and prevent any of its essential components from functioning. The car will not move if the engine is not functioning. It is easy for criminals to wire it to drive away. This is a powerful security measure against crime, and is why you must have your car's key-immobiliser repaired promptly if it develops a fault. If you don't do this, the security light in your car will keep flashing and it will be difficult to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a tiny battery that transmits an electrical signal to the transponder chip within your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting the car if they don't have the proper keys. If the system is unable to detect a serial number digital from the chip inside your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser and stop the car from getting started.
The car immobiliser is a fantastic way to deter thieves, however it can sometimes get out of in sync. This could be due to interference or the system becoming too sensitive. This could need the system to be reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reconnect the battery and then restart the vehicle. This will reset the key system to ensure that it is ready to accept your keys once again.
The security light is an immobiliser's method of warning you of the presence of a problem. If the light is illuminated and you attempt to start your car, it means that the code stored in the ECU is not compatible with the chip inside the key. This can happen if you have recently replaced your car's key with one that has not been programmed to the vehicle or when you've had a damaged swapped ECU.
If this is the case then it's time to go to a professional for assistance and get the the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key because of a software bug or 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. The security light should come on, then go off. If it does not, you will need to repeat this procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Do this three times, and the issue should be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser prevents the engine from running if the fob or key is not properly programmed. It is a unique RFID chip that can't be duplicated and has a unique digital serial number. The immobiliser will stop working when it doesn't recognize the code. It's tough to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to hot-wire the car or use another key for starter. The system operates by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU is aware that it's the right key and that there hasn't been a compromise in the code. The system will not allow the vehicle to start if it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models will even notify the owner if someone tries to use an incorrect key or fob.
However the system isn't completely secure. Certain thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser by using methods like hot-wiring. This involves crossing the wrong wires within a vehicle's wiring to fool the ECU into thinking that the appropriate fob or key is being used. This method is risky and requires a lot of knowledge to avoid electrocuting oneself. Modern car thieves are employing more sophisticated methods, such as Bluetooth or other specialized apps to take over a car's data and remotely manage it.
Car owners often see warning lights that signal that the immobiliser has gone haywire. This can happen for various reasons, but the most frequent causes is a faulty or dead battery on the key fob. The issue can be solved by a simple replacement.
If this doesn't work, it could be that the transponder chip may be defective or the ECU is mismatched. This is more difficult to diagnose and fix as it may require a specialist locksmith or dealership. The car immobiliser could also be damaged if water is able to enter the system, or if it is physically pulled away from its fob or key. If any of these issues occur it's a good idea to visit an auto garage or a local dealer to seek assistance.