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 won't start after inserting the key fob there could be a problem with the transponder chip not sending a security code to the immobiliser system.
This is a straightforward fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's examine the different components of your vehicle immobiliser to discover what you can do.
Battery
It is crucial to concentrate on the profit and cost-saving opportunities of your auto repair shop. One method to achieve this is to provide key fob replacement and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but will also boost your shop's profit without the need sublet the dealership.
The key fob battery is used to power the remote locking and opening systems. However, it does not power the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip located in the fob or key. This chip transmits a passcode from the key or fob to the immobilizer unit of the car, which could be integrated into the PCM (power control module) BCM (brake control module), instrument cluster smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system examines the code to make sure it's correct. If the code is not correct, the system disables components that are essential to starting the car, such as the starter motor or ignition. The car will be nearly impossible to start if the driver doesn't have the correct key.
Since its introduction, the immobiliser has been a very effective tool in reducing car theft. However thieves are always looking for ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these strategies is an upcoming trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showcased how easy it is to hot-wire a vehicle.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums, making it more appealing to purchase cars that already have this feature. However, even cars that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser may experience issues with it. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple and inexpensive to solve. Most times, a faulty immobiliser is the result of the dying or dead key fob battery. This can be determined by an instant diagnostic test. If the issue continues, 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 tiny electronic chip, called transponder, is incorporated inside the head portion of your car keys. This technology was first introduced in vehicles manufactured after 1995. Also known as a chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it's created to stop the engine from starting if someone else has a copy of your car key. It works by transmitting the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code in the car's computer matches that signal from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key with the transponder chip is sometimes called"fob" or a "smart" key because it is more difficult to duplicate than a conventional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a traditional key but not a transponder one. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal and not battery power.
To activate the transponder chip the ignition cylinder has to be turned to the ON position. The ring emits a burst IR energy which is received by a microchip in the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code your car's immobiliser. The car's computer compares the code in its memory with the one from the transponder chip and if they match, the engine will start.
If the immobiliser is able to detect an unauthorized transponder or key is in use it will shut down the engine and prevent the essential components from functioning. The car won't move in the event that the engine is not working. It is easy for criminals to wire it and drive off. This is a powerful deterrent to crime, and is why you should have your car key-immobiliser repaired promptly if it develops a fault. If you don't fix it, the security light in your car will continue to flash and it will be impossible to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a tiny battery that sends an electrical signal to the transponder chip in your key. This is an anti-theft device that blocks anyone from starting your car without the correct key. If the system is not able to recognize an electronic serial number from the chip in your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser, which will stop the car starting.
The car immobiliser is a fantastic method of deterring thieves, but it can occasionally be out of the sync. This could be due to interference or an immobiliser that is too sensitive. This may need a reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. It should be left disconnected for around 15 minutes, then insert it and begin the car. This will reset the key system to ensure that it is ready to accept your keys once again.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's way of telling you that there is a problem with the system. If the light is illuminated and you attempt to start your car, it means that the code in the ECU is not compatible with the chip inside the key. This can occur when your car's key was replaced with an alternative key that is not programmed to work with the vehicle, or when an ECU was swapped in a wrong manner.
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 update or software issue. To test this, put your key in the ignition and switch it to ON but don't try to start the engine. The key should remain in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should come on, then go off. If it doesn't, you will need to repeat this procedure and wait another 10 minutes. This should solve the issue if you repeat it three times.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents a car's engine from running without a key that is programmed correctly or fob. It uses a special RFID chip that is unable to be copied and has a digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disconnected in the event that it is unable to recognize the code. That's why it's so difficult to beat.
Modern cars are fitted with this security system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to hot-wire a vehicle or use a different key for starter. The system works by checking the chip in the key fob or key, and sending a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU then knows that it's the correct key and that the passcode hasn't been compromised. The system will not allow the car to begin when it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models even inform the owner if they try to use an unapproved fob or key.
The system isn't completely impervious to attack, but it is. Certain thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser by using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wire in a vehicle in order to fool the ECU. But, this technique is pretty risky and requires a lot of experience in order to do it without electrocuting yourself. Modern car thieves are also using more advanced methods, such as Bluetooth or other specialized apps to obtain information about a vehicle and remotely manage it remotely.
Car owners will often get warning lights that indicate the immobiliser has gone haywire. It can occur for a variety of reasons, but the most common is a faulty or dead battery on the key fob. This issue can be resolved by replacing the battery.
If remote key fob repair doesn't work it could be because the transponder chip is defective or the ECU is not matched. This is harder to diagnose and fix as it could require a specialist locksmith or dealership. A car immobiliser may also be damaged if water manages to get into the system or if it is physically pulled away from its fob or key. If any of these problems occur, it's a good idea visit an auto garage or a local dealer to seek assistance.