Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Nowadays, all vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer to prevent car theft. If your vehicle isn't starting after inserting the key fob there could be a problem with a transponder chip that is not sending an encryption code to the immobiliser system.
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 immobiliser to discover what you can do.
Battery
It is essential to concentrate on the cost-savings and revenue opportunities that your auto repair shop. One method to achieve this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only assist your customers, but it will 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 is not powered by the key fob battery. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip on the fob or key. The chip transmits a code from the key or fob to the immobilizer module of the car, which can be integrated into the PCM (power control module) or BCM (brake control module), instrument cluster smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system then checks the code to ensure it is correct. If it is not, the system will disable elements that are crucial to the start of the vehicle, like the ignition or starter motor. The car will be impossible to start if the driver doesn't have the right key.
The immobiliser system has been highly effective in decreasing car theft since it was first introduced. However, thieves are always looking for new ways to get around these security measures. One of these is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it is to wire an automobile.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser when they calculate premiums, making it more attractive to buy a car that already has this feature. However, even cars that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser can experience problems with it. These problems are often easy and cheap to fix. The majority of the time an immobiliser that is not working properly is caused by a dead or dying key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test can identify the issue. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's best to consult a professional for a diagnosis and repair the problem.
Transponder Chip
In vehicles manufactured after 1995, a small electronic chip referred to a transponder is built into the head of your car key. Also known as car keys repair or a 'transmitter & responder' key, it is created to stop the engine from starting if a third party has an exact copy of your car key. It works by sending a radio frequency from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code stored in the computer of the car matches the signal transmitted by the key the immobiliser will be disarmed and the engine will start.
The key with the transponder is also referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key due to the fact that it is more difficult to copy than mechanical keys. Utilizing special techniques, it is possible to duplicate a standard car key, but not the transponder key. Unlike the central locking element remote of a standard key which uses battery power, a transponder chip powered by an infrared (IR) signal transmitted by the antenna ring that is located on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst IR energy that is detected by a microchip inside the key. The chip responds by transmitting a unique code to your car's immobiliser. The car's computer analyzes the code stored in its memory to the one on the transponder and when the two codes match, it will start the engine.
The immobiliser shuts down the engine in the event of an unauthorized key or transponder. It also blocks any vital parts of the car 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 way to deter crime and it is one of the main reasons why it's important to have your car's key immobiliser fixed immediately you discover an issue. If you do not take action, the security light on your vehicle will continue flashing and you will not be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser utilizes a small battery to transmit an electrical signal to the chip in your key. This anti-theft device prevents anyone from starting their car without the correct keys. If the system is unable to detect a serial number digital from the chip inside your key it will disengage the engine immobiliser and prevent the car from starting.
This car immobiliser system is effective in stopping thieves, but it is also possible for it to get out of in sync with the key or transponder chip. This can be due to interference or an immobiliser that is too sensitive. If this is the case it may 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 system and make it ready to accept the key again.
The security light is an immobiliser's method of alerting you to an issue. If you attempt to start the car but the light stays on it means that the chip in your key doesn't match the code stored in the ECU. This could happen if you have recently replaced your car key with one that isn't programmed to the 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 transponder or key chip properly programmed to your vehicle. It is possible that the system won't accept the key due to a software update or glitch. To test this, insert your key in the ignition and then turn it to the ON position. Do not attempt to start the car. Keep the key in this position for ten minutes. The security light should turn on, then go off. If it does not then you must repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times, and the issue should be solved.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents a car's engine from running without a key that is programmed correctly or fob. It makes use of a unique RFID microchip that cannot be copied and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will stop working if it does not recognise the code. That's why it's difficult to beat.
Modern cars come with this security system by default. This makes it very difficult to wire the car hot or use a different key as a 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 hasn't be compromised code. The system won't allow the car to start if it does not receive the correct code. Certain models will even notify the owner if they try to use a wrong fob or key.
The system is not foolproof, however. Some thieves have bypassed the immobiliser with techniques like 'hot-wiring.' This involves using the wrong wiring in an automobile to trick the ECU. However, this is quite risky and requires a lot of knowledge of how to carry out the procedure without cutting yourself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have moved to more sophisticated methods such as using specialised apps or Bluetooth to steal the car's information and remotely control it from their phone.
Owners of cars will often notice warning lights that signal an immobiliser that has gone out of control. This could be due to many reasons however the most common reason is a defective battery in the keyfob. A simple replacement should fix the issue.
If this isn't working the transponder chip could be faulty or mismatched with the ECU. This is more difficult to diagnose and fix and may require an expert locksmith for cars or a dealership. However, a car immobiliser may also be damaged by water ingress or even physically being pulled away from the fob or key. If you encounter any of these problems it is a good idea that you visit a local car dealer or garage for assistance.