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 an issue with the transponder chip not sending an encryption code to the immobiliser system.
This is a simple fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's take a look at the different parts of your vehicle's immobiliser to find out what you can do.
Battery
It is crucial to focus on the profit and cost-saving opportunities of your auto repair shop. You can do this by offering key fob replacements and reprogramming for your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but also increase the profits of your shop without the need to sublet to the dealership.
Typically, the key fob battery powers the remote opening and locking systems. However, it does not supply power to the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip that is located on the fob or key. The chip transmits a passcode to the immobilizer unit of the car which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM or instrument cluster smart junction box or standalone module. The system then validates the code to ensure it is correct. If the code isn't correct, the system disables components that are crucial to the start of the car, like the ignition motor or starter motor. This makes the car nearly impossible to start without the right key.
Since its inception, the immobiliser has been a very effective tool in reducing the theft of cars. Despite this, thieves are always looking for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these methods includes an upcoming trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showcased how easy it is to wire a vehicle.
The majority of insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser when calculating rates, which makes it more attractive to shop for an automobile that has this feature. Even cars equipped with an immobiliser might be prone to problems. Fortunately, these problems are usually straightforward and affordable to solve. A dead or dying keyfob battery can be the cause of a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. A quick diagnostic test will reveal this issue. If the issue continues to persist, then there might be other causes of the car's irregular behavior, such as electrical problems or a wiring issue. It's best to have a professional identify the issue and then repair it.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, also known as transponder, is incorporated inside the head portion of your car keys. This technology was introduced in vehicles manufactured after 1995. It is also known as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its goal is to stop the engine from starting when another person has the same key. It works by transmitting a radio frequency from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code in the car's computer matches that signal sent from the key, it will deactivate the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key with a transponder is also referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, as it is more difficult to duplicate than mechanical keys. It is possible to duplicate a conventional key but not a transponder key. Contrary to the remote central locking element of a conventional key, which uses battery power, a transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted by the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits IR energy which is received by a microchip in the key. The chip responds by transmitting a unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The computer in the car analyzes the code stored in its memory to the transponder's code and If the two codes are identical it will begin the engine.
If the immobiliser is able to detect an unauthorised transponder, key or other device is in use, it will disable the engine and block any of its essential components from working. The car won't move in the event that the engine is not working. It is easy for a criminal hot-wire it and drive off. This is a powerful 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 do not take action then the security light on your car will keep blinking, and you won't be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser makes use of a tiny battery to send an electrical signal to the chip in your key. This is an anti theft device that blocks anyone from starting your vehicle without the right key. If the system cannot detect a serial number digital from the chip inside your key, it will deactivate the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from getting started.
The car immobiliser is a great way to deter thieves, but it could sometimes be out of the sync. This could be due 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 restart the vehicle. This will reset the key system so that it is ready to accept your keys again.
The security light is an immobiliser's way of warning you of an issue. If the light is on when you attempt to start your car, it means that the code stored in the ECU is not compatible with the chip on the key. This could happen if have recently replaced the car key with another that isn't programmed to the vehicle, or in the event that you've had a defective swapped ECU.
If this is the situation, then you need 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, place your key in the ignition and switch it to ON but don't try to start the engine. Keep the key in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should come on, then turn off. If it doesn't then you must repeat this procedure and wait another 10 minutes. This should solve the issue when you repeat the process three times.
Programming
A car immobiliser prevents the car's engine from operating without a properly programmed key or fob. It is a unique RFID chip that is unable to be copied and is equipped with a digital serial number. The immobiliser will stop working if it does not recognise the code. It's tough to beat.
car key repair service have this system as standard. This makes it really hard to wire the car hot or use another key for starter. The system works by sending a code from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU then knows that it's the right key and that the code hasn't been compromised. The system won't allow the car to start if it does not receive the correct code. Some models even notify the owner if they attempt to use an unapproved fob or key.
The system is not foolproof, however. Some thieves have bypassed the immobiliser with techniques such as 'hot wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wire in a vehicle to cause a malfunction in the ECU. But, this technique is pretty dangerous and requires a lot of experience to accomplish it without electrocuting yourself. Additionally, many modern car thieves have moved to more sophisticated methods like using specialized apps or Bluetooth to take over a car's data and remotely control it via their mobile.
Car owners will often get warning lights that indicate that the immobiliser has gone haywire. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but the most frequent causes is due to a damaged or dead battery on the key fob. A simple replacement can fix the issue.
If this does not work it could be because the transponder chip may be defective or the ECU is not matched. It is more difficult to fix and diagnose and may require an expert car locksmith or dealership. A car immobiliser may also be damaged if water is able to enter the system or if it is physically removed from its fob or key. If any of these issues occur it's recommended to visit a local garage or car dealer for assistance.