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 it could be due to an issue with a transponder that's not sending a security message to the immobiliser.
This is a straightforward fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's look at the various components of your vehicle immobiliser to see what you can do.
Battery
If you are involved in the auto repair industry, it is important to be aware of your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. You can achieve this by offering key fob replacements as well as reprogramming your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but will also boost your shop's profit without having to sublet to the dealership.
Typically the key fob battery powers the remote opening and locking systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the key fob battery. Instead, the immobiliser depends on the transponder chip in the fob or key. This chip transmits a passcode from the key or fob to the immobilizer module of the car. It can 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 checks the code to make sure it is correct. If it is not it is, the system will shut down parts that are essential to start the vehicle, such as the starter motor or ignition. This makes the car difficult to start without the correct key.
Since its inception the immobiliser has proved to be an extremely effective tool in decreasing car theft. Yet the thieves are always trying to get around these security measures. One of these methods includes a recent trend known as the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showcased how easy it is to connect a vehicle with hot wires.
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 that are factory fitted with an immobiliser might have problems. These problems are often easy and affordable to fix. Most times the issue is caused by a dead or dying key fob battery. This can be confirmed with an instant diagnostic test. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's recommended to consult a professional for a diagnosis and repair the issue.
Transponder Chip
In cars made after 1995, a small electronic chip, referred to as transponder is integrated into the head of your car key. It is also referred to as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its goal is to stop the engine from starting when another person has an identical key. It works by sending an audio signal from the key to the immobiliser system. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal sent from the key, it will disable the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key with the transponder chip can be referred to as"fob" or a smart key because it is more difficult to clone than a traditional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a conventional key but not a transponder one. In contrast to the remote central locking element of a conventional key which uses battery power, a transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted through the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits a blast of IR energy, which is absorbed by the microchip in the key. key repair car responds with an individual code to the immobiliser of your car. The computer in the car examines the code in its memory to the one on the transponder and if the two codes match it will start the engine.
The immobiliser will shut down the engine if it detects an unauthorised transponder or key. It will also prevent all vital components of the vehicle from working. Without a functioning engine the vehicle won't be able to move, and it will be easy for a criminal to hot-wire the vehicle and then drive away. This is a powerful deterrent to criminals and is one of the reasons why it is essential to get your car key immobiliser repaired when you spot an issue. If you don't, the security light on your car will continue to flash and it will be difficult for you to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that sends an electric signal to the transponder chip within your key. This is an anti theft device that stops anyone from opening your vehicle without the proper key. If the system cannot detect a digital serial number from the chip on your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to stop the car starting.
This car immobiliser system is effective in stopping thieves, however it can be out of sync with the key or transponder chip. This could be due interference or an immobiliser that 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 begin the car. This will reset the system and make it ready to accept your key once more.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's way of telling you that there's an issue with the system. If you attempt to start the car but the light is solid on it indicates that the chip inside your key isn't in sync with the code stored in the ECU. This could happen if you have recently replaced your car key with one that has not been programmed to the vehicle, or if you've had a bad swapped ECU.
If this is the case it is recommended to take your key or transponder chip to a professional to have them properly programmed for your vehicle. It's possible that your system isn't able to accept the key due to a software upgrade or glitch. To test this, place your key in the ignition and switch it to the ON position but don't attempt to start the engine. The key should remain in this position for ten minutes. The security light should come on, and then go off. If it doesn't, you'll need to repeat the process and wait for another 10 minutes. This should solve the issue if you repeat it three times.
Programming
The car immobiliser blocks the engine from running when the fob or key are not programmed correctly. It is a unique RFID chip that is unable to be duplicated and has a unique digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disengaged in the event that it doesn't recognize the code. That's why it's difficult to defeat.
Modern cars come with this security system by default. This makes it extremely difficult to wire the car hot or use a different key as a 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 is aware that it's the right key and that there hasn't be compromised code. The system won't allow the car to begin if it does not receive the correct code. Some models even inform the owner if they try to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system isn't completely impervious to attack, but it is. Some thieves have managed to get around the immobiliser using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wires within a vehicle's wiring to fool the ECU into thinking the appropriate fob or key is being used. This method is risky and requires extensive experience to avoid electrocuting oneself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have moved over to more advanced methods such as using specialised apps or Bluetooth to take over the car's information and remotely control it from their phone.
Car owners will often get warning lights that indicate the immobiliser is malfunctioning. It can happen for various reasons, but the most common one is a malfunctioning battery in the keyfob. The issue can be solved by a simple replacement.
If this isn't working the transponder chip could be defective or mismatched with the ECU. This is harder to diagnose and fix as it may require a specialist locksmith or dealership. A car immobiliser may also be damaged if water is able to get into the system or if it is physically pulled away from its fob or key. If you encounter any of these problems it is a great idea to visit a local car dealer or garage to seek help.