Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most vehicles are equipped with an immobilizer that prevents car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob, there could be an issue with the transponder chip not sending a security code to the immobilizer system.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's look at the various components of your vehicle's immobiliser and discover what you can do.
Battery
If you're working in the field of auto repair, it is important to focus on your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. One method to achieve this is to provide key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but also increase the profits of your shop without having sublet the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the battery in the key fob. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip on the fob or key. This chip transmits a passcode from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit 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 checks 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 ignition or starter motor. The car will be nearly impossible to start if you don't have the right key.
The immobiliser system has proven extremely effective at decreasing car theft since its introduction. Despite this it is not uncommon for thieves to look for new ways to bypass these security measures. One of these techniques is a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showcased how easy it is to hot-wire a vehicle.
Insurance companies are now taking the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums. This makes it more appealing to buy a car with this feature. Even vehicles equipped with an immobiliser may be prone to problems. These issues are typically simple and inexpensive to solve. The majority of the time an immobiliser that is not working properly 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 problems or wiring issues. It is best to let a professional identify the issue and then solve it.
Transponder Chip
In cars made after 1995, a small electronic chip called transponder is embedded in the head of your car key. Also referred to as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it is designed to prevent the engine from starting if a third party has the same key. It works by sending radio signals from the key to your immobiliser. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal transmitted by the key the immobiliser will then be disarmed and the engine will be able to start.
The key with the transponder chip can be referred to as"fob" or a smart key due to the fact that it is more difficult to duplicate than a conventional mechanical key. Using specific techniques, it is possible to copy a conventional car key but not a transponder key. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal not battery power.
To activate the transponder chip the ignition cylinder needs to be turned on. The ring emits a burst of IR energy, which is picked up by the microchip within the key. The chip then sends an unique code to the immobiliser of your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory to the one from the transponder chip, and when they match, the engine will start.
If the immobiliser is able to detect an unauthorized transponder or key is being used it will shut down the engine and stop the essential components from functioning. The car won't move in the event that the engine is not functioning. It would be easy for a criminal to hot-wire it and then drive off. This is a powerful way to deter crime and it is one of the main reasons why it is essential to get your car's key immobiliser fixed immediately you discover a fault with it. If you don't take this action then the security light on your vehicle will continue flashing and you will not be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that sends an electrical signal to the transponder chip in your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting the car if they don't have the correct keys. If the system can't identify a digital serial number from the chip in your key, it will deactivate the engine immobiliser and prevent the car from getting started.
This system for car immobilisation is an an effective way to stop thieves, but it is also possible for it to be out of in sync with the key or transponder chip. This could be due to interference or the system becoming too sensitive. This may require a reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, you can reinstall the battery and restart the car. This will reset the key system so that it is ready to accept keys once more.
The security light is the car immobiliser's way of telling you that there is a problem with the system. If the light is on when you attempt to start your vehicle, it indicates 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 key with another that has not been programmed to the vehicle or when you've had a damaged swapped ECU.
If this is the situation, then you need to go to a professional to have the transponder or key chip properly programmed to your vehicle. It's possible that your system isn't able to accept the key due to a software upgrade or glitch. To test, insert your key in the ignition and turn the ON position. Don't try to start the car. Keep the key in this position for 10 minutes. This should cause the security light to come on and then to turn off. If it does not you'll need to repeat the procedure and wait for another 10 minutes. This should solve the issue If you repeat the procedure three times.
Programming
The car immobiliser prevents the engine from running if the fob or key are not properly programmed. It uses a special RFID chip that can't be copied and has a digital serial number. The immobiliser will stop working in the event that it is unable to recognize the code. That's why it's so difficult to defeat.
Modern cars are equipped with this security system by default. This makes it very difficult to wire the car hot or use another key for starter. The system works by analyzing the chip in the key fob or key and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU will then verify that it's the correct key and that the passcode hasn't been compromised. The system won't permit the car to start if it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models will even inform the owner if a person tries to use an incorrect key or fob.
The system is not foolproof, however. Some thieves have been able to get around the immobiliser using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. car remote key repair near me involves crossing the wrong wires in a vehicle's wiring to fool the ECU into thinking that the proper key or fob is being used. But, this technique is quite dangerous and requires a lot of experience in order to accomplish it without electrocuting yourself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have switched to more sophisticated methods such as using specialised apps or Bluetooth to hijack a car's data and remotely control it from their mobile.
Owners of cars will often see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser that has gone out of control. This can happen for various reasons, but one of the most common is a dead or defective battery in the key fob. This issue can be resolved by replacing the battery.
If this does not work, it could be that the transponder chip may be defective or the ECU is not compatible. This is harder to diagnose and fix as it may require a professional locksmith or dealership. The car immobiliser could also be damaged if water manages to get into the system, or if it is physically removed from its fob or key. If you encounter any of these problems, it is a good idea to visit an auto dealer in your area or garage to seek help.