Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer to prevent car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob there may be a problem with a transponder chip that is not transmitting a security code to the immobiliser system.
This is a quick fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's look at the various elements of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to get it fixed.
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If you are in the auto repair business it is essential to be aware of your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. You can accomplish this by providing 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 sublet 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 depends on the transponder chip in the fob or key. The chip transmits a code from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit in the car. It can be integrated into the PCM (power control module), BCM (brake control module), instrument clusters smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system then verifies the code to make sure it is correct. If the code isn't correct it will disable the components that are crucial to the start of the car, such as the starter motor or ignition. The car will be nearly impossible to start if you do not have the correct key.
The immobiliser has proven extremely effective in reducing car theft since its introduction. Yet, thieves are constantly seeking ways to bypass these security measures. One of these methods is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok, which shows how easy it is to wire an automobile.
Insurance companies are now incorporating the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums. This makes it more attractive to purchase a car that has this feature. However, even cars equipped by the manufacturer with an immobiliser can experience issues with it. These issues are typically simple and inexpensive to solve. Most of the time an immobiliser that is not working properly is the result of the dying or dead key fob battery. This can be confirmed with a quick diagnostic test. If the issue continues, it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's best to have a professional diagnose and repair the issue.
Transponder Chip
In cars manufactured after 1995, a tiny electronic chip referred to transponder is embedded in the head of your car key. It is also referred to a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its goal is to stop your engine from starting when you have the same key. It works by transmitting the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system of your car. If the code in the car's computer matches the signal transmitted by the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key that is equipped with a transponder chip can be referred to as a 'fob' or a smart key due to the fact that it is more difficult to copy than a conventional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a standard key but not a transponder key. In contrast to the central locking element remote of a standard key which is powered by batteries, a transponder chip is powered by an infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted by the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder chip, the ignition cylinder has to be turned to the ON position. The ring emits IR energy which is detected by a microchip in the key. The chip then responds with an individual code to the immobiliser in your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory with the transponder's code and if the two codes match it will start the engine.
If the immobiliser detects an unauthorised transponder, key or other device is in use it will shut down the engine and prevent any of its essential components from functioning. The car will not 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 criminals and is one of the main reasons why it's essential to have your car's key immobiliser repaired when you spot a fault with it. If you don't do this then the security light on your car will keep blinking, and you won't be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip that is in your key. This anti-theft device stops anyone from starting the car without the correct keys. If the system is unable to detect a digital serial number from the chip in your key it will disengage the engine immobiliser and stop the car from starting.
The car immobiliser system is an an effective way to stop thieves but sometimes it can become out of in sync with the key or transponder chip. This can be caused by interference or the system being too sensitive. This may need an adjustment. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. Leave it disconnected for about 15 minutes then reinsert it and start the car. This will reset the key system, so that it is ready to accept your keys again.
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 your car and the light stays on, it means that the chip inside your key isn't in sync with the code that is stored in the ECU. This could happen in the event that your car's key has been replaced with an alternative key that is not programmed for the vehicle, or if the ECU has been swapped incorrectly.
If this is the situation, then it's time to go to a professional for assistance and get the transponder or key chip properly programmed to your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key because of a software bug or update. To test this, insert your key in the ignition and turn the ON position. Do not attempt to start the vehicle. Keep the key in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should turn on, and then go off. If it does not you'll need to repeat this procedure and wait another 10 minutes. This should solve the issue If you repeat the procedure three times.
Programming
A car immobiliser prevents the car's engine from operating without a key that is programmed correctly or fob. It uses a special RFID micro-chip that can't be copied and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will disconnect if it does not recognise the code. This is why it's so hard to beat.
Modern cars are equipped with this security system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to wire the car hot 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 is then able to determine that it's the right key and that the code isn't compromised. The system won't allow the car to begin in the event that it does not receive the correct code. Some models even notify the owner if they try to use a wrong fob or key.
The system isn't 100% secure, however. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using techniques like 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wires within the wiring of a vehicle to trick the ECU into thinking the correct key or fob is being used. This is a risky method and requires extensive knowledge to avoid electrocuting oneself. Modern car thieves are employing more sophisticated methods, such as Bluetooth or other apps that take over a car's data and remotely control it remotely.
Car owners often notice warning lights that signal an immobiliser that has gone out of control. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but one of the most frequent causes is a dead or defective battery on the key fob. A simple replacement can fix the issue.
If this doesn't work the transponder chip could be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is more difficult to determine and fix since it could require a specialist locksmith or dealership. However, a car's immobiliser may also be damaged due to water ingress or even physically being removed from the fob or key. If you encounter any of these problems, it is a good idea to consult a local car dealer or garage to seek help.