Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most cars are equipped with an immobilizer system that stops car theft. If your vehicle won't start after inserting your 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 that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's take a look at the different parts of your vehicle immobiliser to find out what you can do.
Battery
It is essential to focus on the cost-savings and revenue opportunities of your auto repair shop. You can accomplish 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 battery for the key fob powers the remote opening and locking systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the key fob battery. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip that is located in the key or fob. This chip transmits a passcode from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit of the car, which could be integrated into the PCM (power control module) BCM (brake control module for brake control) instrument cluster smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system then verifies the code to ensure that it is correct. If the code isn't correct the system will disable components that are crucial to the start of the car, like the starter motor or ignition. This will make the vehicle nearly impossible to start if you don't have the right key.
The immobiliser system has proven extremely effective in reducing car theft since its first introduction. However, thieves are constantly seeking ways to bypass these security measures. One of these methods includes a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showed how easy it was to hot-wire a vehicle.
Insurance companies are now taking in the use an immobiliser to calculate premiums. This makes it more attractive to purchase a car that has this feature. However, even vehicles that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser could face issues with it. These issues are typically simple and cheap to fix. The majority times the issue is caused by an inactive or dead key fob battery. This can be identified with an instant diagnostic test. If the issue continues, it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's best to have a professional diagnose and fix the issue.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, referred to as transponder, is embedded inside the head portion of your car keys. The technology was introduced in vehicles manufactured after 1995. Also known as a chip key or a 'transmitter and responder' key, it is designed to stop the engine from starting if a third party has an exact copy of your car key. It works by transmitting a radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will then be removed and the engine will be able to start.
The key with the transponder is also called a "fob" or a "smart" key due to the fact that it is more difficult to duplicate than mechanical keys. It is possible to duplicate a conventional key, but not a transponder one. Unlike the remote central locking element of a conventional key that relies on battery power, a transponder chip is powered by an infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted by the antenna ring that is located on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder chip the ignition cylinder has to be turned to the ON position. The ring emits a burst of IR energy, which is absorbed by the microchip inside the key. The chip then responds with an individual code to the immobiliser inside your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory with that from the transponder chip and when they match the engine will be able to start.
If the immobiliser detects that an unauthorized transponder or key is being used it will shut down the engine and block any of its vital components from functioning. The car will not move when the engine isn't functioning. It would be easy for a criminal to hot-wire it and drive off. This is a powerful deterrent against criminals and is one of the main reasons why it's important to have your car's key immobiliser repaired when you spot a fault with it. If you do not take action then the security light on your car will keep flashing and you will not be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser utilizes a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip inside your key. It is an anti-theft device that prevents anyone from driving your vehicle without the right key. If the system cannot detect a serial number digital from the chip in your key, it will deactivate the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from starting.
This car immobiliser system is an effective way to stop thieves, however it can get out of connection with the key or the transponder chip. This could be due to interference or a system that is too sensitive. This may need a reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reinstall the battery and then restart the vehicle. This will reset the key system to ensure that it is ready to accept keys once more.
The security light is an immobiliser's way of warning you of a problem. If you try to start your car and the light is solid on it means that the chip in your key isn't compatible with the code that is stored in the ECU. This can happen if you have recently replaced your car key with a different one that has not been programmed to the vehicle, or when you've had a damaged swapped ECU.
If this is the case it is recommended to take your transponder or key chip to a professional to get them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key due to an update or software issue. To test this, insert your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Do not try to start the car. Let the key remain in this position for ten minutes. This will cause the security light to turn on and to go off. If it does not, you will need to repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Repeat the process three times, and the issue will be resolved.
Programming
A car immobiliser prevents a car's engine from running without a key that is programmed correctly or fob. It utilizes a specific RFID chip that can't be copied and is equipped with a digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disconnected if it does not recognise the code. It's tough to beat.
Modern cars come with this security system by default. This makes it extremely difficult to wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system operates by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU recognizes that it is the correct key and that it doesn't have to been a compromise in the code. The system won't allow the car to start if it doesn't have the correct code, and some models will even notify the owner if someone tries to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system is not impervious to attack, but it is. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser by using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle to cause a malfunction in the ECU. This method is risky and requires extensive experience to avoid electrocuting oneself. 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 data and then remotely control it using their phones.
Owners of cars will often be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser gone haywire. It can happen for various reasons, but the most common one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. A simple replacement can fix the issue.
If electronic car key repair near me isn't working, the transponder chip might be defective or mismatched with the ECU. This is more difficult 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 issues, it is a good idea to visit a local car dealer or garage for assistance.