Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Today, the majority of vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle won't start after inserting the key fob it could be a problem with a transponder that's not sending a security signal to the immobilizer.
This is a simple fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's take a look at the different parts of your vehicle immobiliser to find out what you can do.
Battery
It is crucial to concentrate on the profit and cost-saving 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 will also boost your shop's profit without having sublet the dealership.
Typically the battery for the key fob powers the remote opening and locking systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the battery in the key fob. Instead, the immobiliser depends on the transponder chip located in the fob or key. This chip transmits a code to the car's immobilizer device which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM, instrument cluster smart junction box or standalone module. The system then checks the code to ensure that it is correct. If it is not, the system will disable parts that are essential to start the vehicle, such as the ignition or starter motor. The car will be nearly impossible to start if you do not have the right key.
The immobiliser system has been highly effective in decreasing car theft since its introduction. Yet, thieves are constantly looking for ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it can be to hot-wire an vehicle.
Insurance companies are now factoring the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums. This makes it more attractive to buy a car with this feature. Even vehicles that are factory fitted with an immobiliser might have problems. Fortunately, these problems are usually simple and inexpensive to solve. A dying or dead keyfob battery is typically the reason for a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be confirmed with an instant diagnostic test. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's recommended to have a professional diagnose and fix the problem.
Transponder Chip
In cars manufactured after 1995, a small electronic chip, referred to as transponder is embedded in the head of your car key. Also referred to as a 'chip key' or a 'transmitter and responder key, it is created to stop the engine from starting if someone else has a copy of your car key. It works by sending the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code stored in the computer of the car is in line with the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will be removed and the engine will be able to start.
The key with the transponder is also referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key due to the fact that it is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key. With the help of special techniques, it is possible to duplicate a standard car key, but not the transponder key. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal, not battery power.
To turn on the transponder, the ignition cylinder has to be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst IR energy that is detected by a microchip in the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code to your car's immobiliser. The computer in the car examines the code repair car key in its memory to the one on the transponder and If the two codes are identical it will begin the engine.
The immobiliser shuts down the engine if it detects an unauthorised transponder or key. It also stops all vital components of the car from working. Without a functioning engine the car will not be able to move, and it could be easy for criminals to wire the vehicle and drive away. This is a great deterrent to criminals, which is why you should have your car key-immobiliser repaired as soon as you can if it develops a fault. If you don't do this, the security light on your car will continue to flash and it will be impossible to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that transmits an electrical signal to the transponder chip inside your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting their car without the correct keys. If the system cannot detect a digital serial number from the chip in your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to prevent the car starting.
The car immobiliser is a great method to deter thieves, however it can sometimes be out of in sync. This could be due interference or a system that is too sensitive. This may require a reset. To do this, just disconnect the battery. Leave it disconnected for about 15 minutes before reinstalling it and start the car. This will reset the system and make it ready to accept your key again.
The security light is an immobiliser's way of warning you of the presence of a problem. If you attempt to start the car and the light stays on, it indicates that the chip in your key doesn't match the code that is stored in the ECU. This can occur in the event that your car's key was replaced with a new key that's not compatible with the vehicle, or if the ECU was swapped in a wrong manner.
If this is the situation, then you need to go to a professional to have the key or the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. It is possible that the system will not accept the key due to a software update or glitch. To test, insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Don't try to start the car. Let the key remain in this position for 10 minutes. This should cause the security lights to come on and then to go off. If it doesn't, you'll have to repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. This should solve the issue when you repeat the process three times.
Programming
A car immobiliser prevents a car's engine from running without a properly programmed key or fob. It makes use of a unique RFID micro-chip that can't be duplicated and comes with its own serial number. The immobiliser will be disengaged if it doesn't recognise the code. It's difficult to beat.
Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it very difficult to hot-wire the car or use a different key as a starter. The system works by analyzing the chip in the key fob or a key and sending a passcode back to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU knows it's the correct key and that there hasn't be compromised code. The system won't permit the car to start if the doesn't receive the correct code, and some models will even inform the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an unapproved key or fob.
The system is not foolproof, however. Certain thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using techniques like 'hot-wiring'. This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle in order to trick the ECU. However, this method is pretty dangerous and requires a lot of knowledge of how to do it without damaging yourself. In addition, many modern car thieves have moved to more sophisticated methods such as using specialised apps or Bluetooth to steal a car's data and remotely control it using their mobile.
Car owners will often get warning lights that indicate the immobiliser has gone off the rails. This could be due to various reasons but the most frequent reason is a defective battery in the keyfob. The issue can be solved by an easy replacement.
If this isn't working, the transponder chip might be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is more difficult to diagnose and fix as it may require a professional locksmith or dealership. A car's immobiliser can be damaged if water manages to enter the system or if it is physically removed from its fob or key. If you experience any of these issues, it is a good idea that you visit a local car dealer or garage for assistance.