Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Today, the majority of vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer to stop car theft. If your vehicle won't start after inserting the key fob, it could be an issue with a transponder that's not sending a security signal to the immobiliser.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's examine the different components of your car immobiliser and what you can do to get it fixed.
Battery
It is essential to concentrate on the cost-savings and revenue opportunities that your auto repair shop. You can achieve this by providing key fob replacements as well as reprogramming your customers. This will not only assist your customers, but it will also add to the profits of your shop without subletting to the dealership.
Typically, the key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the key fob battery. The immobiliser is powered by the transponder in the fob, key or instrument cluster. The chip transmits a code from the fob or key to the immobilizer module of the car, which can be integrated into the PCM (power control module), BCM (brake control module), instrument cluster smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system then checks the code to ensure it is correct. If it is not, the system will disable parts that are essential to start the vehicle, like the ignition or starter motor. The car will be impossible to start if you don't have the right key.
Since its inception, the immobiliser has been an extremely effective tool for reducing car theft. However thieves are always seeking ways to bypass these security measures. One of these is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that demonstrates how easy it is to connect hot wires to an automobile.
Insurance companies are now taking the use of an immobiliser in calculating premiums. This makes it more appealing to purchase a vehicle with this feature. However, even cars that were factory-fitted with an immobiliser may experience problems with it. Fortunately, these issues are usually straightforward and affordable to repair. The majority of the time the issue is caused by the dying or dead key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test can identify the issue. If the issue continues, it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. It is best to have a professional diagnose the problem and fix it.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, called a transponder, is built into the head portion of your car keys. This technology was introduced in vehicles manufactured after 1995. It is also referred to as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its purpose is to stop the engine from starting when someone else has the same key. It works by transmitting a radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code in the car's computer matches the signal sent from the key, it will disable the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key that has a transponder can also be referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, as it is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key. Using specific techniques, it is possible to copy a standard 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 must be turned on. The ring emits a flash of IR energy which is picked up by the microchip in the key. The chip then sends an individual code to the immobiliser of your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory with the transponder's code and when the two codes match it will begin the engine.
If the immobiliser detects an unauthorized transponder or key is in use, it will disable the engine and stop any of its essential components from working. The car won't move in the event that the engine is not functioning. It would be easy for criminals to wire it to drive away. This is a powerful deterrent to crime, and is one of the reasons why it is essential to get your car key immobiliser repaired as soon as you notice any issue with it. If you do not take action, the security light on your vehicle will continue flashing and you will not be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip in your key. It is an anti-theft device that blocks anyone from starting your car without the proper key. If the system cannot detect a digital serial from the chip in your key, it will shut off the engine immobiliser to prevent the car from starting.
The car immobiliser is a great method of deterring thieves, however it can sometimes be out of in sync. This could be due to interference or the system being too sensitive. If this is the case it may need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reinstall the battery and restart the car. This will reset the system and allow it to accept your key again.
The security light is an immobiliser's method of warning you of a problem. If you try to start the car but the light stays on it indicates that the chip inside your key isn't compatible with the code that is stored in the ECU. This could happen if you have recently replaced your car key with another that was not programmed to the vehicle, or when you've had a damaged swapped ECU.
If this is the situation, it's best to take your key or transponder chip to a professional for them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key due to an update or software issue. To test this, put your key in the ignition and switch it to ON 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 then you must repeat the procedure and wait for another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times and the problem should be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser blocks the engine from running if the fob or key is not programmed correctly. It utilizes a specific RFID chip that is unable to be copied and has a digital serial number. key fob repairs will be disengaged if it doesn't recognise the code. It's difficult to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to connect the car to a hot wire or use another key for starter. The system works 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 in the event that someone attempts to use a wrong fob or key.
The system isn't completely foolproof, however. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves crossing the wrong wires through a vehicle's wiring to fool the ECU into thinking that the appropriate fob or key is being used. This is a risky technique and requires extensive knowledge to avoid electrocuting oneself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have switched over to more advanced methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to steal the car's information and remotely control it via their mobile.
Car owners will often get warning lights that indicate that the immobiliser has gone off the rails. This can happen for various reasons, but the most common is a faulty or dead battery in the key fob. A simple replacement should fix the issue.
If this does not work it could be because the transponder chip is defective or the ECU is not matched. This is more difficult to determine and fix since it could require an expert locksmith or a 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 any of these issues occur, it's recommended to visit the nearest garage or dealer for assistance.