Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer in order to prevent car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob, it could be an issue with a transponder which isn't sending a security signal to the immobilizer.
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 car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
If you're in the auto repair business it is essential to be aware of your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. One method to achieve this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but also increase your shop's profits without the need to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it doesn't power the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip in the key or fob. This chip transmits a code to the car's immobilizer unit, which may be built into the PCM, BCM or instrument cluster smart junction box or standalone module. The system then validates the code to make sure it is correct. If the code is not correct the system will disable elements that are crucial to starting the car, such as the ignition or starter motor. The car will be nearly impossible to start if you don't have the correct key.
Since its inception, the immobiliser has been a very effective tool in reducing car theft. However the thieves are always trying to get around these security measures. One of these is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it is to connect hot wires to an vehicle.
Insurance companies are now taking in the use an immobiliser in 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 could face problems with it. These issues are typically simple and affordable to fix. A dying or dead keyfob battery is usually the cause of a faulty ignition immobiliser. This can be identified with an easy diagnostic test. If the issue continues, it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. It is recommended to seek out a professional to identify the issue and then solve it.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, called a transponder, is built into the head portion of your car keys. This technology was introduced in cars made after 1995. Also known as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it's created to stop the engine from starting if someone else has an exact copy of your car key. It works by sending an audio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code stored in the car's computer is in line with the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will be disarmed and the engine will start.
The key with the transponder is also called a "fob" or a "smart" key, because it is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key. Utilizing special techniques, it is possible to duplicate a standard car key but not a 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 which is detected by a microchip in the key. The chip then sends an unique code to the immobiliser of your car. The computer in the car analyzes the code stored in its memory to the transponder's and If the two codes are identical, it will start the engine.
If the immobiliser detects that an unauthorized transponder or key is being used, it will disable the engine and prevent any of its essential components from functioning. The car won't move when the engine isn't working. It would be easy for a criminal to hot-wire it and drive off. This is a powerful deterrent to crime, and is why you must have your car's key-immobiliser fixed as quickly as possible if it develops a fault. If you don't do this and the security light on your car will continue flashing and you will not be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that sends an electric signal to the transponder chip inside your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting the car without the correct keys. If the system is unable to identify a digital serial number from the chip inside your key it will disengage the engine immobiliser and stop the car from beginning.
The car immobiliser is a great method to deter thieves, but it can occasionally be out of sync. This could be due to interference or an immobiliser that is too sensitive. This may require the system to be reset. To do this, 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 once more.
The security light is the car immobiliser's method of letting you know that there is an issue with the system. If you attempt to start the car and the light stays on, it indicates that the chip in your key isn't compatible with the code stored in the ECU. This could happen if your car key was replaced with a new one that is not programmed for the vehicle, or if the ECU was not swapped correctly.
If this is the case, then you need to go to a professional for assistance and get the the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key due to a software bug or update. To test this put your key in the ignition and switch it to ON but don't attempt to start the engine. Let the key stay in this position for ten minutes. This will cause the security light to come on and then to turn off. If it does not, you will need to repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Do this three times, and the issue will be resolved.
Programming
The car immobiliser stops the engine from running if a key or fob is not programmed correctly. It uses a special RFID microchip that isn't able to be duplicated and has its own digital serial number. The immobiliser will disengage when it is unable to recognize the code. That's why it's difficult to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it very difficult to wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system works by analyzing the chip in a key fob or key, and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU recognizes that it is the correct key and that it doesn't have to been a compromise in the code. The system will not allow the vehicle to start if it does not receive the correct code. Some models will even report back to the owner if someone tries to use a wrong key or fob.
The system is not impervious to attack, but it is. Some thieves have managed to get around the immobiliser using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wiring in a vehicle in order to trick the ECU. This method is risky and requires a lot of expertise to avoid electrocuting yourself. key fob repairs are using more advanced methods, such as Bluetooth or other specialized apps to steal a car's information and remotely control it remotely.
Car owners often see warning lights that indicate 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 due to a damaged or dead battery on the key fob. This problem can be fixed by replacing the battery.
If this does not work, it could be that the transponder chip may be defective or the ECU is mismatched. This is harder to determine and fix since it may require a professional locksmith or dealership. However, a car immobiliser can also be damaged by water intrusion, or even being pulled away from the fob or key. If you experience any of these issues it is a good idea to visit a local car dealer or garage to seek help.