Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Today, the majority of vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer in order to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob, there could be a problem with a transponder chip that is not sending a security code to the immobiliser system.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's take a look at the different parts of your vehicle's immobiliser to see what you can do.
Battery
It is essential to focus on the cost-savings and revenue opportunities that your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but will also boost the profits of your business without having to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it doesn't provide power to the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip that is located in the fob or key. The chip transmits a passcode to the immobilizer unit of the car which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM, the instrument cluster smart junction box, or standalone module. The system then checks the code to make sure it is correct. If the code isn't correct it will disable the components that are crucial to starting the car, like the ignition motor or starter motor. The car will be impossible to start if you do not have the right key.
Since its introduction the immobiliser has proven to be an extremely effective tool in reducing the theft of cars. Despite this, thieves are always looking for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these strategies is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it can be to hot-wire an vehicle.
Insurance companies are now taking in the use an immobiliser when calculating premiums. This makes it more appealing to purchase a vehicle with this feature. Even vehicles equipped with an immobiliser might have problems. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple and inexpensive to repair. Most of the time, a faulty immobiliser is caused by the dying or dead key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test could uncover the problem. If the problem persists it could be due to other causes for the vehicle's misbehaviour, including electrical issues or a wiring issue. If this is the case, it's best to consult a professional for a diagnosis and fix the problem.
Transponder Chip
In cars made after 1995, a tiny electronic chip, referred to as a transponder is built into the head of your car key. Also referred to as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter & responder' key, it is designed to stop the engine from starting if another person has the same key. It works by transmitting an audio signal from the key to your immobiliser. If homesite on the car's computer matches the signal from the key, it will deactivate the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key that has a 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. Using special methods, it is possible to copy a standard car key however, not the transponder key. Unlike the remote central locking element of a conventional key, which uses battery power the transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted through the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder chip the ignition cylinder needs to be switched to ON. The ring emits a flash of IR energy which is absorbed by the microchip inside the key. The chip then sends an individual code to the immobiliser in your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory to the one from the transponder chip, and If they are compatible the engine will be able to start.
If the immobiliser is able to detect an unauthorized transponder or key is being used it will shut down the engine and block any of its essential components from working. Without a functioning engine the car will not be able to move, and it would be very easy for a criminal to wire the vehicle and then drive away. This is a powerful way to deter crime and it is one of the reasons why it's important to have your car key immobiliser repaired as soon as you notice an issue. If you don't fix it, the security light on your vehicle will continue to flash and it will be inaccessible for you to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser makes use of a tiny battery to send an electrical signal to the chip in your key. This anti-theft device stops anyone from starting the car if they don't have the correct keys. If the system cannot identify a digital serial number from the chip inside your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser and prevent the car from getting started.
This system for car immobilisation is an effective in stopping thieves, but it is also possible for it to become out of connection with the key or transponder chip. This could be due to interference or the system is too sensitive. If this is the situation, it may need to be reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. Leave it disconnected for about 15 minutes, then insert it and start the car. This will reset the key system, so that it is ready to accept your keys once again.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's method of letting you know that there's a problem with the system. If you try to start the car but the light stays on it indicates that the chip inside your key doesn't match the code that is stored in the ECU. This could happen if your car key has been replaced by an alternative key that is not programmed to work with the vehicle, or if the ECU has been swapped incorrectly.
If this is the case, it's best to take your key or transponder chip to a professional for them properly programmed for your vehicle. It is possible that the system isn't able to accept the key because of a software update or bug. To test this put your key in the ignition and turn it to ON but don't try to start the engine. Keep the key in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should come on, and then go off. If it doesn't, you'll have to repeat the process and wait for 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 correctly programmed key or fob. It makes use of a unique RFID microchip that cannot be duplicated and comes with its own serial number. The immobiliser will stop working in the event that it doesn't recognize the code. That's why it's so difficult to defeat.
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 checking the chip inside a key fob or key and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU will then verify that it's the correct key and that the passcode isn't compromised. The system won't permit the car to start if it doesn't have the correct code, and some models will even inform the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an unapproved fob or key.
The system isn't foolproof, however. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser by using methods like hot-wiring. This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle in order to trick the ECU. However, this is extremely risky and requires a great deal of experience in order to carry out the procedure without cutting yourself. Modern car thieves are also employing more sophisticated methods for instance, Bluetooth or specialised apps to obtain information about a vehicle and remotely manage it remotely.
Car owners are often faced with warning lights that signal that the immobiliser has gone off the rails. This can occur for a variety of reasons however the most common one is a malfunctioning battery in the keyfob. This issue can be resolved by an easy replacement.
If this isn't working the transponder chip could be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is more difficult to determine and fix since it may require a specialist 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 any of these issues occur, it's a good idea visit a local garage or car dealer to seek assistance.