Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer to prevent car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob, there may be a problem with the transponder chip not transmitting an encryption code to the immobilizer system.
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's immobiliser to find out what you can do.
Battery
It is crucial to focus on the revenue and cost-savings opportunities that your auto repair shop. You can do this by offering key fob replacements as well as reprogramming your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but will also boost your shop's profit without having to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the key fob battery. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent 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 examines the code to make sure it's correct. If the code isn't correct it will disable the elements that are crucial to starting the car, like the ignition or starter motor. The car will be impossible to start if you don't have the correct key.
Since its introduction, the immobiliser has been an extremely effective tool for reducing the theft of cars. However it is not uncommon for thieves to look for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these techniques is a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showcased how easy it is to connect a vehicle with hot wires.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums, making it more appealing to shop for a car that already has this feature. However, even vehicles that were factory-fitted with an immobiliser can experience issues with it. These issues are typically simple and inexpensive to solve. Most times an immobiliser that is not working properly is the result of a dead or dying key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test could reveal this issue. If the problem persists and continues to recur, there could be other causes of the car's misbehaviour, including electrical problems or a wiring issue. If this is the case, it's best to consult a professional for a diagnosis and repair the problem.
Transponder Chip
In cars manufactured after 1995, a tiny electronic chip referred to transponder is embedded in 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 someone else has the same key. It works by sending a radio frequency from the key to your immobiliser. If the code stored in the computer of the car matches the signal transmitted by the key the immobiliser will be deactivated and the engine will begin to run.
The key with the transponder chip is often referred to as a 'fob' or a smart key because it is much more difficult to duplicate than a conventional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a standard key, but not a transponder one. In contrast to the central locking element remote of a conventional key, which uses battery power, a transponder chip is powered by an infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted by the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder chip the ignition cylinder needs to be turned to the ON position. The ring emits a blast of IR energy, which is picked up by the microchip in the key. The chip responds with an unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The car's computer checks the code stored in its memory to the one from the transponder chip and if they match, the engine will start.
The immobiliser will shut down the engine when it detects an unauthorized key or transponder. It also stops all vital components of the car from functioning. The car will not move in the event that the engine is not functioning. It's easy for a criminal hot-wire it to drive away. This is a powerful way to deter criminals and is one of the reasons why it's important to have your car key immobiliser repaired when you spot an issue. If you don't do this, the security light on your vehicle will continue to flash and it will be inaccessible to start your engine.
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 stops anyone from opening your car without the correct key. If the system cannot detect a digital serial number from the chip in your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser, which will stop the car starting.
This system for car immobilisation is an an effective way to stop thieves but sometimes it can be out of sync with the key or transponder chip. This can be due to interference or the system is too sensitive. This may need an adjustment. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reinstall the battery and then restart the vehicle. This will reset the key system so that it is ready to accept keys once more.
The security light is an immobiliser's method of alerting you to an issue. If car key repair service is illuminated and you attempt to start your car, it is a sign that the code stored in the ECU does not match the chip in the key. This could happen if have recently replaced the car key with a different one that was not programmed to the vehicle or in the event that you've had a defective swapped ECU.
If this is the case you should 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 is not accepting the key due to a software bug or update. To test this, put your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position but don't try 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 does not, you will need to repeat this process and wait for another 10 minutes. Do this three times and the problem is likely to be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser blocks the engine from running if a key or fob is not properly programmed. It is a unique RFID chip that is unable to be copied and has a digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disconnected in the event that it is unable to recognize the code. It's difficult to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it difficult to wire a car or use a different key as a starter. The system works by checking the chip inside the key fob or a key and sending a passcode back to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is aware that it's the right key and that it doesn't have to been compromised code. The system won't allow the car to start if it does not receive the correct code. Some models even inform the owner if they try to use an unapproved fob or key.
However the system isn't completely secure. Certain thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves crossing the wrong wires in the wiring of a vehicle, which fools the ECU to believe that the appropriate fob or key is being used. But, this technique is quite risky and requires a lot of experience to do it without cutting yourself. Additionally, many modern car thieves have switched over to more advanced methods like using specialized apps or Bluetooth to steal the car's information and remotely control it from their phone.
Car owners often see warning lights that indicate that the immobiliser has gone haywire. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but one of the most frequent is a faulty or dead battery on the key fob. A simple replacement can fix this problem.
If this does not work it could be because the transponder chip is faulty or the ECU is not compatible. This is harder to determine and fix since it could require a specialist locksmith or dealership. However, a car's immobiliser may be damaged by water intrusion, or even being pulled away from the fob or key. If you encounter any of these issues it is a good idea to consult an auto dealer in your area or garage for assistance.