Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most vehicles are equipped with an immobilizer system that stops car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting your key fob it could be due to a problem with a transponder which isn't sending a security message to the immobilizer.
This is a simple fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's examine the different components of your vehicle's immobiliser to see what you can do.
Battery
If you are involved in the auto repair industry it is essential to focus on your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. 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 your shop's profit without the need sublet the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the key fob battery. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip that is located in the key or fob. The chip transmits a code from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit of the car, which can be integrated into the PCM (power control module), BCM (brake control module), instrument clusters smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system then checks the code to ensure it is correct. If the code is incorrect it will disable the components that are essential to the start of the car, such as the ignition motor or starter motor. This will make the vehicle nearly impossible to start without the right key.
Since its introduction, the immobiliser has been a very effective tool in reducing car theft. Yet remote key fob repair are always seeking ways to bypass these security measures. One of these methods is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok, which shows how easy it is to wire an vehicle.
Insurance companies are now incorporating in the use an immobiliser when calculating premiums. This makes it more attractive to purchase a car that has this feature. Even vehicles that are factory-fitted with an immobiliser may be prone to problems. Fortunately, these problems are usually easy and cheap to solve. Most times an immobiliser that is not working properly is caused by an inactive or dead key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test will identify the issue. If the issue persists it could be due to other reasons for the car's irregular behavior, such as electrical issues or a wiring problem. If this is the case, it's recommended to consult a professional for a diagnosis and fix the problem.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, called a transponder, is built in the head of your car keys. This technology was first introduced in vehicles manufactured after 1995. Also known as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it is created to stop the engine from starting if a third party has a copy of your car key. It works by transmitting radio signals from the key to your immobiliser. If the code on the car's computer is in line with the signal from the key, it will deactivate the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key that has the transponder chip is sometimes called a 'fob' or a smart key due to the fact that it is more difficult to copy than a conventional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a standard key, but not a transponder one. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal, not battery power.
To turn on the transponder, the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits a blast of IR energy that is absorbed by the microchip in the key. The chip responds by sending a 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.
If the immobiliser detects an unauthorised transponder or key is being used, it will disable the engine and block the essential components from functioning. The car won't move in the event that the engine is not working. It is easy for a criminal hot-wire it and drive off. This is a powerful deterrent against crime and it is one of the reasons why it's important to have your car's key immobiliser fixed when you spot a fault with it. If you don't take this action and the security light on your vehicle 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 electrical signal to the transponder chip in your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting their car without the correct keys. If the system is unable to detect a digital serial from the chip in your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to stop the car starting.
This system for car immobilisation is an an effective way to stop thieves, but it is also possible for it to be out of sync with the key or the transponder chip. This can be due to interference or the system being too sensitive. This could require the system to be reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. Then leave it off for around 15 minutes before reinstalling it and begin the car. This will reset the key system, so that it is ready to accept your keys once again.
The security light is the car immobiliser's method of letting you know that there's a problem with the system. If the light is on and you try to start your car, it is a sign that the code in the ECU does not match the chip on the key. This could happen when your car's key was replaced with a new key that's not compatible with the vehicle, or if an ECU was swapped in a wrong manner.
If this is the case you should bring your transponder key or chip to a professional for them properly programmed for your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key because of an update or software issue. To test, put your key in the ignition and turn the ON position. Do not try to start the car. The key should remain in this position for ten minutes. This will cause the security light to turn on and to turn off. If it doesn't then you'll need to repeat the process and wait for another 10 minutes. Do this three times and the problem will be resolved.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents the car's engine from operating without a correctly programmed key or fob. It is based on a specific RFID micro-chip that can't be duplicated and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will stop working when it is unable to recognize the code. This is why it's so hard to defeat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to wire the car hot or use another key for starter. The system operates by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU is then able to determine that it's the right key and that the code isn't compromised. The system will not allow the vehicle to start if it does not receive the correct code, and some models will even notify the owner if someone tries to use an unapproved key or fob.
However it isn't impervious to theft. Some thieves have gotten around the immobiliser using methods like 'hot-wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wires through the wiring of a vehicle to trick the ECU into thinking the proper key or fob is being used. However, this is pretty risky and requires a lot of knowledge of how to accomplish it without damaging yourself. Modern car thieves are also employing more sophisticated methods, for instance, Bluetooth or other apps that obtain information about a vehicle and remotely manage it.
Owners of cars will often see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser gone haywire. It can happen for many reasons, but the most common one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. This issue can be resolved by a simple replacement.
If this doesn't work the transponder chip could be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is more complicated to fix and diagnose, as it can involve an expert car locksmith or dealership. A car's immobiliser can be damaged if water is able to enter the system, or if it is physically removed from its fob or key. If any of these problems occur it's a good idea visit a local garage or car dealer for assistance.