Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer to stop car theft. If your vehicle isn't starting after inserting the key fob, there could be an issue with the transponder chip not sending an encryption code to the immobilizer system.
This is a quick fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's examine the different elements of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
If you are working in the field of auto repair it is crucial to be aware of your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. One way to do this is to provide 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 sublet the dealership.
Typically, the key fob battery powers the remote opening and locking systems. However, it doesn't power the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip that is located on the fob or key. The chip transmits a passcode from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit of the car, which could be integrated into the PCM (power control module) or BCM (brake control module for brake control), instrument cluster, smart junction boxes, or standalone modules. The system then validates the code to ensure it is correct. If the code is incorrect the system will disable elements that are crucial to the start of the car, such as the ignition or starter motor. The car will be impossible to start if you don't have the right key.
The immobiliser system has proven extremely effective at decreasing car theft since its introduction. Yet, thieves are constantly trying to get around these security measures. One of these is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it is to wire an vehicle.
Insurance companies are now incorporating the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums. This makes it more attractive to purchase a vehicle with this feature. However, even vehicles that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser can experience problems with it. Fortunately, these issues are usually easy and cheap to solve. A dying or dead keyfob battery can be the cause of a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be identified with an instant diagnostic test. If the issue continues to persist and continues to recur, there could be other reasons for the car's behavior, such as electrical issues or a wiring issue. If this is the case, it's best to seek out a professional to diagnose and repair the issue.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, referred to as transponder, is embedded into the head portion of your car keys. This technology was first introduced in cars manufactured after 1995. Also known as a chip key or a 'transmitter and responder key, it is designed 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 of your car. If the code in the car's computer matches that signal transmitted by the key, it will disable the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key that is equipped with a transponder chip is sometimes called 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 conventional key, but not a transponder key. Unlike the remote central locking element of a standard key that relies on battery power, a transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted by the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits IR energy which is received by a microchip within the key. The chip then sends an unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The computer in the car examines the code in its memory to the one on the transponder and If the two codes are identical it will begin the engine.
The immobiliser will disable the engine in the event of an unauthorised key or transponder. It also blocks any essential components of the vehicle from functioning. Without a functioning engine the car will not be able to move, and it could be easy for criminals to connect the vehicle to a hot wire and then drive off. This is a great security measure against crime, and is the reason why you should get your car's key-immobiliser fixed as soon as you can when it has a problem. If you don't do this, the security light in your car will continue to flash and it will be difficult to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a tiny battery that sends an electrical signal to the transponder chip within your key. This anti-theft device stops anyone from starting the car without the correct keys. If the system cannot detect a serial number digital from the chip inside your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser and prevent the car from beginning.
The car immobiliser is a great method to deter thieves, but it could occasionally be out of in sync. This could be due to interference or an immobiliser that is too sensitive. This could need an adjustment. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. It should be left disconnected for around 15 minutes before reinstalling it and start the vehicle. This will reset the system and make it ready to accept your key once more.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's way of telling you that there is a problem with the system. If the light is on when you try to start your car, it is a sign that the code in the ECU is not compatible with the chip inside the key. This could happen if have recently replaced the car key with a different one that was not programmed to the vehicle, or if you've had a bad swapped ECU.
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 issue with the software or an update. To test this, insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Do not try to start the car. key repair service should remain in this position for ten minutes. The security light should come on, and then go off. If it doesn't, you will need to repeat this procedure and wait for another 10 minutes. Do this three times, and the issue will be resolved.
Programming
The car immobiliser blocks the engine from running when a key or fob is not properly programmed. It uses a special RFID chip that is unable to be copied and is equipped with a digital serial number. The immobiliser will stop working if it doesn't recognise the code. It's hard to beat.
Modern cars are fitted with this security system in the standard configuration. This makes it extremely difficult to wire the car hot or use a different key for starter. The system operates by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU will then verify that it's the correct key and that the code isn't compromised. The system will not allow the car to begin when it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models even inform the owner if they attempt to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system isn't completely 100% secure, however. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser by using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wires within the wiring of a vehicle, which fools the ECU into thinking that the proper key or fob is being used. But, this technique is quite dangerous and requires a lot of knowledge of how to carry out the procedure without damaging yourself. Modern car thieves are also employing more sophisticated methods such as Bluetooth or specialised apps to steal a car's information and remotely control it.
Car owners are often faced with warning lights that indicate the immobiliser has gone off the rails. This could be due to a variety of reasons but the most frequent one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. A simple replacement can fix this problem.
If this does not work, it could be that the transponder chip is defective or the ECU is not compatible. It is more difficult to determine and fix, as it can involve a specialist locksmith for cars or a dealership. However, a car's immobiliser may also be damaged due to water intrusion, or even being removed from the fob or key. If any of these issues occur it's a good idea to visit the nearest garage or dealer for assistance.