Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle isn't starting after inserting the key fob, there may be a problem with a transponder chip that is not transmitting a security code to the immobilizer system.
This is a simple fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's look at the various components of your car immobiliser and what you can do to get it fixed.
Battery
It is important that you concentrate on the revenue and cost-savings potentials of your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to provide key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only assist your customers but also boost your shop's profits without subletting to the dealership.
Typically the key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it does not provide power to the immobiliser. The immobiliser is powered through the transponder that is located in the key, fob or instrument cluster. The chip transmits a code from the fob or key to the immobilizer module of the car, which could be integrated into the PCM (power control module) BCM (brake control module for brake control), instrument cluster, smart junction boxes, or standalone modules. The system checks the code to ensure that it is correct. If it is not then the system will disable elements that are crucial to the start of the vehicle, like the starter motor or ignition. This will make the car nearly impossible to start if you don't have the right key.
Since its inception, the immobiliser has been a very effective tool in reducing car theft. Despite this the fact that thieves are always looking for new ways to bypass these security measures. One of these strategies is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it is to connect hot wires to an vehicle.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser in calculating premiums, which makes it even more appealing to shop for a car that already has this feature. However, even vehicles that were factory-fitted with an immobiliser could face issues with it. These problems are often easy and affordable to fix. A dying or dead keyfob battery is typically the reason for a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. A quick diagnostic test will uncover the problem. If the issue continues, it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's recommended to have a professional diagnose and fix the issue.
Transponder Chip
In cars made after 1995, a tiny electronic chip called a transponder is built into the head of your car key. Also known as a chip key or a 'transmitter and responder key, it's created to stop the engine from starting if a third party has an exact copy of your car key. It functions by sending a radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system inside your car. If the code in the car's computer matches the signal sent from the key, it will disable the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key with the transponder can also be referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, as it is more difficult to copy than mechanical keys. With the help of specific methods, it is possible to copy a conventional car key, but not the transponder key. Contrary to the remote central locking element of a conventional key, which uses battery power, a transponder chip powered by the infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted through the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder must be in the ON position. The ring emits a flash of IR energy which is absorbed by the microchip inside the key. The chip responds with an unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory to the transponder's code and when the two codes match it will begin the engine.
The immobiliser will shut down the engine in the event of an unauthorised transponder or key. It will also prevent all vital components of the vehicle from functioning. Without a functioning engine, the vehicle will not be able to move, and it will be easy for criminals to hot-wire the vehicle and then drive off. This is a powerful deterrent to criminals and is one of the reasons why it's essential to have your car key immobiliser repaired when you spot an issue. If you don't do this, the security light in your vehicle will continue to flash and it will be inaccessible for you to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip inside your key. It is an anti-theft device that prevents anyone from driving your car without the correct key. If the system is not able to recognize an electronic serial number from the chip on your key, it will shut off the engine immobiliser to prevent the car from starting.
This car immobiliser system is an effective way to stop thieves, however it can get out of connection with the key or the transponder chip. This could be due to interference or the system is too sensitive. This could require a reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, you can 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 the light is illuminated and you try to start your vehicle, it indicates that the code that is stored in the ECU does not match the chip in the key. This could happen in the event that your car's key has been replaced with an alternative key that is not programmed for the vehicle, or when an ECU has been swapped incorrectly.
If this is the case, it's best to take your key or transponder chip to a professional to get them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key due to an update or software issue. To test, insert your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Don't try to start the car. Keep the key in this position for ten minutes. This should cause the security lights to turn on and to go off. If it doesn't you'll need to repeat this process and wait for another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times, and the issue will be resolved.
Programming
A car immobiliser prevents the engine of a car from running without a correctly programmed key or fob. It uses a special RFID microchip that isn't able to be copied and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will disengage in the event that it doesn't recognize the code. It's hard to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it really hard to connect the car to a hot wire or use a different key for starter. The system works by analyzing the chip in the key fob or a key and sending a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU recognizes that it is the correct key and that there hasn't been compromised code. The system will not allow the car to start when it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models even notify the owner if they try to use a wrong fob or key.
The system isn't 100% secure, however. Certain thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves using the wrong wiring in an automobile to cause a malfunction in the ECU. However, this method is pretty risky and requires a lot of experience in order to do it without damaging yourself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have switched to more sophisticated methods such as using specialised apps or Bluetooth to take over a car's data and remotely control it via their phone.
Owners of cars will often see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser malfunctioning. This can occur for many reasons, but the most common one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. A simple replacement can fix this problem.
If this does not work it could be because the transponder chip may be defective or the ECU is not compatible. It is more difficult to determine and fix and may require a specialist locksmith for cars or a dealership. However, repair car key can also be damaged due to water intrusion, or even being removed from the fob or key. If any of these issues occur, it's recommended to visit a local garage or car dealer to seek assistance.