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 won't start after inserting your key fob it could be a problem with a transponder that's not sending a security message to the immobilizer.
repair car key is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's look at the various elements of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
It is crucial to focus on the profit and cost-saving opportunities of your auto repair shop. 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 the profits of your shop without the need sublet the dealership.
Typically the battery for the key fob powers the remote opening and locking systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the battery in the key fob. The immobiliser is powered by a transponder in the fob, key or instrument cluster. This chip sends a passcode to the car's immobilizer unit which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM or instrument cluster smart junction box or standalone module. The system checks the code to ensure it is correct. If it's not it is, the system will shut down parts that are essential to start the vehicle, like the starter motor or ignition. The car will be nearly impossible to start if you do not have the correct key.
The immobiliser system has proven extremely effective in decreasing car theft since its first introduction. However, thieves are always looking for new ways to bypass these security measures. One of these strategies is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that demonstrates how easy it is to connect hot wires to an automobile.
Insurance companies are now factoring in the use an immobiliser in calculating premiums. This makes it more attractive to purchase a vehicle with this feature. However, even cars that were factory-fitted with an immobiliser could face problems with it. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple and inexpensive to fix. Most times, a faulty immobiliser is caused by the dying or dead key fob battery. This can be confirmed with a quick diagnostic test. If the issue continues to persist and continues to recur, there could be other causes for the vehicle's irregular behavior, such as electrical problems or a wiring issue. It is best to have a professional diagnose the problem and solve it.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, referred to as transponder, is incorporated inside the head portion of your car keys. This technology was introduced in vehicles 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 another person has the same key. It works by transmitting an audio signal 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 disarmed and the engine will start.
The key with the transponder chip can be referred to as"fob" or a "smart" key because it is much more difficult to clone than a conventional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a traditional key, but not a transponder one. Unlike the central locking element remote of a conventional key, which uses battery power the 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 switched to ON. The ring emits IR energy that is received by a microchip in the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code your car's immobiliser. The car's computer compared the code stored in its memory with that from the transponder chip and when they match, the engine will start.
The immobiliser shuts down the engine in the event of an unauthorised transponder or key. It also stops any essential parts of the car from functioning. Without a functioning engine the car will not be able to move and it could be easy for a criminal to connect the vehicle to a hot wire and then drive away. This is an effective deterrent to crime, and is why you must have your car's key-immobiliser fixed promptly when it has a problem. If you don't do this then the security light on your car will continue flashing and you will not be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to transmit an electrical signal to the chip in your key. This is an anti theft device that blocks anyone from starting your vehicle without the correct key. If the system can't identify a digital serial number from the chip inside your key it will disengage the engine immobiliser and stop the car from getting started.
This system for car immobilisation is an an effective way to stop thieves, however it can be out of in sync with the key or transponder chip. This can be due to interference or the system is too sensitive. If this is the case, it might need to be reset. To do this, 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 the key again.
The security light is an immobiliser's way of alerting you to a problem. If you attempt to start the car and the light is solid on it means that the chip in your key isn't compatible with the code stored in the ECU. This could happen in the event that your car's key has been replaced by an alternative key that is not programmed for the vehicle, or if the ECU was not swapped correctly.
If this is the situation, then it's time to go to a professional and have the key or the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. It's possible that your system isn't able to accept the key due to a software update or glitch. To test this, insert your key in the ignition and turn the ON position. Don't try to start the vehicle. The key should remain in this position for 10 minutes. This will cause the security light to turn on and to go off. If it doesn't then you must repeat this procedure and wait for another 10 minutes. Repeat the process three times and the problem should be solved.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents the engine of a car from running without a properly programmed key or fob. It is a unique RFID chip that can't be duplicated and has a unique digital serial number. The immobiliser will stop working in the event that it doesn't recognize the code. This is why it's so hard to beat.
Modern cars are fitted with this security system as standard. This makes it difficult to hot-wire a vehicle or use a different key as a starter. The system works by checking the chip in the key fob or a key and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is then able to determine that it's the correct key and that the passcode hasn't been compromised. The system won't permit the car to start if it does not receive the correct code, and some models will even inform the owner if a person tries to use a wrong fob or key.
The system is not foolproof, however. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser using methods such as 'hot-wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wires within the wiring of a vehicle, which fools the ECU into thinking the appropriate fob or key is being used. However, this method is quite dangerous and requires a lot of knowledge of how to do it without electrocuting yourself. In addition, many modern car thieves have shifted to more sophisticated methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to steal the car's information and remotely control it using their phones.
Car owners are often faced with warning lights that indicate the immobiliser has gone haywire. It can occur for a variety of reasons, but one of the most frequent causes is due to a damaged or dead battery in the key fob. This issue can be resolved by an easy replacement.
If this does not work, it could be that the transponder chip is faulty or the ECU is not compatible. It is more difficult to determine and fix because it requires a specialist locksmith for cars or a dealership. The car immobiliser could also be damaged if water manages to enter the system or if it is physically pulled away 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.