Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
The majority of vehicles have an immobilizer that prevents car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting your key fob it could be a problem with a transponder that isn't sending a security message to the immobiliser.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's look at the various parts of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
If you're involved in the auto repair industry, it is important to focus on your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. You can accomplish this by providing key fob replacements and reprogramming for your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but it will also boost the profits of your shop 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. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip in the key or fob. This chip sends a passcode to the immobilizer unit of the car which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM, instrument cluster smart junction box, or standalone module. The system then validates the code to make sure it is correct. If it is not then the system will disable components crucial to starting the vehicle, like the starter motor or ignition. The car will be impossible to start if the driver doesn't have the right key.
The immobiliser system has proven extremely effective in decreasing car theft since it was first introduced. Despite this it is not uncommon for thieves to look for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these techniques is an upcoming trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that demonstrated how easy it is to connect a vehicle with hot wires.
The majority of insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser in calculating rates, which makes it more appealing to shop for an automobile that has this feature. Even cars that are factory fitted with an immobiliser may have problems. Fortunately, these issues are usually straightforward and affordable to solve. A dying or dead keyfob battery is usually the cause of a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be confirmed with an instant diagnostic test. If the problem persists and continues to recur, there could be other causes for the vehicle's misbehaviour, including electrical problems or a wiring issue. If this is the case, it's recommended to consult a professional for a diagnosis and repair the issue.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, also known as a transponder, is built into the head portion of your car keys. The technology was introduced in cars made after 1995. It is also known as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its function is to stop your engine from starting if another person has a duplicate of your key. It functions by sending a radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system of your car. If the code in the car's computer is in line with the signal from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.
The key that is equipped with a transponder chip can be referred to as a 'fob' or a 'smart' key because it is more difficult to duplicate than a conventional mechanical key. Using specific techniques, it is possible to duplicate a standard car key however, not the transponder key. Contrary to the remote central locking element of a conventional key, which is powered by batteries, a transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted through the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To turn on the transponder, the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst IR energy which is picked up by a microchip inside the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code the immobiliser of your car. The computer in the car compares the code stored in its memory with the transponder's and when the two codes match it will start the engine.
If the immobiliser detects an unauthorised transponder or key is in use it will shut down the engine and prevent any of its essential components from functioning. The car won't move in the event that the engine is not functioning. It's easy for a criminal to hot-wire it and drive off. This is a powerful way to deter crime, and is one of the main reasons why it's essential to have your car's key immobiliser repaired as soon as you notice any issue with it. If you don't do this and the security light on your car will continue blinking, and you won't be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser utilizes a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip inside your key. This anti-theft device prevents anyone from starting the car if they don't have the correct keys. 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, which will stop the car starting.
The car immobiliser is a fantastic way to deter thieves, but it could sometimes get out of in sync. This could be due to interference or an immobiliser that is too sensitive. If this is the situation, it may need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. It should be left disconnected for around 15 minutes then reinsert it and start the car. This will reset the system and allow it to accept your key again.
The security light is a way of alerting you to a problem. If the light is illuminated and you try to start your car, it means that the code stored in the ECU does not match the chip on the key. This could happen if you have recently replaced your car's key with another that has not been programmed to the vehicle, or if you've had a bad swapped ECU.
If this is the case then it's time to go to a professional and have g28carkeys the the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. It's possible that the system won't accept the key due to a software update or bug. To test, insert your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Do not try to start the vehicle. The key should remain in this position for ten minutes. This should cause the security light to turn on and to turn off. If it doesn't you'll need to repeat the procedure and wait for another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times, and the issue should be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser stops the engine from running when the fob or key are not properly programmed. It is a unique RFID chip that cannot be copied and is equipped with a digital serial number. The immobiliser will stop working when it doesn't recognize the code. It's hard to beat.
Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to hot-wire the car or use another 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 right key and that the code hasn't been compromised. The system will not allow the car to start if it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models will even notify the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an unapproved fob or key.
However the system isn't completely secure. Some thieves have gotten around the immobiliser with techniques such as 'hot wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wire in a vehicle in order to trick the ECU. This is a risky method and requires extensive experience to avoid electrocuting oneself. Modern car thieves are employing more sophisticated methods, like Bluetooth or other specialized apps to take over a car's data and remotely manage it.
Car owners will frequently see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser that has gone out of control. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but the most frequent causes is due to a damaged or dead battery on the key fob. A simple repair should resolve this problem.
If this doesn't work it could be because the transponder chip may be defective or the ECU is not matched. It is more difficult to diagnose and fix because it requires a specialist car locksmith or 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 you encounter any of these problems it is a good idea that you visit an auto dealer in your area or garage for assistance.