Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
The majority of vehicles have an immobilizer to prevent theft. If your vehicle won't start after inserting the key fob, there may be a problem with a transponder chip that is not sending a security code to the immobilizer system.
This is a quick fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's take a look at the different parts of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
It is important that you focus on the revenue and cost-savings potentials of your auto repair shop. You can achieve this by offering key fob replacements and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but it will also increase the profits of your business without having to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the key fob battery. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip in the fob or key. The chip transmits a code from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit in the car, which can 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 then checks the code to make sure it is correct. If the code is not correct, the system disables elements that are crucial to starting the car, like the starter motor or ignition. The car will be impossible to start if the driver doesn't have the correct key.
Since its introduction the immobiliser has proved to be an extremely effective tool for reducing car theft. Despite this the fact that thieves are always looking for new ways to get around these security measures. One of these is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that demonstrates how easy it is to wire an vehicle.
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. Even vehicles that are factory fitted with an immobiliser may have problems. Fortunately, these problems are usually straightforward and affordable to repair. A dying or dead keyfob battery is typically the reason for a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be confirmed with an instant diagnostic test. If the issue persists it could be due to other causes of the car's behavior, such as electrical issues 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 tiny 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 referred to as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it is created to stop the engine from starting if a third party has the same key. It functions by sending the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system inside your car. If the code on the car's computer is in line with the signal sent from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key that has a transponder can also be referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, because it is more difficult to copy than mechanical keys. Using special techniques, it is possible to copy a standard car key, but not transponder keys. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal, not battery power.
To activate the transponder chip, the ignition cylinder has to be turned to the ON position. The ring emits a flash of IR energy which is absorbed by the microchip inside the key. The chip responds with a unique code to the immobiliser inside your car. The car's computer compared the code stored in its memory with the one from the transponder chip and if they match, the engine will start.
The immobiliser shuts down the engine in the event of an unauthorised key or transponder. It also blocks any vital components of the vehicle from working. Without a functioning engine the vehicle will not be able to move, and it would be very easy for a criminal to connect the vehicle to a hot wire and then drive off. This is a powerful way to deter crime, and is one of the reasons why it's essential to have your car's key immobiliser fixed immediately you discover an issue. If you don't fix it, the security light on your car will continue to flash and it will be impossible for you to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser makes use of a tiny battery to transmit an electrical signal to the chip that is in your key. This is an anti-theft device that stops anyone from driving your vehicle without the proper key. 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 system is an effective in stopping thieves, but it is also possible for it to be out of sync with the key or the transponder chip. This could be due interference or the system is too sensitive. If key fob repair near me is the case, it may need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. Then leave it off 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 the vehicle immobiliser's way of telling you that there is an issue with the system. If you attempt to start your car and the light stays on it means that the chip in your key isn't in sync with the code that is stored in the ECU. This can happen in the event that your car's key was replaced with a new one that is not compatible with the vehicle, or if an ECU was swapped in a wrong manner.
If this is the case you should take your transponder or key chip to a professional to have them properly programmed for your car. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key due to an issue with the software or an update. To test this, insert your key into the ignition and turn the ON position. Do not try to start the car. Keep the key in this position for ten minutes. This should cause the security light to turn on and to turn off. If it doesn't then you'll have to repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Do this three times and the issue should be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser blocks the engine from running when a key or fob is not programmed correctly. It uses a special RFID microchip that isn't able to be duplicated and comes with its own serial number. The immobiliser will stop working when it doesn't recognize the code. That's why it's difficult to defeat.
Modern cars are equipped with this security system by default. This makes it extremely difficult to wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system works by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU knows it's the correct key and that there hasn't been a compromise in the code. The system won't allow the car to begin when it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models even inform the owner when they attempt to use an incorrect fob or key.
However it isn't impervious to theft. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves using the wrong wiring in an automobile to trick the ECU. But, this technique is extremely risky and requires a lot of experience to accomplish it without electrocuting yourself. Modern car thieves are also employing more sophisticated methods such as Bluetooth or other apps that steal a car's information and remotely manage it.
Car owners will frequently see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser gone haywire. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but the most frequent is due to a damaged or dead battery in the key fob. The issue can be solved by replacing the battery.
If this doesn't work, the transponder chip might be defective or mismatched with the ECU. It is more difficult to diagnose and fix and may require a specialist car locksmith or dealership. The car immobiliser could also 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 the nearest garage or dealer to seek assistance.