Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer in order to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle will not start after inserting your key fob, it could be an issue with a transponder that isn't sending a security message to the immobilizer.
This is a straightforward fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's take a look at the different parts of your vehicle immobiliser to see what you can do.
Battery
It is essential to focus on the cost-savings and revenue opportunities that your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to offer 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 to sublet to the dealership.
Typically the key fob battery powers the remote opening and locking systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the key fob battery. The immobiliser is powered through the transponder in the key, fob or instrument cluster. This chip sends a passcode to the car's immobilizer device which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM or instrument cluster smart junction box or standalone module. The system checks the code to make sure it is correct. If it's not then the system will disable parts that are essential to start the vehicle, such as the ignition or starter motor. This makes the car almost impossible to start if you don't have the right key.
Since its introduction, the immobiliser has been an extremely effective tool in reducing car theft. Despite this the fact that thieves are always looking for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these methods is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it can be to hot-wire an automobile.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser when they calculate premiums, making it more appealing to shop for cars that already have this feature. Even vehicles that are factory-fitted with an immobiliser may have problems. Fortunately, these issues are usually straightforward and affordable to fix. Most times the issue is the result of an inactive or dead key fob battery. This can be confirmed with an easy diagnostic test. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. It is best to have a professional identify the issue and then solve it.
Transponder Chip
In vehicles manufactured after 1995, a tiny electronic chip, referred to as transponder is integrated into the head of your car key. Also referred to as a 'chip key' or a 'transmitter and responder key, it's designed to prevent the engine from starting if another person has an exact copy of your car key. It works by transmitting radio signals from the key to the immobiliser system. If the code stored in the computer of the car matches the signal transmitted by the key the immobiliser will then be removed and the engine will begin to run.
The key that has a transponder is also referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, because it is more difficult to copy than mechanical keys. Using special techniques, it is feasible to copy a standard car key but not the transponder key. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal not battery power.
To activate the transponder chip, the ignition cylinder has to be turned on. The ring emits IR energy which is detected by a microchip within the key. The chip responds with a unique code to the immobiliser of your car. The car's computer checks the code in its memory with that from the transponder chip, and when they match the engine will begin to rev.
The immobiliser will shut down the engine in the event of an unauthorized key or transponder. It will also prevent any vital components of the car from functioning. The car won't move if the engine is not working. It is easy for criminals to wire it to drive away. This is a powerful deterrent to crime and it is one of the main reasons why it's essential to have your car's key immobiliser repaired as soon as you notice a fault with it. If you don't do this, the security light in your vehicle will continue to flash and it will be inaccessible to start your engine.
key fob repair utilizes a small battery to transmit an electrical signal to the chip inside your key. This is an anti theft device that stops anyone from opening your vehicle without the right key. If the system cannot detect a digital serial from the chip on your key, it will shut off the engine immobiliser to stop the car from starting.
The car immobiliser system is an effective in stopping thieves but sometimes it can be out of connection with the key or the transponder chip. This could be due interference or the system is too sensitive. If this is the case it could be necessary to reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, you can reinstall the battery and restart the car. 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 a problem with the system. If you try to start your car and the light stays on, it indicates that the chip inside your key isn't compatible with the code that is stored in the ECU. This could happen if your car key has been replaced with a new one that is not programmed for the vehicle, or if the ECU was not swapped correctly.
If this is the situation it is recommended to take your transponder or key chip to a professional to have them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key because of an issue with the software or an update. To test this, insert your key in the ignition and then turn it to the ON position. Don't try to start the car. Let the key stay in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should turn on, then go off. If it doesn't you'll need to repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Repeat the process three times and the problem will be resolved.
Programming
A car immobiliser stops a car's engine from running without a properly programmed key or fob. It makes use of a unique RFID micro-chip that can't be copied and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will be disconnected when it doesn't recognize the code. That's why it's difficult to beat.
Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it really hard to wire the car hot or use a different key for starter. The system works by analyzing the chip inside the key fob or 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 a compromise in the code. The system won't allow the car to start in the event that it does not receive the correct code. Some models even inform the owner when they attempt to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system isn't completely impervious to attack, but it is. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser using methods such as 'hot-wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wiring in a vehicle in order to fool the ECU. But, this technique is extremely dangerous and requires a lot of experience to carry out the procedure without damaging yourself. Modern car thieves are also employing more sophisticated methods, such as Bluetooth or specialised apps to obtain information about a vehicle and remotely control it remotely.
Car owners will frequently be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser malfunctioning. This could be due to a variety of reasons however the most common reason is a defective battery in the keyfob. The issue can be solved by replacing the battery.
If this doesn't work, the transponder chip might be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is harder to determine and fix since it could require an expert locksmith or a dealership. A car immobiliser may also be damaged if water is able to get into the system, or if it is physically removed from its fob or key. If you encounter any of these issues, it is a good idea to consult an auto dealer in your area or garage to seek help.