Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most cars are equipped with an immobilizer system that stops car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob it could be an issue with a transponder which isn't sending a security signal to the immobiliser.
This 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 get it fixed.
Battery
If you're involved in the auto repair industry it is essential to concentrate on your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. You can do this by providing key fob replacements and reprogramming for your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but will also boost your shop's profit without having to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery is used to power the remote locking and opening systems. However, it does not provide power to the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip that is located in the fob or key. The chip transmits a passcode to the immobilizer unit of the car, which may be built into the PCM, BCM or instrument cluster, smart junction box or standalone module. The system will check the code to ensure it is correct. If the code is incorrect, the system disables components that are essential to start the car, like the ignition or starter motor. The car will be impossible to start if you don't have the right 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 bypass these security measures. One of these techniques is a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that demonstrated how easy it is to hot-wire a vehicle.
The majority of insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser in calculating rates, which makes it more appealing to purchase cars that already have this feature. However, even vehicles that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser can experience problems with it. These problems are often easy and cheap to fix. A dead or dying keyfob battery is typically the reason for a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. A quick diagnostic test will identify the issue. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's recommended to consult a professional for a diagnosis and fix the problem.
Transponder Chip
In cars manufactured after 1995, a small electronic chip called transponder is embedded in 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 someone else has an exact copy of your car key. It works by transmitting radio signals from the key to your immobiliser. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will be deactivated and the engine will start.
The key with the transponder is also referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key, because it is more difficult to copy than mechanical keys. It is possible to duplicate a conventional key but not a transponder key. Unlike the central locking element remote of a conventional key, which is powered by batteries, a transponder chip powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted through the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder chip, the ignition cylinder has to be switched to ON. The ring emits a burst of IR energy which is absorbed by the microchip inside the key. The chip responds by transmitting a unique code to the immobiliser of your car. The car's computer compared the code stored in its memory with that from the transponder chip, and if they match, the engine will start.
The immobiliser will shut down the engine if it detects an unauthorised transponder or key. It will also prevent any vital components of the vehicle from functioning. Without a functioning engine, the vehicle won't be able to move, and it would be very easy for a criminal to hot-wire the vehicle and then drive off. This is a powerful deterrent to crime, and is one of the main reasons why it's important to have your car's key immobiliser fixed as soon as you notice a fault with it. If you don't take this action, the security light on your vehicle will continue blinking, and you won't be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a tiny battery that sends an electric signal to the transponder chip inside your key. It is an anti-theft device that prevents anyone from opening your car without the right key. If the system cannot identify a digital serial number from the chip inside your key, it will deactivate the engine immobiliser and stop the car from starting.
This car immobiliser system is effective in stopping thieves, however it can be out of in sync with the key or transponder chip. This can be caused by interference or the system being too sensitive. This could need the system to be reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. Leave it disconnected for about 15 minutes before car key remote repairs reinstalling it and start the vehicle. This will reset the system and allow it to accept the key again.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's method of letting you know 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 inside your key isn't in sync with the code that is stored in the ECU. This could happen if you have recently replaced your car key with a different one that has not been programmed to your vehicle or when you've had a damaged swapped ECU.
If this is the case, then it's time to talk to a professional to 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 because of a software update or glitch. To test this put your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position but don't try to start the engine. Let the key stay in this position for ten minutes. This should cause the security light to come on and then to go off. If it doesn't then you must repeat this procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Do this three times, and the issue will be resolved.
Programming
A car immobiliser prevents a car's engine from running without a correctly programmed key or fob. It is a unique RFID chip that can't be copied and has a digital serial number. The immobiliser will stop working in the event that it doesn't recognize the code. It's hard to beat.
Modern cars are equipped with this security system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to hot-wire a vehicle or use a different key as a starter. The system works by checking the chip in a key fob or key and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is then able to determine that it's the right key and that the code isn't compromised. The system won't allow the car to start if the does not receive the correct code, and some models will even notify the owner if someone tries to use a wrong key or fob.
However, the system is not completely secure. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser by using methods like hot-wiring. This involves crossing the wrong wiring in a vehicle to fool the ECU. This is a risky method and requires a lot of expertise to avoid electrocuting yourself. Modern car thieves are also using more advanced methods, for instance, Bluetooth or other apps that obtain information about a vehicle and remotely manage it.
Car owners often see warning lights that signal that the immobiliser is malfunctioning. This could be due to various reasons however the most common one is a malfunctioning battery in the keyfob. This problem can be fixed by a simple replacement.
If this isn't working the transponder chip could be defective or mismatched with the ECU. This is more difficult to determine and fix since it could require a professional locksmith or dealership. However, a car's immobiliser may also be damaged due to water intrusion or even being removed from the 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 for assistance.