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 will not 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 quick 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 achieve this by offering key fob replacements as well as reprogramming your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but also increase your shop's profits without having to sublet to the dealership.
Typically the key fob battery powers the remote opening and locking systems. However, it doesn't power the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser depends on the transponder chip that is located in the key or fob. The chip transmits a code from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit in the car. It can be integrated into the PCM (power control module), BCM (brake control module) instrument cluster smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system then validates the code to ensure it is correct. If it is not then the system will disable components crucial to starting the vehicle, like the starter motor or ignition. This will make the vehicle nearly impossible to start without the correct key.
Since its introduction, the immobiliser has been an extremely effective tool in decreasing car theft. Despite this, thieves are always looking for new ways to get around these security measures. One of these is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok, which shows how easy it is to connect hot wires to an automobile.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser when they calculate rates, which makes it more attractive to buy cars that already have this feature. Even vehicles that are factory fitted with an immobiliser might have problems. Fortunately, these issues are usually easy and cheap to solve. The majority of the time, a faulty immobiliser is caused by the dying or dead key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test could uncover the problem. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. It is best to have a professional determine the issue and fix it.
Transponder Chip
In cars manufactured after 1995, a small electronic chip called transponder is integrated into the head of your car key. Also known as a chip key or a 'transmitter and responder' key, it is designed to prevent the engine from starting if another person has an exact copy of your car key. It functions by sending the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code stored in the car's computer is in line with the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will then be disarmed and the engine will begin to run.
The key with the transponder is also called a "fob" or a "smart" key, as it is more difficult to duplicate than mechanical keys. It is possible to duplicate a standard key but not a transponder key. In contrast to the central locking element remote of a conventional key, that relies on battery power the transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted by the antenna ring that is located on the ignition cylinder.
To turn on the transponder, the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits IR energy that is received by a microchip in the key. The chip then sends an individual code to the immobiliser of your car. The car's computer compares the code stored 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 if it detects an unauthorized key or transponder. It also stops any vital parts of the car from functioning. Without a functioning engine, the vehicle won't be able to move, and it could be easy for a criminal to connect the vehicle to a hot wire and drive away. This is a great deterrent to crime, and is why you must have your car's key-immobiliser fixed as soon as you can when it has a problem. If you don't do this and the security light on your car will continue flashing and you will not be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a tiny battery that transmits an electrical signal to the transponder chip in your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting the car without 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 system is an an effective way to stop thieves, but it is also possible for it to be out of in sync with the key or transponder chip. This can be due to interference or a system that is too sensitive. If this is the case, it could be necessary to reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. Leave it disconnected for about 15 minutes then reinsert it and begin the vehicle. This will reset the system and allow it to accept your 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 try to start your car and the light is solid on it indicates that the chip in your key isn't compatible with the code that is stored in the ECU. This could happen in the event that your car's key was replaced with a new key that's not programmed for the vehicle, or if the ECU was not swapped correctly.
If this is the situation you should bring your transponder key or chip to a professional for them properly programmed for your vehicle. It is possible that the system won't accept the key due to a software update or glitch. To test this put your key in the ignition and switch it to the ON position but don't try to start the engine. Keep the key in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should turn on, then turn off. If it doesn't, you'll have to repeat the procedure and wait 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 programmed correctly. It uses a special RFID chip that is unable to be copied and is equipped with a digital serial number. The immobiliser will stop working in the event that it doesn't recognize the code. That's why it's difficult to defeat.
electronic key repair near me G28 Car Keys are equipped with this security system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to wire the car hot or use another key for starter. The system works by sending a code from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU knows it's the correct key and that it doesn't have to been a compromise in the code. The system won't allow the car to begin if it does not receive the correct code. Certain models will even notify the owner if they attempt to use a wrong fob or key.
The system isn't impervious to attack, but it is. Some thieves have bypassed the immobiliser with techniques such as 'hot wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wires through the wiring of a vehicle to trick the ECU to believe that the appropriate fob or key is being used. However, this method is extremely dangerous and requires a lot of experience in order to carry out the procedure without cutting yourself. Modern car thieves are also using more advanced methods, for instance, Bluetooth or other apps that take over a car's data and remotely manage it.
Car owners will often get warning lights that indicate the immobiliser has gone off the rails. It can happen for many reasons, but the most common one is a malfunctioning battery in the keyfob. A simple repair should resolve this issue.
If this doesn't work the transponder chip could be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is harder to fix and diagnose as it could require a professional locksmith or dealership. However, a car's immobiliser may also be damaged by water ingress or even physically being removed from the fob or key. If any of these issues occur it's a good idea visit an auto garage or a local dealer to seek assistance.