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Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't StartCurrently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer in order to prevent car theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob, there could be a problem with a transponder chip that is not sending a security code to the immobiliser system.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's take a look at the different parts of your vehicle immobiliser to see what you can do.
Battery
It is important that you focus on the revenue and cost-savings opportunities that your auto repair shop. You can accomplish this by providing key fob replacements and reprogramming for your customers. This will not only assist your customers but also boost the profits of your business without having to sublet to the dealership.
Typically the battery for the key fob powers the remote opening and locking systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the key fob battery. Instead, the immobiliser depends on the transponder chip that is located in the fob or key. The chip transmits a passcode to the car's immobilizer device, 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's correct. If it is not then the system will disable components crucial to starting the vehicle, like the ignition or starter motor. This will make the car difficult to start without the correct key.
Since its inception, the immobiliser has been a very effective tool in reducing the theft of cars. Despite this it is not uncommon for thieves to look for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these strategies is a recent trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that demonstrated how easy it is to wire a vehicle.
Many insurance companies are now incorporating in the use of an immobiliser when they calculate rates, which makes it more attractive to purchase cars that already have this feature. However, even vehicles that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser could face issues with it. Fortunately, these problems are usually simple and inexpensive to solve. The majority times the issue is caused by an inactive or dead key fob battery. This can be identified with an instant diagnostic test. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. It is best to have a professional determine the issue and solve it.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, referred to as transponder, is incorporated inside the head portion of your car keys. This technology was first introduced in cars made after 1995. It is also referred to a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its function is to prevent your engine from starting when another person has a duplicate of your key. It works by sending the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code on the car's computer matches the signal from the key, it will deactivate 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, as it is more difficult to duplicate than mechanical keys. Using special techniques, it is feasible to copy a standard car key however, not the transponder key. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal not battery power.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder has to be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst IR energy that is received by a microchip within the key. The chip then responds with an unique code to the immobiliser inside your car. The computer in the car analyzes the code stored in its memory with the transponder's code and when the two codes match it will begin the engine.
The immobiliser shuts down the engine when it detects an unauthorized key or transponder. It also stops any vital components of the car from functioning. The car won't move if the engine is not working. It would be easy for criminals to wire it and drive off. This is a great deterrent to crime, and is the reason why you should get your car key-immobiliser repaired as quickly as possible if it develops a fault. If you don't, the security light in your vehicle will continue to flash and it will be inaccessible for you to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to transmit an electrical signal to the chip that is in your key. This is an anti-theft device that blocks anyone from opening your car without the proper key. If the system is unable to detect a digital serial from the chip on your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser, which will stop the car starting.
The car immobiliser is a great way to deter thieves, but it can occasionally be out of sync. This could be due interference or a system that is too sensitive. If this is the case, it might need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, you can reinstall the battery and restart the vehicle. This will reset the key system, so that it is ready to accept your keys once again.
The security light is a way of warning you of the presence of a problem. If the light is on and you attempt to start your car, it means that the code that is stored in the ECU does not match the chip in the key. This can occur if your car key has been replaced by an alternative key that is not programmed to work with the vehicle, or if an ECU was not swapped correctly.
If this is the case you should take your key or transponder chip to a professional to get them properly programmed for your car. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key because of an update or software issue. To test this, put your key in the ignition and switch it to ON but don't attempt to start the engine. The key should remain in this position for 10 minutes. This should cause the security light to come on and then to turn off. If it doesn't, you will need to repeat this procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times and the issue will be resolved.
Programming
An immobiliser for cars prevents the engine of a car from running without a correctly programmed key or fob. It utilizes a specific RFID chip that can't be duplicated and has a unique 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 fitted with this security system by default. This makes it very difficult to wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system works by analyzing the chip in a key fob or key and sending a passcode back to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is aware that it's the right key and hasn't been a compromise in the code. The system won't permit the vehicle to start if it does not receive the correct code, and some models will even notify the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an unapproved fob or key.
However, the system is not completely secure. Some thieves have been able to get around the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves crossing the wrong wire in a vehicle to cause a malfunction in the ECU. This method is risky and requires extensive expertise to avoid electrocuting yourself. Additionally, many modern car thieves have shifted to more sophisticated methods such as using specialised apps or Bluetooth to hijack a car's data and remotely control it using their mobile.
Car owners will frequently be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser malfunctioning. It can happen for many reasons, but the most common one is a malfunctioning battery in the keyfob. A simple replacement should fix this issue.
If this isn't working, the transponder chip might be defective or not compatible with the ECU. It is more difficult to diagnose and fix because it requires a specialist locksmith for cars or a car remote key repair dealership. The car immobiliser could also be damaged if water is able to get into the system, or if it is physically pulled away from its fob or key. If you experience any of these problems it is a great idea that you visit the local car dealer or garage for assistance.