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 won't start after inserting the key fob there could be a problem with the transponder chip not sending an encryption code to the immobilizer system.
This is a quick fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's examine the different elements of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to get it fixed.
Battery
If you are in the auto repair business it is essential to be aware of your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. One way to do this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only help your customers but will also boost the profits of your business 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 supply power to the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip that is located in the key or fob. The chip transmits a code from the key or fob to the immobilizer unit of the car. It can be integrated into the PCM (power control module) or BCM (brake control module), instrument cluster smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system then verifies the code to ensure that it is correct. If it's not it is, the system will shut down elements that are crucial to the start of the vehicle, like the ignition or starter motor. This will make the vehicle nearly impossible to start without the right key.
The immobiliser has proven highly effective in decreasing car theft since its introduction. Yet, thieves are constantly trying to get around 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.
Insurance companies are now taking in the use an immobiliser to calculate premiums. This makes it more attractive to buy a car with this feature. However, even cars equipped by the manufacturer with an immobiliser could face issues with it. Fortunately, broken car key repair near me are usually easy and cheap to solve. Most of the time an immobiliser that is not working properly is caused by the dying or dead key fob battery. This can be confirmed with an easy diagnostic test. If the problem persists then it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. It's best to let a professional identify the issue and then solve it.
Transponder Chip
In cars manufactured after 1995, a small electronic chip referred to transponder is integrated into the head of your car key. Also referred to as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter and responder' key, it is designed to stop the engine from starting if a third party has an exact copy of your car key. It works by transmitting the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will be disarmed and the engine will begin to run.
The key with the transponder chip is often referred to as a 'fob' or a smart key because it is more difficult to duplicate than a traditional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a conventional key but not a transponder one. 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 that is picked up by a microchip inside the key. The chip responds with an unique code to the immobiliser inside your car. The computer in the car compares the code stored in its memory to the transponder's and if the two codes match, it will start the engine.
If the immobiliser detects that an unauthorised transponder or key is in use it will shut down the engine and block the essential components from functioning. Without a functioning engine the vehicle won't be able to move, and it would be very easy for criminals to wire the vehicle and then drive off. This is a great deterrent to criminals, which is why you should have your car key-immobiliser repaired promptly in the event of a malfunction. If you don't do this and the security light on your car will continue flashing and you will not be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that sends an electrical signal to the transponder chip in your key. This is an anti theft device that prevents anyone from driving your car without the proper key. If the system cannot detect a serial number digital from the chip inside your key, it will deactivate the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from beginning.
The car immobiliser is an excellent method to deter thieves, however it can sometimes get out of sync. This could be due to interference or the system being too sensitive. If this is the case it could be necessary to reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. It should be left disconnected for around 15 minutes, then insert it and start the vehicle. This will reset the key system, so that it is ready to accept keys once more.
The security light is the car immobiliser's way of telling you that there is a problem with the system. If the light is illuminated and you attempt to start your vehicle, it indicates that the code stored in the ECU does not match the chip in the key. This could happen if have recently replaced your car's key with a different one that isn't programmed to the vehicle, or if you've had a bad swapped ECU.
If this is the situation, then it's time to talk to a professional and 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 due to a software update or glitch. To mobile car key repair , insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Do not attempt to start the vehicle. Let the key stay in this position for 10 minutes. This should cause the security light to light up and then to go off. If it doesn't work, you'll have to repeat the process and wait for another 10 minutes. Repeat the process three times and the problem should be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser prevents the engine from running if a key or fob is not properly programmed. It is based on a specific RFID microchip that cannot be duplicated and has its own digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disengaged if it doesn't recognise the code. That's why it's so difficult to defeat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it very difficult to hot-wire a vehicle or utilize a different key for starter. The system works by analyzing the chip inside a key fob or key, and sending a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU will then verify that it's the right key and that the code isn't compromised. The system will not allow the car to start when it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models even inform the owner if they try to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system isn't foolproof, however. Certain thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle to trick the ECU. However, this method is pretty dangerous and requires a lot of experience to carry out the procedure without electrocuting yourself. Additionally, many modern car thieves have shifted over to more advanced methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to take over the car's information and remotely control it using their phone.
Car owners are often faced with warning lights that indicate that the immobiliser is malfunctioning. This could be due to a variety of reasons but the most frequent one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. A simple repair should resolve the issue.
If this doesn't work it could be because the transponder chip is faulty or the ECU is not matched. This is more complicated to determine and fix because it requires a specialist locksmith for cars or a dealership. A car immobiliser may also be damaged if water is able to get into the system or is physically pulled away from its fob or key. If you encounter any of these problems it is a good idea that you visit the local car dealer or garage to seek help.