Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming – Why Your Car Won’t Start
Today, the majority of vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer to stop car theft. If your vehicle isn’t starting after inserting the key fob there could be an issue with the transponder chip not transmitting a security code to the immobilizer system.
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 fix it.
Battery
It is essential to focus on the profit and cost-saving opportunities that your auto repair shop. One method to achieve this is to provide key fob replacement and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but also increase your shop’s profits, without having sublet the dealership.
Typically, the key fob battery powers the remote control car key repairs locking and opening systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the key fob battery. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip that is located in the key or fob. This chip transmits a passcode from the key or fob to the immobilizer module of the car. It can be integrated into the PCM (power control module) or BCM (brake control module) instrument clusters smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system then validates the code to ensure that it is correct. If it’s not, the system will disable parts that are essential to start the vehicle, like the starter motor or ignition. This will make the vehicle almost impossible to start without the correct key.
Since its inception the immobiliser has proved to be a very effective tool in reducing the theft of cars. Despite this, thieves are always looking for new ways to get around these security measures. One of these methods is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it is to wire an automobile.
Most insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser when they calculate rates, which makes it more appealing to purchase an automobile that has this feature. However, even cars that were factory-fitted with an immobiliser can experience problems with it. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple and inexpensive to solve. The majority times the issue is caused by the dying or dead key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test will reveal this issue. If the issue continues, it could be due to electrical issues or wiring issues. If this is the case, it’s recommended to seek out a professional to diagnose and repair the problem.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, called transponder, is incorporated into the head portion of your car keys. This technology was introduced in cars made after 1995. Also referred to as a ‘chip key or a ‘transmitter & responder key, it’s designed to prevent the engine from starting if someone else has an exact copy of your car key. It works by sending a radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system of your car. If the code in the car’s computer matches the signal sent from the key, it will deactivate the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key that has the transponder chip can be referred to as a ‘fob’ or a ‘smart’ key because it is more difficult to clone than a conventional mechanical key. Using special techniques, it is feasible to copy a conventional 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 must be turned to the ON position. The ring emits a blast of IR energy which is absorbed by the microchip inside the key. The chip responds by sending a unique code your car’s immobiliser. The computer in the car examines the code in its memory to 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 unauthorised transponder or key. It also blocks any essential parts of the car from working. Without a functioning engine, the car will not be able to move, and it would be very easy for criminals to connect the vehicle to a hot wire and then drive away. This is an effective deterrent to crime, and is the reason why you should get your car’s key-immobiliser repaired promptly in the event of a malfunction. If you do not take action then the security light on your car will continue flashing and you will not be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to transmit an electrical signal to the chip in your key. This is an anti-theft device that blocks anyone from starting your car without the proper key. If the system is unable to detect a digital serial from the chip in your key, it will shut off the engine immobiliser, which will stop the car starting.
This car immobiliser system is an effective way to stop thieves, but it is also possible for it to become out of in sync with the key or the transponder chip. This can be due to interference or a system that is too sensitive. If this is the situation, it may need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. Leave it disconnected for about 15 minutes before reinstalling it and begin the vehicle. This will reset the key system, so that it is ready to accept your keys again.
The security light is an immobiliser’s method of warning you of a problem. If you attempt to start the car but the light is solid on it indicates that the chip inside your key isn’t compatible with the code that is stored in the ECU. This can happen if your car key has been replaced by a new key that’s not compatible with the vehicle, or if the ECU has been swapped incorrectly.
If this is the case you should bring your transponder key or chip to a professional for 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, put your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Do not try to start the vehicle. Keep the key in this position for ten minutes. The security light should turn on, and then go off. If it doesn’t you’ll need to repeat this procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times and the problem should be solved.
Programming
A car immobiliser prevents the engine of a car from running without a key that is programmed correctly or fob. It uses a special RFID micro-chip that can’t be duplicated and comes with its own digital serial number. The immobiliser will disengage if it doesn’t recognise the code. It’s tough to beat.
Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it very difficult to hot-wire the car or use a different key as a starter. The system works by checking the chip inside the key fob or key and sending a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is then able to determine that it’s the correct key and that the code isn’t compromised. The system won’t allow the car to start if the doesn’t have the correct code. Some models will even inform the owner if someone tries to use an incorrect key fob repair near me or fob.
However the system isn’t impervious to theft. Some thieves have been able to get around the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves crossing the wrong wires in a vehicle’s wiring to fool the ECU to believe that the correct key or fob is being used. This is a risky method and requires extensive experience to avoid electrocuting oneself. Modern car thieves are using more advanced methods, for instance, Bluetooth or other specialized apps to steal a car’s information and remotely control it remotely.
Car owners will frequently be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser gone haywire. This can happen for various reasons, but one of the most common is due to a damaged or dead battery on the key fob. A simple replacement should fix this problem.
If this isn’t working the transponder chip could be defective or mismatched with the ECU. This is more difficult to determine and fix and may require an expert car locksmith or dealership. However, a car’s immobiliser may also be damaged due to water ingress or even physically being pulled away from the fob or key. If any of these issues occur it’s a good idea to visit a local garage or car dealer for assistance.
