10 Healthy Car Key Immobiliser Repair Habits
Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Nowadays, all vehicles are equipped with an engine immobilizer to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle isn't starting after inserting the key fob, there may be a problem with a transponder chip that is not transmitting 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 essential to focus on the profit and cost-saving opportunities of your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but will also boost your shop's profit without the need to sublet to the dealership.
Typically the key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the key fob battery. The immobiliser is powered through the transponder located in the key, fob or instrument cluster. The chip transmits a passcode from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit of the car, which can be integrated into the PCM (power control module), BCM (brake control module for brake control), instrument clusters smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system checks the code to make sure it's correct. If it is not it is, the system will shut down elements that are crucial to the start of the vehicle, such as the ignition or starter motor. The car will be nearly impossible to start if you don't have the correct key.
Since its introduction the immobiliser has proven to be an extremely effective tool for decreasing car theft. However it is not uncommon for thieves to look for new ways to get around these security measures. One of these methods is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok, which shows how easy it is to wire an automobile.
Insurance companies are now taking the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums. This makes it more attractive to buy a car with this feature. Even cars that are factory-fitted with an immobiliser might be prone to problems. Fortunately, these problems are usually straightforward and affordable to solve. The majority times, a faulty immobiliser is the result of a dead or dying key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test could uncover the problem. If the issue persists, then there might be other reasons for the car's behavior, such as electrical problems or a wiring issue. If this is the case, it's recommended to consult a professional for a diagnosis and fix the issue.
Transponder Chip
In cars manufactured after 1995, a small electronic chip, referred to as transponder is embedded in the head of your car key. Also known as a chip key' or a 'transmitter and responder key, it is created to stop the engine from starting if someone else has the same key. It works by sending a radio frequency from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code stored in the car's computer is in line with the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will then be deactivated and the engine will start.
The key that has a transponder is also called a "fob" or a "smart" key, because it is more difficult to copy than mechanical keys. It is possible to duplicate a traditional key, but not a transponder one. In contrast to the remote central locking element of a standard key which uses battery power, 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 needs to be turned on. The ring emits a blast of IR energy that is absorbed by the microchip inside the key. The chip responds by transmitting a unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The car's computer compared the code in its memory with the one from the transponder chip and if they match the engine will be able to start.
If the immobiliser detects that an unauthorised transponder or key is in use it will shut down the engine and stop any of its vital components from working. Without a functioning engine, the vehicle will not be able to move and it could be easy for criminals to hot-wire the vehicle and drive away. This is a powerful deterrent against crime, and is one of the main reasons why it's essential to have your car's key immobiliser fixed as soon as you notice a fault with it. If you don't do this and the security light on your car will continue blinking, and you won't be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser utilizes 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 cannot detect a serial number digital from the chip in your key it will disengage the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from starting.
This system for car immobilisation is an an effective way to stop thieves, but it is also possible for it to become out of connection with the key or transponder chip. This can be caused by interference or the system being too sensitive. If this is the situation, it could be necessary to reset. To do this, just disconnect the battery. Then leave remote key fob repair off for around 15 minutes before reinstalling it and begin the car. 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's a problem with the system. If the light is illuminated and you attempt to start your car, it is a sign that the code that is stored in the ECU does not match the chip inside the key. This could happen if you have recently replaced the car key with another that was not programmed to your vehicle or if you've had a bad swapped ECU.
If this is the situation you should bring your transponder key or chip to a professional to get them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key because of an update or software issue. To test this, place your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position but don't attempt to start the engine. Let the key remain in this position for ten minutes. This will cause the security light to come on and then to go off. If it doesn't, you'll need to repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times and the issue should be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser prevents the engine from running when the fob or key are not programmed correctly. It uses a special RFID micro-chip that can't be copied and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will disconnect in the event that it is unable to recognize the code. That's why it's so difficult to defeat.
Modern cars are equipped with this security system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to hot-wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system operates by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU is aware that it's the right key and that it doesn't have to been compromised code. The system won't allow the car to start if the doesn't receive the correct code, and some models will even inform the owner if someone tries to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system isn't completely impervious to attack, but it is. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser with techniques such as 'hot wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wire in a vehicle in order to trick the ECU. However, this method is extremely risky and requires a great deal of experience to carry out the procedure without cutting yourself. Modern car thieves are employing more sophisticated methods, such as Bluetooth or other apps that take over a car's data and remotely manage it.
Car owners will often get warning lights that signal that the immobiliser is malfunctioning. It can occur for a variety of reasons, but one of the most frequent causes is a dead or defective battery on the key fob. This problem can be fixed by replacing the battery.
If this isn't working, the transponder chip might be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is more difficult to determine and fix, as it can involve an expert car locksmith or dealership. A car immobiliser may also be damaged if water is able to enter the system or is physically removed from its fob or key. If any of these issues occur it's a good idea visit a local garage or car dealer to seek assistance.