Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
The majority of vehicles have an immobilizer to prevent theft. If repair car key won't start after inserting the key fob, there could be an issue with the transponder chip not sending an authorization 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 car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
If you are working in the field of auto repair, it is important to concentrate on your shop's earnings and cost-saving opportunities. One method to achieve this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but also increase the profits of your shop without the need sublet the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it doesn't power the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip located on the fob or key. The chip transmits a passcode to the car's immobilizer device which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM, instrument cluster, smart junction box or standalone module. The system examines the code to ensure it's correct. If the code isn't correct, the system disables elements that are crucial to the start of the car, such as the ignition motor or starter motor. This makes the car almost impossible to start if you don't have the right key.
The immobiliser system has been extremely effective in cutting down on car theft since its introduction. Yet, thieves are constantly trying to get around these security measures. One of these methods includes a recent trend known as the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showcased how easy it is to hot-wire a vehicle.
The majority of insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser in calculating premiums, which makes it more appealing to purchase an automobile that has this feature. However, even vehicles that were factory-fitted with an immobiliser can experience issues with it. Fortunately, these problems are usually simple and inexpensive to solve. Most of the time the issue is caused by an inactive or dead key fob battery. This can be confirmed with an instant diagnostic test. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. It is best to seek out a professional to determine the issue and fix it.
Transponder Chip
In vehicles manufactured after 1995, a tiny electronic chip referred to transponder is embedded in the head of your car key. Also known as a chip key' or a 'transmitter and responder' key, it is designed to stop the engine from starting if another person has a copy of your car key. It works by sending a radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system inside your car. If the code stored in the computer of the car is in line with the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will then be removed and the engine will start.
The key with the transponder chip is sometimes called"fob" or a 'smart' key due to the fact that it is more difficult to duplicate than a conventional mechanical key. Utilizing special techniques, it is possible 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 on. The ring emits a burst IR energy that is picked up by a microchip within the key. The chip then sends an unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory with that from the transponder chip and If they are compatible, the engine will start.
The immobiliser will disable the engine if it detects an unauthorised transponder or key. It also blocks all vital parts of the car from working. The car won't move in the event that the engine is not functioning. It is easy for a criminal to hot-wire it and drive off. This is a powerful deterrent to crime, and is why you should have your car key-immobiliser repaired promptly when it has a problem. If you don't do this, the security light in your car will keep flashing and it will be impossible to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser utilizes a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip that is in your key. This is an anti theft device that stops anyone from starting your car without the right key. If the system cannot detect a digital serial number from the chip on your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to prevent the car starting.
The car immobiliser system is an an effective way to stop thieves, however it can get out of connection with the key or transponder chip. This could be due to interference or the system being too sensitive. This could need the system to be reset. To do this simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reinstall the battery and restart the car. This will reset the key system, so that it is ready to accept your keys once again.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's method of letting you know that there is a problem with the system. If you try to start the car and the light is solid on it means that the chip inside your key doesn't match the code that is stored in the ECU. This could happen if have recently replaced the car key with another that has not been programmed to the vehicle, or in the event that you've had a defective swapped ECU.
If this is the situation, it's best to take your key or transponder chip to a professional for them properly programmed for your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key due to an issue with the software or an update. To test, put your key in the ignition and turn the ON position. Don't try to start the car. Let the key remain in this position for 10 minutes. This should cause the security lights to turn on and to go off. If it doesn't work, you'll have to repeat the process and wait another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times and the issue should be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser blocks the engine from running when the fob or key is not programmed correctly. It makes use of a unique RFID microchip that isn't able to be copied and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will be disengaged if it doesn't recognise the code. That's why it's so difficult to beat.
Modern cars are fitted with this security system as standard. This makes it difficult to hot-wire a vehicle or utilize a different key for starter. The system works by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. The ECU knows it's the correct key and that it doesn't have to be compromised code. The system won't permit the car to start if it does not receive the correct code, and some models will even inform the owner if someone tries to use an unapproved fob or key.
The system is not 100% secure, however. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser by using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle to trick the ECU. However, this is quite risky and requires a great deal of knowledge of how to carry out the procedure without electrocuting yourself. In addition, many modern car thieves have shifted over to more advanced methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to hijack the car's data and then remotely control it from their phones.
Car owners are often faced with warning lights that indicate that the immobiliser is malfunctioning. It can happen for a variety of reasons but the most frequent reason is a defective battery in the keyfob. A simple replacement can fix the issue.
If this does not work, it could be that the transponder chip is faulty or the ECU is mismatched. This is more difficult to fix and diagnose because it requires an expert locksmith for cars or a dealership. A car's immobiliser can be damaged if water is able to enter the system or is physically removed from its fob or key. If you experience any of these issues, it is a good idea to visit a local car dealer or garage to seek help.