NEWS

Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start

The majority of vehicles have an immobilizer to prevent theft. If your vehicle doesn't start after inserting the key fob there could be a problem with the transponder chip 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's immobiliser and see what you can do.

Battery

It is essential to concentrate on the revenue and cost-savings opportunities that your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to offer key fob replacement and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but also increase your shop's profits without having to sublet to the dealership.

Typically the battery for the key fob powers the remote opening and locking systems. However, it doesn't provide power to the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser relies on the transponder chip located in the key or fob. The chip transmits a code from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit in the car, which can be integrated into the PCM (power control module), BCM (brake control module for brake control), instrument cluster, smart junction boxes, or standalone modules. The system checks the code to ensure that it is correct. If the code isn't correct, the system disables components that are essential to start the car, such as the ignition motor or starter motor. This makes the car almost impossible to start without the correct key.

Since its inception, the immobiliser has been an extremely effective tool in reducing car theft. Yet the thieves are always seeking ways to bypass these security measures. One of these methods is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that demonstrates how easy it is to connect hot wires to an automobile.

The majority of insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser when they calculate premiums, which makes it more attractive to shop for a car that already has this feature. Even vehicles that are factory-fitted with an immobiliser may be prone to problems. Fortunately, these problems are usually easy and cheap to repair. Most times the issue is the result of a dead or dying key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test could 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 fix the issue.

Transponder Chip

In cars manufactured after 1995, a tiny electronic chip referred to a transponder is built into the head of your car key. Also known as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter and responder key, it is designed to prevent the engine from starting if a third party has a copy of your car key. It functions by sending the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system inside your car. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal transmitted by the key, it will deactivate the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.

The key with the transponder can also be referred to as 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 key. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal not battery power.

To activate the transponder chip the ignition cylinder has to be switched to ON. The ring emits IR energy that is received by a microchip within the key. The chip then responds with an unique code to the immobiliser of your car. The car key fob repair service's computer compares the code in its memory to the one from the transponder chip, and when they match the engine will be able to start.

If the immobiliser is able to detect an unauthorised transponder, key or other device is in use, it will disable the engine and prevent the essential components from working. Without a functioning engine the vehicle will not be able to move and it would be very easy for criminals to wire the vehicle and then drive away. This is a powerful deterrent against crime, and is one of the main reasons why it is essential to get your car's key immobiliser fixed when you spot an issue. If you don't do this and the security light on your vehicle will continue blinking, and you won't be able to begin it.

Security Light

The immobiliser is powered by a tiny battery that transmits an electrical signal to the transponder chip inside your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting the car without the correct keys. If the system can't detect a digital serial number from the chip in your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser and prevent the car from starting.

The car immobiliser system is an effective in stopping thieves but sometimes it can get out of sync with the key or the transponder chip. This can be due to interference or the system being too sensitive. This could require the system to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reconnect the battery and restart the vehicle. This will reset the system and make it ready to accept your key again.

The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's method of letting you know that there is an issue with the system. If the light is illuminated and you attempt to start your vehicle, it indicates that the code stored in the ECU is not compatible with the chip inside the key. This could happen if have recently replaced your car key with one that has not been programmed to the vehicle, or in the event that you've had a defective swapped ECU.

If this is the case it is recommended to take your transponder or key chip to a professional to have them correctly programmed for the vehicle you are driving. It's possible that the system will not accept the key because of a software update or bug. To test this, insert your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Do not attempt to start the car. The key should remain in this position for ten minutes. The security light should come on, then turn off. If it doesn't then you'll have to repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. This should solve the problem when you repeat the process three times.

Programming

An immobiliser for cars prevents the car's engine from operating without a correctly programmed key 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 stop working in the event that it is unable to recognize the code. It's difficult to beat.

Modern cars come with this security system in the standard configuration. This makes it difficult to hot-wire a vehicle or use a different key for 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 right key and that the passcode hasn't been compromised. The system won't permit the car key repair service to start if the does not receive the correct code, and some models will even report back to the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an incorrect key or fob.

However, the system is not impervious to theft. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser with techniques such as 'hot-wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wires within a vehicle's wiring to fool the ECU to believe that the correct key or fob is being used. However, this method is extremely risky and requires a lot of experience to carry out the procedure without cutting yourself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have shifted to more sophisticated methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to steal the car's data and then remotely control it using their phone.

Car owners will frequently see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser that has gone out of control. It can occur for Car Key Repair Service a variety of reasons, but the most frequent causes is a dead or defective battery on the key fob. A simple repair should resolve this issue.

If this doesn't work it could be because the transponder chip is defective or the ECU is mismatched. This is harder to determine and fix since it could require a professional locksmith or dealership. However, a car's immobiliser may also be damaged by water intrusion, or even being pulled away from the fob or key. If you experience any of these problems it is a good idea that you visit a local car dealer or garage for assistance.