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

Most cars are equipped with an immobilizer that prevents car theft. If your vehicle will not start after inserting the key fob it could be a problem with a transponder which isn't sending a security signal to the immobilizer.

This is a simple fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's look at the various parts of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to get it fixed.

Battery

It is important that you focus on the profit and cost-saving opportunities that your auto Repair key fob shop. You can do this by offering key fob replacements and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers but will also increase the profits of your shop without subletting 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. The immobiliser is powered through the transponder that is located in the key, fob or instrument cluster. This chip sends a passcode to the immobilizer unit of the car which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM, the instrument cluster smart junction box, or standalone module. The system will check the code to make sure that it is correct. If the code is incorrect the system will disable components that are essential to the start of the car, like the starter motor or ignition. This will make the vehicle almost impossible to start if you don't have the right key.

Since its inception the immobiliser has proven to be an extremely effective tool in reducing car theft. Despite this, thieves are always looking for new ways to bypass these security measures. One of these is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok that shows how simple it is to wire an vehicle.

The majority of insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser in calculating rates, which makes it more attractive to shop for a car that already has this feature. Even cars that are factory fitted with an immobiliser might have problems. These problems are often easy and affordable to fix. The majority of the time the issue is caused by a dead or dying key fob battery. A quick diagnostic test will reveal this issue. If the problem persists then it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's recommended to consult a professional for a diagnosis and fix the problem.

Transponder Chip

A small electronic chip, also known as transponder, is embedded into the head portion of your car keys. This technology was first introduced in cars manufactured after 1995. Also known as a 'chip key' or a 'transmitter and responder key, it's created to stop the engine from starting if someone else has a copy of your car key. It works by transmitting the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system inside your car. If the code stored in the car's computer is in line with the signal transmitted by the key, it will deactivate the immobiliser and allow the engine to start.

The key that is equipped with a transponder chip is often referred to as"fob" or a "smart" key because it is more difficult to copy than a conventional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a standard key but not a transponder one. Contrary to the central locking element remote of a conventional key which uses battery power the transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted by the antenna ring that is located on the ignition cylinder.

To turn on the transponder, the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst IR energy which is picked up by a microchip in the key. The chip responds with an unique code to the immobiliser of your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory to the one from the transponder chip and when they match, the engine will start.

If the immobiliser detects an unauthorized transponder or key is being used it will shut down the engine and stop the essential components from functioning. Without a functioning engine the vehicle will not be able to move and it could be easy for a criminal to wire the vehicle and then drive off. This is an effective deterrent to crime, and is the reason why you should get your car's key-immobiliser fixed as soon as you can when it has a problem. If you don't do this, the security light in your car will continue to flash and it will be impossible to start your engine.

Security Light

The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that sends an electric signal to the transponder chip within your key. This device is designed to prevent anyone from starting their car without the proper keys. If the system is unable to detect a digital serial number from the chip on your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to stop the car from starting.

The car immobiliser system is an effective in stopping thieves, however it can become out of in sync with the key or the transponder chip. This can be due to interference or the system is too sensitive. If this is the situation, it may need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, you can reinstall the battery and restart the car. This will reset the key system, so that it is ready to accept keys once more.

The security light is a way of warning you of a problem. If you attempt to start your car and Download free the light is solid on it means that the chip in your key isn't compatible with the code that is stored in the ECU. This can happen if you have recently replaced your car's key with a different one that has not been 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 transponder or key chip properly programmed to your vehicle. It's possible that the system isn't able to accept the key due to a software upgrade or bug. To test, put your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Do not attempt to start the car. Keep the key in this position for ten minutes. The security light should come on, and then go off. If it does not you'll need to repeat this procedure and wait another 10 minutes. This should resolve the issue when you repeat the process three times.

Programming

The car immobiliser prevents the engine from running if a key or fob is not programmed correctly. It uses a special RFID micro-chip that can't be duplicated and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will stop working when it is unable to recognize the code. It's hard to beat.

Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it difficult to hot-wire a car or use 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 there hasn't been a compromise in the code. The system won't allow the car to start if the does not receive the correct code. Some models will even inform the owner in the event that someone attempts to use an incorrect key or fob.

However it isn't completely secure. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser by using techniques like 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wires through the wiring of a vehicle to trick the ECU to believe that the proper key or fob is being used. But, this technique is quite risky and requires a great deal of knowledge of how to carry out the procedure without cutting yourself. Modern car remote key fob repair thieves are also using more advanced methods, for instance, Bluetooth or specialised apps to steal a car's information and remotely control it.

Car owners often be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser that has gone out of control. This could be due to various reasons, but the most common one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. This issue can be resolved by an easy replacement.

If this isn't working the transponder chip could be faulty or mismatched with the ECU. This is more difficult to diagnose and fix, as it can involve an expert locksmith for cars or a dealership. However, a car's immobiliser can also be damaged due to water intrusion, or even being removed from the fob or key. If you encounter any of these problems it is a great idea to consult the local car dealer or garage to seek help.