Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
The majority of vehicles have an immobilizer to prevent theft. If your vehicle won't start after inserting the key fob, there could be a problem with the transponder chip not transmitting an authorization code to the immobilizer system.
This is a quick fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's examine the different components of your car immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
If you are working in the field of auto repair, it is important to be aware of your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. 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 also boost the profits of your shop without subletting to the dealership.
The key fob battery is used to power the remote locking and opening systems. The immobiliser is not powered by the battery in the key fob. Instead, the immobiliser depends on the transponder chip located in the key or fob. This chip transmits a passcode from the key or fob to the immobilizer module 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 ensure it's correct. If the code is not correct the system will disable elements that are crucial to start the car, such as the starter motor or ignition. The car will be nearly impossible to start if the driver doesn't have the correct key.
The immobiliser has proven highly effective in decreasing car theft since its introduction. Despite this it is not uncommon for thieves to look for new ways to get around these security measures. One of these techniques is an upcoming trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that showcased how easy it is to wire a vehicle.
Insurance companies are now incorporating the use of an immobiliser to calculate premiums. This makes it more appealing to purchase a car that has this feature. Even vehicles that are factory fitted with an immobiliser may have issues. These problems are often easy and inexpensive to solve. A dying or dead keyfob battery can be the cause of a faulty ignition immobiliser. A quick diagnostic test will identify the 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 have a professional diagnose and fix the issue.
Transponder Chip
A tiny electronic chip, referred to as transponder, is incorporated into the head portion of your car keys. This technology was introduced in cars manufactured after 1995. Also known as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it's designed to prevent the engine from starting if someone else has the same key. It works by sending the radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system of your car. If the code stored in the car's computer is in line with the signal sent by the key, the immobiliser will be removed and the engine will start.
The key with the transponder chip can be referred to as a 'fob' or a smart key because it is more difficult to clone than a traditional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a standard key but not a transponder key. Transponder chips are powered by an infrared signal and not battery power.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder must be in the ON position. The ring emits IR energy which is received by a microchip inside the key. G28 Car Keys sends a unique code to the immobiliser inside your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory to the transponder's and when the two codes match it will begin the engine.
If the immobiliser detects that an unauthorised transponder, key or other device is being used, it will disable the engine and prevent any of its vital components from working. The car won't move when the engine isn't functioning. It's easy for a criminal hot-wire it to drive away. This is a great deterrent to crime, and is why you should have your car key-immobiliser repaired as quickly as possible when it has a problem. If you don't do this, the security light on your car will continue to flash and it will be inaccessible for you to start your engine.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a tiny battery that sends an electric signal to the transponder chip inside your key. This is an anti-theft device that blocks anyone from opening your vehicle without the correct key. If the system is not able to recognize an electronic serial number from the chip on your key, it will shut off the engine immobiliser, which will stop the car starting.
This system for car immobilisation 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 an immobiliser that is too sensitive. This could require an adjustment. 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 a way of warning you of a problem. If you try to start the car but the light stays on, it indicates that the chip in your key isn't in sync with the code that is stored in the ECU. This can happen if your car key has been replaced with a new key that's not compatible with the vehicle, or if an ECU was not swapped correctly.
If this is the situation, it's best to bring your transponder key or chip to a professional to get them properly programmed for your car. It's possible that the system will not accept the key because of a software update or bug. To test this, place your key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position but don't try to start the engine. Let the key stay in this position for 10 minutes. The security light should come on, and then go off. If it doesn't then you'll need to repeat the procedure and wait another 10 minutes. Do this three times and the problem should be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser stops the engine from running when a key or fob is not properly programmed. It uses a special RFID chip that cannot be duplicated and has a unique digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disengaged when it is unable to recognize the code. This is why it's so hard to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it really hard to connect the car to a hot wire or use a different key as a starter. The system works by checking the chip in the key fob or a key and sending a passcode back to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU is aware that it's the right key and that there hasn't been a compromise in the code. The system won't permit the car to start if it doesn't have the correct code, and some models will even notify the owner if someone tries to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system isn't foolproof, however. Some thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser by using methods such as 'hot-wiring'. This involves crossing the wrong wires within a vehicle's wiring to fool the ECU into thinking the appropriate fob or key is being used. However, this method is extremely risky and requires a lot of experience to do it without cutting yourself. In addition, many modern car thieves have shifted over to more advanced methods like using specialized apps or Bluetooth to take over a car's data and remotely control it using their phones.
Car owners will frequently see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser gone haywire. It can happen for many reasons, but the most common one is a faulty battery in the keyfob. A simple replacement should fix this issue.
If this doesn't work, it could be that the transponder chip is faulty or the ECU is mismatched. This is more difficult to fix and diagnose and may require a specialist car locksmith or dealership. However, a car immobiliser can also be damaged due to water ingress or even physically being pulled away from the fob or key. If any of these problems occur it's recommended to visit a local garage or car dealer for assistance.