Say "Yes" To These 5 Car Key Immobiliser Repair Tips
Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle isn't starting after inserting the key fob, there could be a problem with a transponder chip that is not transmitting a security code to the immobilizer system.
This is a straightforward fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's take a look at the different components of your car immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
It is important that you concentrate on the cost-savings and revenue opportunities that your auto repair shop. You can accomplish this by offering key fob replacements and reprogramming to your customers. This will not only help your customers but also boost the profits of your business without having to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery is used to power the remote locking and opening systems. However, remote car key repair does not supply power to the immobiliser. The immobiliser is powered by the transponder that is located in the fob, key or instrument cluster. This chip transmits a code to the car's immobilizer device which can be integrated into the PCM, BCM or instrument cluster smart junction box or standalone module. The system examines the code to make sure that it is correct. If it is not then the system will disable elements that are crucial to the start of the vehicle, such as the starter motor or ignition. The car will be nearly impossible to start if the driver doesn't have the correct key.
Since its inception the immobiliser has proved to be a very effective tool in decreasing car theft. Yet thieves are always trying to get around these security measures. One of these methods is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok, which shows how easy it is to connect hot wires to an automobile.
Insurance companies are now incorporating in the use an immobiliser when calculating premiums. This makes it more appealing to purchase a vehicle with this feature. However, even vehicles equipped by the manufacturer with an immobiliser can experience problems with it. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple and inexpensive to fix. A dead or dying keyfob battery is typically the cause of a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. A quick diagnostic test can identify the issue. If the problem persists then it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. It is best to have a professional identify the issue and then fix it.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, referred to as transponder, is embedded into the head portion of your car keys. This technology was first introduced in cars manufactured after 1995. It is also known as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its goal is to stop your engine from starting when you have the same key. It works by transmitting a radio frequency from the key to the immobiliser system. If the code in the car's computer matches the signal sent from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key that is equipped with a transponder chip can be referred to as a 'fob' or a smart key because it is more difficult to clone than a conventional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a traditional key but not a transponder one. In contrast to the remote central locking element of a conventional key that relies on battery power, a transponder chip powered by the infrared (IR) signal that is transmitted through the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder needs to be in the ON position. The ring emits a flash of IR energy that is picked up by the microchip in the key. The chip responds with an individual code to the immobiliser of your car. The car's computer compares the code stored in its memory with the one from the transponder chip and if they match the engine will begin to rev.
The immobiliser will disable the engine in the event of an unauthorized key or transponder. It also stops any vital parts of the car from working. Without a functioning engine the vehicle won't be able to move, and it will be easy for a criminal to connect the vehicle to a hot wire and then drive away. This is a great deterrent to criminals, which is the reason why you should get your car's key-immobiliser fixed as soon as you can in the event of a malfunction. If you don't take this action then the security light on your vehicle will continue flashing and you will not be able to start it.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip in your key. It is an anti-theft device that blocks anyone from opening your vehicle without the proper key. If the system is unable to detect a serial number digital from the chip inside your key it will disengage the engine immobiliser and prevent the car from starting.
This car immobiliser system is effective in stopping thieves but sometimes it can become out of connection with the key or transponder chip. This can be caused by interference or the system becoming too sensitive. This may need the system to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. After 15 minutes, reconnect the battery and restart the car. This will reset the system and allow it to accept your key once more.
The security light is a way of warning you of an issue. If you attempt to start your car and the light stays on, it means that the chip inside your key isn't compatible with the code that is stored in the ECU. This can occur if your car key has been replaced by an alternative key that is not compatible with the vehicle, or if an ECU was swapped in a wrong manner.
If this is the case, it's best to bring your transponder key or chip to a professional to have them properly programmed for your car. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key due to a software bug or 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 need to repeat the process and wait another 10 minutes. This should resolve the issue if you repeat it three times.
Programming
The car immobiliser prevents the engine from running when the fob or key is not properly programmed. It makes use of a unique RFID micro-chip that can't be copied and has its own digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disconnected if it does not recognise the code. That's why it's so difficult to beat.
Modern cars are equipped with this security system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to hot-wire the car or use a different key as a starter. The system works by analyzing the chip in a key fob or key, and sending a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU then knows that it's the correct key and that the passcode hasn't been compromised. The system will not allow the car to start if the doesn't receive the correct code. Some models will even report back to the owner if someone tries to use an incorrect key or fob.
However, the system is not completely secure. 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 into thinking the correct key or fob is being used. But, this technique is extremely risky and requires a great deal of knowledge of how to carry out the procedure without cutting yourself. Plus, a lot of modern car thieves have moved over to more advanced methods such as using specialised apps or Bluetooth to hijack the car's data and then remotely control it from their phone.
Owners of cars will often notice warning lights that signal an immobiliser gone haywire. This can occur for many reasons however the most common one is a malfunctioning battery in the keyfob. This issue can be resolved by replacing the battery.
If this doesn't work, it could be that the transponder chip is faulty or the ECU is mismatched. This is harder to fix and diagnose as it may require a specialist locksmith or dealership. However, a car immobiliser may also be damaged by water intrusion, or even being removed from the fob or key. If you experience any of these problems it is a good idea to consult an auto dealer in your area or garage for assistance.
