15 Amazing Facts About Car Key Immobiliser Repair You've Never Heard Of
Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most vehicles are equipped with an immobilizer that prevents car theft. If your vehicle won't start after inserting the key fob it could be due to a problem with a transponder that isn't sending a security signal to the immobiliser.
This is a simple fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's look at the various components of your car immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
If you're working in the field of auto repair it is crucial 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 boost the profits of your shop without subletting to 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 code from the fob or key to the immobilizer unit in the car, which could be integrated into the PCM (power control module), BCM (brake control module) instrument clusters smart junction boxes or standalone modules. The system will check the code to ensure it's correct. If it's not, the system will disable elements that are crucial to the start of the vehicle, such as the ignition or starter motor. key fob repairs near me will be nearly impossible to start if the driver doesn't have the correct key.
Since its inception the immobiliser has proven to be an extremely effective tool for decreasing car theft. Despite this it is not uncommon for thieves to look for new ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these strategies is the Kia Challenge trend on TikTok, which shows how easy it can be to hot-wire an automobile.
Most insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser when they calculate premiums, which makes it even more appealing to purchase an automobile that has this feature. However, even vehicles that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser can experience issues with it. These issues are usually simple and cheap to fix. A dying or dead keyfob battery can be the cause of a malfunctioning ignition immobiliser. This can be identified with a quick diagnostic test. If the problem persists then it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's best to have a professional diagnose and fix the issue.
Transponder Chip
A small electronic chip, called a transponder, is built inside the head portion of your car keys. This technology was first introduced in cars made after 1995. It is also known as a "chip key" or a "transmitter-responder" key. Its purpose is to stop your engine from starting if you have an identical key. It functions by sending a radio frequency signal from the key to the immobiliser system in your car. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal from the key, it will disarm the immobiliser and allow the engine to begin.
The key that has a transponder is also referred to as a "fob" or a "smart" key due to the fact that it is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a standard key but not a transponder key. Unlike the central locking element remote of a conventional key which uses 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 has to be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst IR energy that is received by a microchip inside the key. The chip responds by transmitting a unique code to your car's immobiliser. The computer in the car compares the code stored in its memory with the transponder's code and If the two codes are identical, it will start the engine.
If the immobiliser detects an unauthorised transponder or key is in use it will shut down the engine and stop any of its 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 hot-wire the vehicle and then drive away. This is an effective security measure against crime, and is why you must have your car key-immobiliser repaired promptly when it has a problem. If you don't do this, the security light on your car will continue blinking, and you won't be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that sends an electric signal to the transponder chip in your key. This is an anti theft device that blocks anyone from opening your car without the right key. If the system cannot detect a digital serial from the chip on your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser to prevent the car from starting.
The car immobiliser is a great method of deterring thieves, however it can sometimes be out of in sync. This can be caused by interference or the system being too sensitive. This may require the system to be reset. To do this, just disconnect the battery. Then leave it off for around 15 minutes before reinstalling it and begin the vehicle. This will reset the system and make it ready to accept the key again.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's way of telling you that there is a problem with the system. If the light is on when you try to start your car, it means that the code stored in the ECU is not compatible with the chip inside the key. This could happen if you have recently replaced the car key with a different one that has not been programmed to the vehicle or when you've had a damaged swapped ECU.
If this is the situation, then you need to go to a professional to have the key or the transponder chip properly programmed to your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key because of an update or software issue. To test this put your key in the ignition and turn it to ON but don't try to start the engine. The key should remain in this position for ten minutes. The security light should come on, then go off. If it doesn't 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 blocks the engine from running if a key or fob is not properly programmed. It utilizes a specific RFID chip that is unable to be duplicated and has a unique digital serial number. The immobiliser will be disengaged if it doesn't recognise the code. That's why it's difficult to beat.
Modern cars have this system as standard. This makes it very difficult to wire a car or use a different key for starter. The system works by analyzing the chip inside a key fob or a key and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU recognizes that it is the correct key and that there hasn't been compromised code. The system won't permit the vehicle to start if it doesn't receive the correct code. Some models will even notify the owner if a person tries to use an incorrect key or fob.
The system isn't completely impervious to attack, but it is. Certain thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using techniques like 'hot-wiring'. This involves using the wrong wiring in a vehicle to fool the ECU. But, this technique is pretty risky and requires a lot of experience in order to do it without damaging yourself. Modern car thieves are employing more sophisticated methods like Bluetooth or other apps that take over a car's data and remotely control it remotely.
Car owners will frequently be greeted by warning lights that indicate an immobiliser that has gone out of control. It can happen for various reasons, but the most common one is a malfunctioning battery in the keyfob. This problem can be fixed by an easy replacement.
If this doesn't work, the transponder chip might be defective or mismatched with the ECU. This is more difficult to diagnose and fix and may require an expert locksmith for cars or a 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 you experience any of these problems, it is a good idea that you visit an auto dealer in your area or garage for assistance.