It's The Perfect Time To Broaden Your Car Key Immobiliser Repair Options
It's The Perfect Time To Broaden Your Car Key Immobiliser Repair Options
Blog Article
Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Most vehicles are equipped with an immobilizer system that stops car theft. If your vehicle won't start after inserting the key fob there could be an issue with a transponder chip that is not sending a security code to the immobilizer system.
This is a quick fix that any auto locksmith on the Gold Coast can do. Let's take a look at the different parts of your car's immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
If you are involved in the auto repair industry it is essential to focus on your shop's revenue and cost-saving opportunities. One method to achieve this is to provide key fob replacement and reprogramming services 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 locking and opening systems. The immobiliser isn't powered by the key fob battery. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip on the fob or key. This chip transmits a code to the immobilizer unit of the car 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 it's correct. If it's not, the system will disable components crucial to starting the vehicle, such as the ignition or starter motor. This will make the vehicle almost impossible to start if you don't have the right key.
Since its introduction the immobiliser has proven to be a very effective tool in reducing car theft. However, thieves are always looking for new ways to get around these security measures. One of these methods 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 when they calculate premiums, which makes it more attractive to buy cars that already have this feature. Even vehicles that are factory-fitted with an immobiliser could have issues. Fortunately, these problems are usually easy and cheap to repair. A dead or dying keyfob battery is usually the cause of a faulty ignition immobiliser. This can be identified with an easy diagnostic test. If the issue persists, it could be due to electrical problems or wiring issues. If this is the case, it's recommended to seek out a professional to diagnose and repair the problem.
Transponder Chip
In vehicles manufactured after 1995, a tiny electronic chip, referred to as transponder is integrated into the head of your car key. Also referred to as a 'chip key or a 'transmitter and responder key, it's designed to stop the engine from starting if a third party has a copy of your car 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 transmitted by the key the immobiliser will then be disarmed and the engine will start.
The key with the transponder chip can be referred to as a 'fob' or a "smart" key due to the fact that it is more difficult to duplicate than a conventional mechanical key. It is possible to duplicate a traditional key, but not a transponder key. Unlike the central locking element remote of a standard key which is powered by batteries, a transponder chip powered by the infrared (IR) signal 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 blast of IR energy which is picked up by the microchip in the key. The chip responds with an unique code to the immobiliser in your car. The computer in the car analyzes the code stored in its memory with the one on the transponder and if the two codes match it will begin the engine.
If the immobiliser is able to detect an unauthorised transponder or key is being used it will shut down the engine and block the essential components from functioning. Without a functioning engine the vehicle won't be able to move and it would be very easy for criminals to wire the vehicle and drive away. This is an effective security measure against crime, and is why you must have your car key-immobiliser repaired as soon as you can if it develops a fault. If you don't do this, the security light on your vehicle will continue flashing and you will not be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser uses a small battery to send an electrical signal to the chip in your key. This anti-theft device stops anyone from starting the car if they don't have the proper keys. If the system cannot check here detect an electronic serial number from the chip in your key, it will shut off the engine immobiliser, which will stop the car from starting.
This system for car immobilisation is an an effective way to stop thieves, but it is also possible for it to be out of connection with the key or the transponder chip. This could be due to interference or an immobiliser that is too sensitive. If this is the case it might need to be reset. To do this, simply disconnect the battery. Then leave it off for around 15 minutes then reinsert it and start the car. This will reset the system and make it ready to accept the key again.
The security light is the car immobiliser's method of letting you know that there is an issue with the system. If the light is on and you attempt to start your car, it is a sign that the code stored in the ECU does not match the chip on the key. This could happen if you have recently replaced the car key with a different one that was not 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 bring your transponder key or chip to a professional for them properly programmed for your car. There is also the possibility that the system isn't accepting the key because of an update or software issue. To test, put your key in the ignition and then turn it to the ON position. Don't try to start the car. Keep the key in this position for 10 minutes. The security more info light should website come on, then go off. If it does not, you will need to repeat this process and wait for another 10 minutes. Repeat this three times and the problem is likely to be solved.
Programming
The car immobiliser blocks the engine from running when the fob or key are not programmed correctly. It utilizes a specific RFID chip that cannot be copied and has a digital serial number. The immobiliser will disengage in the event that it doesn't recognize the code. It's difficult to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it very difficult to hot-wire a car or utilize a different key for starter. The system works by checking the chip in the key fob or key and transmitting a passcode to the ECU (electronic control unit). The ECU will then verify that it's the correct key and that the code isn't compromised. The system will not allow the car to start in the event that it does check here not receive the correct code. Certain models will even notify the owner when they attempt to use an incorrect fob or key.
The car key remote repairs system isn't completely 100% secure, however. Some thieves have managed to bypass the immobiliser with techniques like 'hot-wiring.' This involves crossing the wrong wires in the wiring of a vehicle to trick the ECU into thinking the correct key or fob is being used. This is a risky method and requires a lot of expertise to avoid electrocuting 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 often see warning lights that indicate an immobiliser that has gone out of control. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but the most frequent causes is a dead or defective battery in the key fob. This problem can be fixed by a simple replacement.
If this doesn't work, it could be that the transponder chip is defective or the ECU is not matched. This is harder to fix and diagnose as it could require a specialist locksmith or dealership. However, a car immobiliser can 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 a local car dealer or garage for assistance.