5 Reasons Car Key Immobiliser Repair Is A Good Thing
5 Reasons Car Key Immobiliser Repair Is A Good Thing
Blog Article
Key Fob Replacement and Reprogramming - Why Your Car Won't Start
Currently, most vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer in order to protect against theft of cars. If your vehicle doesn't 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 quick fix for any auto locksmith in Gold Coast. Let's examine the different components of your car immobiliser and what you can do to fix it.
Battery
It is essential to focus on the profit and cost-saving potentials of your auto repair shop. One way to do this is to provide key fob replacement and reprogramming services to your customers. This will not only benefit your customers, but also increase the profits of your shop without having to sublet to the dealership.
The key fob battery powers the remote locking and opening systems. However, it does not supply power to the immobiliser. Instead, the immobiliser is dependent on the transponder chip that is located on the fob or key. The chip transmits a code from the key or fob to the immobilizer unit in the car, which can be integrated into the PCM (power control module) or BCM (brake control module for brake control) instrument cluster, smart junction boxes, or standalone modules. The system then checks the code to ensure it is correct. If it's not then the system will disable elements that are crucial to the start of the vehicle, such as the starter motor or ignition. This makes the car almost impossible to start without the right key.
The immobiliser has proven extremely effective at reducing car theft since its first introduction. Yet thieves are always looking for ways to circumvent these security measures. One of these techniques is an upcoming trend called the Kia Challenge on TikTok that demonstrated how easy it is to wire a vehicle.
The majority of insurance companies now factor in the use of an immobiliser when calculating premiums, making it more attractive to purchase cars that already have this feature. However, even cars that came factory-fitted with an immobiliser can experience problems with it. These issues are typically simple and affordable to fix. A dying or dead keyfob battery can be the cause of a faulty ignition immobiliser. A quick diagnostic test can identify the issue. If the issue persists, then there might be other causes of the car's misbehaviour, including electrical issues or a wiring problem. If this is the case, it's recommended to consult a professional for a diagnosis and fix the issue.
Transponder Chip
In cars made after 1995, a small electronic chip, referred to as a transponder is built into the head of your car key. Also known as a chip key or a 'transmitter & responder key, it is created to stop the engine from starting if someone else has an exact copy of your car key. It works by sending radio signals from the key to your immobiliser system. If the code stored in the car's computer matches the signal sent by the key the immobiliser will be deactivated and the engine will be able to 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 copy than a conventional mechanical key. With the help of specific methods, it is possible to copy a standard car key, but not transponder keys. Contrary to the central locking element remote of a conventional key that relies on battery power the transponder chip is powered by the infrared (IR) signal transmitted by the antenna ring on the ignition cylinder.
To activate the transponder, the ignition cylinder must be in the ON position. The ring emits a burst IR energy which is received by a microchip within the key. The chip responds by transmitting a how to repair car key fob unique code to your car's immobiliser. The car's computer checks the code stored in its memory with that from the transponder chip, and If they are compatible, the engine will start.
The immobiliser shuts down the engine in the event of an unauthorised key or transponder. It also stops any vital parts of the car from functioning. The car won't move in the event that the engine is not functioning. It's easy for a criminal hot-wire it and drive off. This is a great deterrent to crime, and is why you should have your car key-immobiliser repaired as soon as you can in the event of a malfunction. If you don't do this, the security light on your car will continue flashing and you will not be able to begin it.
Security Light
The immobiliser is powered by a small battery that transmits an electrical signal to the transponder chip inside your key. This anti-theft device prevents anyone from starting the car without the correct keys. If the system cannot detect a serial number digital from the chip inside your key, it will disable the engine immobiliser, preventing the car from starting.
This car immobiliser system is effective in stopping thieves, but it is also possible for it to become out of connection with the key or the transponder chip. This can be due to interference or a system that is too sensitive. If this is the case it may need to be reset. To do this, disconnect the battery. It should be left disconnected for around 15 minutes before reinstalling it and start the vehicle. This will reset the system and make it ready to accept your key again.
The security light is the vehicle immobiliser's method of letting you know that there is an issue with the system. If you attempt to start the car and the light stays on it indicates that the chip in your key doesn't match 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 isn't programmed to the vehicle or if you've had a bad swapped ECU.
If this is the case then it's time to talk to a professional to have the transponder or key chip properly programmed to your vehicle. There is also the possibility that the system is not accepting the key because of a software bug or update. To test this, put 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 ten minutes. The security light should come on, then go off. If it doesn't you'll need to repeat this procedure and wait for another 10 minutes. Do this three times and the issue is likely to be solved.
Programming
A car immobiliser stops a car's engine from running without a properly programmed key or fob. It makes use of a unique RFID micro-chip that can't be copied and has its own serial number. The immobiliser will stop working if it doesn't recognise the code. It's tough to beat.
Modern cars come with this system as standard. This makes it extremely difficult to hot-wire a vehicle or use a different key as a starter. The system works by sending a passcode from the key fob to the ECU. 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 begin in the event that it does not receive the correct code. Some models even inform the owner if they try to use an incorrect fob or key.
The system isn't 100% secure, however. Certain thieves have been able to bypass the immobiliser using methods like hot-wiring. This involves crossing the wrong wires through the wiring of a vehicle, which fools 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 accomplish it without electrocuting yourself. Additionally, many modern car thieves have switched to more sophisticated methods, such as using specialized apps or Bluetooth to hijack a car's data and remotely control it via their phones.
Car owners will often get warning lights that signal that the immobiliser has gone off the rails. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but the most common is a dead or defective battery in the key fob. A simple repair should resolve this issue.
If this isn't working the transponder chip could be defective or not compatible with the ECU. This is harder to diagnose and fix as it could require a specialist locksmith or dealership. The car immobiliser could also be damaged if water is able to get into the system, or if it is physically removed from its fob or key. If you experience any of these problems it is a great idea that you visit an auto dealer in your area or garage for assistance.