What is an immobilizer key fob? How to bind a key fob to an immobilizer

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:42

The immobilizer is one of the most effective anti-theft devices ever invented by automotive engineers. The principle of operation of the device is quite simple. If an attacker tries to set the vehicle in motion, the device blocks the operation of the main components of the machine. Such an effective means of car protection could not be ignored by insurance companies. Some of them agree to conclude a contract for compensation in case of theft only when the vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer.

How does the device work, why do I need an immobilizer key fob?

An outside observer cannot detect the presence of a protective device in the car. It does not emit any sounds or light signals. The operation of the device is absolutely hidden from prying eyes until the protective mechanisms are launched. If the criminal can find and break the device, then even in this case, all the important systems of the car will remain blocked. True, in this case, problems also arise for the real owner of the car, who has an immobilizer key fob. It allows you to deactivate the defense system.

It is necessary to dwell in more detail on which nodesblocks the device. If an attacker managed to get into the car interior and gain access to the dashboard, he may try to start the engine. In this case, the device will automatically block the main systems of the machine:

• ignition,
• starter,
• fuel supply.

As a result, the car refuses to start. You can stop the action of protective mechanisms using the immobilizer key fobs programmed to work with this vehicle. After receiving a signal from the owner, the car returns to working condition.

Can an immobilizer replace an alarm?

The device perfectly complements the alarm, but cannot completely replace it. The device does not have a theft warning function for the owner. If such an incident occurred, then it is likely that by the time the car is discovered, it will be looted. Thieves can encroach on valuables inside the cabin, steal the battery and other details. At the same time, the key fob of the VAZ immobilizer or a car of another brand does not send messages to the owner. The device operates without feedback. Only specialized alarm systems can notify about the facts of theft.

Detecting an immobilizer is an extremely time-consuming task for an intruder. Some modifications include at least 10 miniature devices combined into a single system and controlling the vehicle's wiring. Sometimes devices are implanted directly into safety blocks. If the ownercar has a Starline immobilizer key fob, then he can be calm about his property. His car is equipped with just such a complex system. Although professional hijackers may try to overcome the action of the protective system, they rarely succeed in completing their plans. Often they simply do not have enough time to deactivate all sensors.

What components are included in the immobilizer

The defense system includes 3 main components:

• control block,
• electromagnetic relays;
• key (keychain with label).

The control unit is the main element of the system and is responsible for activating the device. Disables and enables the immobilizer key fob. The label it contains is recognized by the device. After that, the owner gets access to the car.

The electromagnetic relay, after receiving the appropriate signal, opens the electrical network, as a result of which the machine comes to an immobilized state. Key fob is a control component. It is considered the property of the owner of the machine and serves to activate the functions of the protective system.

What is the function of the key

The key is a kind of password for the system. If it is recognized, the car can be started normally. Otherwise, blocking occurs. If the immobilizer key fob is lost, the Kalina (or another car - it doesn’t matter) simply cannot be started. Inside the key is a coded chip. It is on it that a signal or cipher is stored, which canrecognize the control unit.

It is important to take care of the storage of the key. If the owner of the car has lost the immobilizer key fob, he has great difficulties with reprogramming the system. This is an expensive procedure. In this case, it is often necessary to completely change all components of the system, including the control unit and electromagnetic relays.

Varieties of immobilizers

There are various modifications of the device in question. In some cases, the device allows an attacker to start the car and even drive some distance. But already after 200-300 meters the engine stalls, and the car completely stops responding to pressing buttons and levers. The meaning of the action of the modification is that the offender gets the opportunity to leave the isolated place in which the hijacking is carried out. He drives out into the open. Here it is much more dangerous for him to continue to make any manipulations with the car. Most often, the hijacker simply leaves the “suddenly” stopped car on the spot. The immobilizer key fob "Santa Fe" of 2003 works with such a system. and some other car models.

A transponder system is built into modern modifications of immobilizers. It has the following advantages:

• has a high level of protection against hacking;
• reduces the risk of theft to almost a minimum;
• functions on the basis of the contactless principle of operation;
• to unlock the system, use the immobilizer key fob containing a coded cipher for highdifficulty;
• automatic reading of the key code and unlocking the system when the owner of the car enters the field of action of the device.

Problems arising from the operation of immobilizers

Most often, difficulties arise not with the immobilizer itself, but with the key. It may simply be lost. In some cases, the encrypted code is erased. To avoid problems with the device, you should choose models from well-known manufacturers. A good option is the SmartCode immobilizer, the key fob body of which is made of high-quality plastic.

In case of replacement of some components of the system, there may be a mismatch of encrypted signals in the key on the one hand and the control unit on the other. Especially often this problem occurs when using used parts.

Is it possible to somehow solve the problem on my own if the Starline immobilizer does not see the key fob? It is impossible to answer this question unambiguously. It all depends on the nature of the problem. But, as practice shows, in most cases, the owner of the device has to turn to specialists for help. The situation is somewhat easier to solve if the device is under warranty.

What to do if the control unit fails

The main element of the system is the control unit. Many owners of cars equipped with an immobilizer have to deal with a breakdown of this unit at least once.

What are the solutions to the problem?

1. Purchasenew control unit, immobilizer key fob and electromagnetic relay. In this case, devices are programmed from scratch and integrated into the system. This solution to the problem will cost the car owner $400 or more.
2. Purchasing only a new control unit without additional components. The main difficulty lies in reprogramming the device for normal operation with other elements of the system. The procedure is quite complicated, and for its implementation you still need to find a qualified specialist. You will have to pay a little less for work than in the first case.
3. Purchasing a used set of parts (block, relay, key fob). In this case, no programming is required. It is only necessary to replace the above-mentioned components installed on the machine with purchased ones. After that, it will be possible to start the car engine in normal mode. The cost of the solution is from $200.

What is the best way to solve a problem?

About half the time, car owners prefer to solve the problem in the second way. This is the cheapest option. The downside of the solution is the use of used components. It is not known for certain under what conditions they were used before. It is difficult to assess their condition. Therefore, it is not at all clear when buying how long a used control unit can function normally without creating problems for the vehicle owner. In any case, do not despair if one day the key fob of the VAZ-2110 immobilizer or another car stops working as expected. A solution can always be found. You just need to contact a competent specialist.

What should I do if I lose my key fob?

If you lose your key fob, you need to purchase a new one. After that, it is necessary to perform the procedure for reprogramming the control unit. New key identifiers are written to the immobilizer memory, which the system will later be able to recognize as valid.

If there was a software failure, and the Santa Fe immobilizer key fob 2003 c. or another brand machine stops working, you need to rewrite the ID into the memory of the device. After this procedure, the system will continue to function normally, and the car owner will be able to continue using the old chip key.

How to bind the multiplex key fob to the immobilizer?

There are several ways to bind. The choice of option depends on the type of device. If the multiplex type immobilizer key fob has been replaced (two buttons), you must proceed according to the following algorithm:

1. Place the key in the lock.
2. Press the button that closes the doors.
3. Turn the key to the ignition position.
4. Wait 10 seconds, then release the button.
5. Turn off ignition, remove key.
6. Repeat the procedure (points 1-5) 1 to 3 times.

This method solves the problem in most cases.

How to bind a one-button keychain?

The above method is not suitable for all cases. Ifthe owner of the car has an immobilizer key fob with one button, in this case, the device binding procedure is as follows.

It is necessary to check that the car doors are tightly closed. Locks must not be locked.

1. Next, you need to press and hold the big button until the diode stops blinking.
2. When the driver releases the button, the diode should light evenly.
3. Then you need to press the button. The diode should turn off.
4. Next, the driver must open the doors and place the key in the ignition.
5. After that, a button is pressed on the key fob.
6. Then you need to activate the ignition and wait at least 10 seconds.
7. Now the ignition can be turned off.
8. In 5 seconds, the key fob should come into working condition.

On domestic cars, a one-button immobilizer key fob is often used. Priora and other Russian cars are equipped with such a system due to its simplicity, reliability and low price. It is unlikely that attackers encroaching on an inexpensive car will take the time to overcome even the most primitive defense systems.

Most popular immobilizer models

In the field of production of the presented category of devices, there are generally recognized leaders. These include the following companies:

• SmartCode.
• StarLine.
• Pandect.
• ProKey.
• Spirit.

One of the best price-quality ratios for StarLine products. It offers simple and reliable systems thathighly regarded by experts. The company's models have a high level of software and hardware components. At the same time, the StarLine S770 immobilizer keychain and other modifications have an ergonomic design. It's nice to hold it in your hand. The paint does not peel off, and the product retains a presentable appearance for a long time.

Deserves attention and products of the company SmartCode. The company was one of the pioneers in the industry. Its technologies allow to produce equipment of the highest class. It is extremely rare for drivers who install the SmartCode immobilizer in their car to complain. The body of the keychain is made of high quality materials. All models use expensive electronic components. This minimizes the chance of a breakdown.