Car Immobilizers: How Do They Work?
How Do Immobilizers Work?
Today’s Fiat, Opel, Subaru, Mercedes key fob replacement, and the same services for other car models require special settings and operations to serve, program, and synchronize immobilizers. These are special units in the vehicle that allow the engine to start if the correct key is inserted. Additionally, there are smart systems that allow you to turn the ignition system on and off remotely.
All these options are possible due to the immobilizer unit that detects the matching key and allows drivers to start the engine. It means that even keyless access to the auto is controlled via immobilizers as well. The battery-powered fob is presented in the vehicle to turn on the ignition system.
- Speaking about the present-day immobilizers’ mode of action, there are the following principles of their work in the modern car models:
- There is a transmitter that is responsible for data reading. This information is received from the key fob and sent to the immobilizer.
- It is worth noting that these data entries are encrypted. That is why any attempt to hack this system without a correct key fob is impossible.
- The specific encrypted key is inserted to turn the engine on. In the case of keyless access, this data is received through the signals sent from the smart key fob with the same coding (encryption).
- If the match between the key or a key fob takes place, the ignition system is started on or off.
It is worth noting that the original key can be replaced only by competent specialists – locksmiths. They can decode the encryption if the original key is lost, damaged, or stolen. Then, they synchronize a new key or key fob with the vehicle through the encryption model. It means that any new key without required programming cannot turn on/off your engine.
Is Hot-Wiring Possible with Immobilizers?
It is impossible to run a hot-wiring process if the immobilizer unit is placed in the vehicle. You cannot deactivate a code that was generated through encryption this way. That is why immobilizers are a great way to protect your automobile from carjacking. A sudden criminal who can run hot-wiring to start the engine system will face difficulties and cannot drive your auto to another location without the correct key or a remote fob for keyless access.
If you have any issues with your immobilizer, it is reasonable to contact qualified locksmiths to restore access to your car. High-grade key replacement services with programming and synchronization of a new key set or fob for your auto are required to decode the ignition system and initiate new encryption for your safety and convenience.
