What to Do When Your Immobilizer Stops Working

Having an immobilizer put you in lockdown is similar to locking yourself out of your car. It may just take a little longer to get you going again.

• Make sure you're using the right key. A valet key won't have the necessary chip.
• Try replacing the battery in your key fob. You do have replacements in the glove box, right?
• Turn your key to 'on' so only the accessories work. Leave the key there for 10 to 15 minutes. If the anti-theft light has stopped blinking, turn the key to 'off' and wait a couple of minutes. This process will (hopefully!) reset the anti-theft system. If it doesn't work the first time, try again. After you make sure your car battery isn't drained, that is!
• Insert the actual key in the driver's side door lock. Turn the key but don't release it — give the system 20 to 30 seconds to recognize your key as the proper one. If that doesn't work, try turning the key both ways in the lock. Locking and unlocking the door should show that you're actually allowed to drive this car.

Does a Key Ever Just Wear Out?

Like any small metal object that's used regularly, keys are subject to wear through use. So, what are the signs of a worn key?

• The edges are becoming slightly rounded instead of sharp and crisp. 
• The key might appear slightly warped or even misshapen.
• The metal is badly scratched and appears dull.
• It doesn't fit in the lock the way it used to.

Pro Tip: Have duplicates made of important keys while they're still new. Use that duplicate if you ever need a new key made and you won't be replicating any of the flaws listed above.

If the ECM isn't recognizing the key, a properly equipped locksmith can"reflash" your system (overwrite data onto the computer chip in the ECM) so it works again. If you're worried that someone may have stolen your key, an experienced locksmith will provide you with a new key with a different chip and will reflash the immobilizer system to match it. 

Prolocksmith Can Help

Whether you've locked yourself out or your car immobilizer has done it for you, let the pros at Prolocksmith help! We can get you into a locked vehicle, reflash your immobilizer, or provide all new keys. Contact us and our friendly dispatchers and experienced locksmiths will have you back on the road in no time.  Despite your car immobilizer's best efforts!