Car Locksmith: A Guide on Engine Immobilizer System

Car theft is an unfortunately common occurrence, but there are measures you can take to discourage potential thieves. In fact, your car may even have some anti-theft protection built-in. Immobilizer systems were first introduced by GM in the early 1980s. Immobilizer systems, as the name suggests, stop your car from starting without your key, making it harder for someone to steal your vehicle. We have asked our team of specialized car key locksmiths in Orlando what are their thoughts on immobilizer systems, and this is what they had to say.

A key immobilizer system, also known as an engine immobilizer system, is a security feature designed to prevent unauthorized access to a vehicle. It works by immobilizing or disabling the engine's ability to start if the correct key or transponder chip is not present. Here's how it works:

1. Key or Transponder Chip: Each authorized user is provided with a unique key or transponder chip that is programmed to work with a specific vehicle. This key or chip contains a microchip with a code that the vehicle's immobilizer system recognizes.
2. Ignition System Communication: When you insert the key or push the ignition button (in the case of a keyless system) to start the vehicle, the immobilizer system sends a signal to the key or transponder chip.
3. Authentication: The key or transponder chip must respond with the correct code. If the code matches the one stored in the vehicle's immobilizer system, authentication is successful, and the system allows the engine to start.
4. Immobilization: If an unauthorized key or chip is used or if the code doesn't match, the immobilizer system prevents the engine from starting. It achieves this by cutting off power to essential engine components, such as the starter motor or fuel injection system. Without these components functioning, the engine cannot start.
5. Anti-Theft Deterrent: The key immobilizer system acts as a significant deterrent to vehicle theft. Even if a thief manages to physically access the inside of the vehicle, they won't be able to start the engine without the correct key or transponder chip.

Key immobilizer systems are highly effective in preventing hotwiring and unauthorized use of a vehicle. They have significantly reduced vehicle theft rates and contributed to improved vehicle security. Additionally, modern immobilizer systems are often integrated with other security features, such as alarms and remote keyless entry systems, further enhancing vehicle protection.

When you insert your key in the ignition and attempt to turn your car on, the ignition will send a signal to your transponder. Short for transmitter and responder, the transponder is a chip found inside your car key. The transponder then responds to the ignition with its own signal, and the ignition forwards the signal to your car's ECM. If the ECM does not receive the right signal, the immobilizer system will not be disabled and your car will not start. If you have an anti-theft light in your vehicle and the light does not go off when you insert your key, you may need to have your key replaced.

If you need a new or replacement car key,  give us a call  to get your transponder programmed in Orlando. We can also make copies or order replacements of your non-transponder keys. Locksmith services are usually able to help you one way or another to deal with an immobilizer issue.