You get in the car, turn the key or press start, and… nothing. No crank, no click — just silence. Or maybe the engine turns over but won’t fire.
If your car key suddenly won’t start your vehicle, the issue might not be the battery or starter motor — it could be your immobiliser system.
At 247 Auto Locksmith, we regularly assist drivers across Surrey, West Sussex, South London, and Kent with key and immobiliser faults. Here’s what you need to know if your car refuses to start — and how we can help.
What Is a Car Immobiliser?
An immobiliser is an anti-theft security device built into almost every modern vehicle. It prevents the engine from starting unless the correct key (with the correct chip) is used.
Inside your car key is a small transponder chip, which communicates with the vehicle’s immobiliser system when you try to start the engine. If the chip is missing, damaged, or not recognised, the car simply won’t start.
Common Immobiliser-Related Problems
1. Key Turns But Car Doesn’t Start
If the key turns in the ignition but the car won’t start, and you’re not hearing the usual engine crank, it may be due to the immobiliser blocking the ignition signal.
2. Warning Lights on the Dashboard
Some vehicles show a key symbol, a padlock icon, or a flashing immobiliser light if there’s a problem with key recognition.
3. Intermittent Starting Issues
If your car starts sometimes but not always, the transponder chip or the car’s receiver may be faulty — or there could be water damage or corrosion inside the key fob.
4. Key Fob Works But Car Won’t Start
Even if the remote buttons lock/unlock the car, the transponder chip inside the key might be faulty or missing, especially in cheap online or second-hand keys.
What Causes Immobiliser Issues?
- Water damage or corrosion inside the key
- Dead or low-quality batteries (remote functions may still work inconsistently)
- Worn-out key fobs from years of use
- Lost programming during a flat battery, jump start, or electrical fault
- Replaced modules or ECUs without proper reprogramming
How 247 Auto Locksmith Can Help
We specialise in diagnosing and resolving key and immobiliser issues quickly and on-site. Here’s what we can do:
- Test and replace faulty keys or chips
- Supply and program genuine, OEM, or aftermarket keys
- Repair water-damaged or worn-out fobs
- Resync transponder chips with the car’s immobiliser
- Provide a new working key even if all keys are lost
We carry the right tools and stock to fix 90% of issues on the spot — no towing, no dealer delays.
Don’t Let Immobiliser Issues Ruin Your Day
If your car won’t start and you suspect the immobiliser or key is to blame, don’t waste time guessing or calling a breakdown service.
Call 247 Auto Locksmith on 07921 365247 — or request a quote on our website.
We cover most areas across the South East and aim to reach you within the hour when possible.
No call-out fees. Genuine solutions that work.