How to start the car if the key chip is broken?
4 Answers
If the anti-theft chip is damaged, you can use the mechanical key to start the car. If the mechanical key fails to start the car, you will need to go to a 4S store to get a new key with a chip, or you can directly make a brand new key and invalidate the previous chip. Here are the detailed instructions: 1. When the car key chip is damaged, you can also use the spare mechanical key to start the vehicle. 2. The car key mainly contains an encrypted chip inside. When unlocking, the vehicle's radio frequency transceiver authenticates the key to confirm whether it matches, thereby determining whether the engine can be started. 3. This car chip is a digital anti-theft device, mainly locking the car's motor circuit and fuel system. Without the chip key, the vehicle may not start. 4. This chip is a small coil that can be used to modify data. If the vehicle cannot detect the security chip, the car's computer will stop supplying fuel, achieving the purpose of engine anti-theft.
I also encountered the issue of a broken car key chip last time. Actually, many car keys nowadays come with anti-theft chips, and the car won't start if it's not recognized. The quickest solution is to use a spare key. If that's lost, it can be a bit troublesome. I've tried placing the key next to the start button to let the car sense it, which works for some models. If all else fails, you'll have to contact a 4S shop or a professional auto repair shop—they can reprogram a new key. I've also heard that in emergencies, disconnecting the battery to reset the system might temporarily solve the problem, but it's not a long-term fix and could mess up other settings. I recommend keeping two keys separately as a precaution. Replacing the chip only costs a few hundred bucks, which is much cheaper than calling a tow truck.
As a veteran driver with ten years of experience, if you encounter a key chip malfunction, don't panic. First, check the car's start-up induction area—some models have it inside the center console—try placing the key against it to start. If that doesn't work, use the mechanical key to open the door, then look for the emergency start function inside the car. Regularly check if the key is damp or damaged, and it's important to carry two keys in your bag. If the issue persists, it's advisable to visit a professional auto repair shop nearby. They have diagnostic equipment to identify the problem and can reprogram a new key. Avoid disassembling the key yourself to prevent damage to the internal circuits.
The main reason for a broken key chip is that the anti-theft system cannot recognize the signal. The simplest solution is to use a spare key to start the vehicle. If there is no spare key, some vehicles have an induction area, such as under the steering wheel or in the cup holder. Placing the broken key close to the start button may temporarily resolve the issue. If the problem occurs during a long-distance drive, you can call roadside assistance for help. In the long run, it is necessary to replace the chip and visit a 4S shop for key matching procedures. Remember to avoid placing the key in strong magnetic field environments like induction cooktops to protect the chip.
