342: Keyless Access Module Registration, How Hard Can It Be?
About this episode
A deep dive into the challenges of registering a keyless access control module on a 2018 Acura RDX, highlighting the complexities of immobilizer systems and module programming. The discussion covers the interplay between various vehicle control modules, the nuances of Honda and Acura immobilizer systems, and the difficulties faced when aftermarket tools fail to register new modules. The episode also explores diagnostic strategies, the importance of understanding the vehicle's history, and the impact of incorrect diagnoses on programming success. Practical tips on key status checking and tool selection are shared, making it a valuable resource for technicians dealing with similar programming hurdles.
This week on the show I share my struggles trying to register a keyless access control unit in a 2018 Acura RDX. We've done many of these modules on other Honda's and Acura's before with no issues. This car however throws us a curve ball. Listen to here the solution.
Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/
Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/
YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832
Email- [email protected]
Please make sure to check out our sponsors!
SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/
Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/
L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/
Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/
Acura Rdx
"So this was a 2018 Acura RDX SUV and this was a programming job that the shop called us in for,"
The Acura RDX is a small luxury SUV made by Acura, which is Honda's fancy car brand. The 2018 version has a turbocharged engine and lots of modern features.
The Acura RDX is a compact luxury crossover SUV produced by Acura, Honda's luxury vehicle division. The 2018 model is part of the third generation, known for its turbocharged engine and advanced technology features.
Keyless Access Control Unit
"Keyless Access Control Unit, which is just the control module that is going to work with the proximity keys in order to identify that the key belongs to the vehicle."
This is a computer inside the car that talks to the special key you carry. It makes sure the key is yours so you can unlock and start the car without using a regular key.
The Keyless Access Control Unit is an electronic control module in vehicles that manages communication with proximity keys. It verifies that the key belongs to the vehicle and allows keyless entry and starting.
immobilizer
"And then it serves as the immobilizer or one of the immobilizer modules for the vehicle in order to key it up and to start it."
An immobilizer is a safety feature that stops your car from starting if you don't have the right key. It helps keep your car safe from thieves.
An immobilizer is an electronic security device in vehicles that prevents the engine from starting unless the correct key or token is present. It helps reduce vehicle theft.
engine control module
"and then working with both the engine control module and the body control module in order to"
This is a small computer in your car that controls how the engine runs, like when to add fuel and when to fire the spark plugs, so the car works well.
The engine control module (ECM) is a computer that manages engine functions such as fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control to optimize performance and efficiency.
body control module
"and then working with both the engine control module and the body control module in order to"
This is a computer in your car that controls things like the lights, windows, and locks to make sure they work properly.
The body control module (BCM) is an electronic control unit that manages various electronic accessories in a vehicle, such as lighting, windows, and security systems.
nine speed transmission
"some of these Hondas and Acuras of this era that use a nine speed transmission, the transmission control module for the nine speed is actually part of the immobilizer system as well."
A nine speed transmission is a car part that changes gears automatically to help the car go faster or slower smoothly.
A nine speed transmission is a type of automatic transmission with nine forward gear ratios, allowing for better fuel efficiency and smoother acceleration.
transmission control module
"the transmission control module for the nine speed is actually part of the immobilizer system as well. And that is something to be aware of if a shop replaces a TCM on the nine speed Hondas or Acuras."
The transmission control module is a small computer in the car that helps change gears at the right time.
The transmission control module (TCM) is an electronic component that manages the operation of the transmission, controlling gear shifts and ensuring optimal performance.
Honda Crvs
"Although now that I say that we've done some CRVs that were pretty close to this year range as well."
The Honda CR-V is a smaller SUV that lots of people like because it's dependable and easy to use.
The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV popular for its reliability and practicality. Some models in the discussed year range also use similar keyless access and immobilizer systems.
programming service
"And that's the process. It's not programming necessarily, although we group that, you know, under the programming service that we offer,"
Programming service means setting up the car's computer parts so they work correctly with the car and keys.
Programming service refers to the process of configuring electronic modules or keys to work with a specific vehicle, often involving software tools.
Service Information
"And so we went through Service Info while he was there just to see, are we missing something? Is there a different step on this particular vehicle that other Hondas and Acuras don't have?"
Service Information is like a detailed instruction book from the car maker that helps mechanics fix the car the right way.
Service Information refers to official repair manuals or databases provided by manufacturers that guide technicians on how to diagnose and repair vehicles.
scan tool
"If you go into Service Info, it says hook up the scan tool, go to this function, and then read the directions on the tool."
A scan tool is a gadget that connects to your car's computer to find problems or help fix things.
A scan tool is a diagnostic device that connects to a vehicle's onboard computer to read error codes, perform programming, or carry out maintenance functions.
smart key
"One of the real common ones that I can think of is for Chrysler vehicles, where it's going to tell you to hold the smart key up to the button for particular like Dodge Jeep vehicles, where the key actually needs to be as closer to the"
A smart key lets you open and start your car without putting a key in the door or ignition. It works when you have the key nearby.
A smart key is a keyless entry and ignition system that allows a driver to unlock and start a vehicle without physically inserting a key, often using proximity sensors.
key learning
"center console, because that's where the antenna that interacts with the key during the key learning is, right? And that's just a common thing that you would see at an auto that it's going to tell you to put the key in the wrong spot, essentially."
Key learning means teaching the car to recognize a new key so it can start the engine.
Key learning is the process by which a vehicle's security system recognizes and pairs a new or replacement key with the car's immobilizer system to allow the vehicle to start.
remanufactured
"Or where did you get this module from? New use, remanufactured, online special, where did that thing come from?"
A remanufactured part is a used car part that has been fixed up to work like new again.
Remanufactured parts are used components that have been restored to like-new condition by replacing worn or damaged parts and testing to meet original specifications.
dealer
"And that's true, even if it is from the dealer, but at least if it's from the dealer, we have a better chance."
A dealer is a store or company that sells new cars or parts that are made by the car company.
A dealer is an authorized seller of new or certified parts and vehicles, often providing genuine components with warranty and support.
key tool max
"If you have a tool like the key tool max, or a hotel cam 100, and I'm sure there's some other tools as well, they'll read the mobilizer chip that is within the, the key itself, right,"
Key Tool Max is a gadget that helps read and set up car keys so they can start the car.
Key Tool Max is a specialized diagnostic device used by locksmiths and technicians to read and program vehicle keys and immobilizer chips.
hotel cam 100
"If you have a tool like the key tool max, or a hotel cam 100, and I'm sure there's some other tools as well, they'll read the mobilizer chip that is within the, the key itself, right,"
Hotel Cam 100 is a tool that helps check and set up car keys so the car will recognize them.
Hotel Cam 100 is another type of key programming and diagnostic tool used to read immobilizer chips and program keys for vehicles.
blade key
"whether that be a blade key or a smart key, you can read the data."
A blade key is a regular metal key you put in the car door or ignition to open or start it.
A blade key is a traditional physical metal key with a cut pattern used to mechanically unlock and start a vehicle.
KM 100
"if you're going to do any mobilizer stuff, you should have something like a key tool max or KM 100 in order to read the data out of the tool, right?"
KM 100 is a tool that helps locksmiths and mechanics read and program car keys so they can start the car.
KM 100 is another aftermarket key programming and diagnostic tool used for reading and programming transponder keys and immobilizer modules.
Transponder Island
"So we order one, we use a transponder island right now. And depending on where you're located, you can get a key overnight, you know, mailed to you for a very reasonable price."
Transponder Island is a website where you can buy car keys and parts to help program them so your car will start.
Transponder Island is an online retailer specializing in automotive keys, transponders, and programming tools, offering fast shipping and competitive pricing.
push button start
"One thing I do want to point out here, and this is useful for any Honda push button stuff... it has you hold the start button. And then it will actually key up the vehicle."
Instead of using a key to start the car, push button start lets you just press a button to turn the engine on, as long as you have the special key fob nearby.
Push button start is a vehicle ignition system that allows the driver to start the engine by pressing a button instead of turning a traditional key. It typically works with a key fob that communicates wirelessly with the vehicle.
Honda HDS
"So at this point, I'm like, okay, I'm going to try the Honda tool, right? So there's the Honda HDS, which you can just purchase a subscription through a Honda tech info or Honda service express, you make an account, you buy a subscription."
Honda HDS is a special computer program that helps Honda mechanics check and fix problems in Honda cars, including programming keys.
Honda HDS (Honda Diagnostic System) is a professional diagnostic software used by Honda technicians to access vehicle systems, run diagnostics, and perform programming tasks like immobilizer functions.
Honda Service Express
"So at this point, I'm like, okay, I'm going to try the Honda tool, right? So there's the Honda HDS, which you can just purchase a subscription through a Honda tech info or Honda service express, you make an account, you buy a subscription. Now, there's various subscriptions for both lengths and what you're trying to do. And if you're going to do immobilizer functions, there's a security professional one, you do have to be registered with NASDAF, it is going to ask for your credentials."
Honda Service Express is a website where Honda mechanics can buy access to special tools and information to fix Honda cars.
Honda Service Express is an official online platform where technicians can purchase subscriptions to access Honda technical information, diagnostic tools, and security functions.
VIN number
"And then you're going to enter your VIN number, and it's going to give you a PCM code. And then you can enter that PCM code in order to get the immobilizer tool to connect to the vehicle."
A VIN number is like a car's fingerprint that helps identify it and get important info about the car.
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to every vehicle, used for identification and accessing vehicle-specific information like key codes and programming.
proximity key tester
"They have a proximity key tester, which there's some other tools out there, but that's my favorite just because it's simple, easy to use."
This tool checks if your car and key are talking to each other properly.
A proximity key tester is a specialized diagnostic device that tests the communication between the vehicle's proximity system and the key fob.
125 kilohertz
"on the low frequency antenna side of things, the 125 kilohertz, and on the output of the key,"
This is the frequency or type of signal your car uses to find your key nearby.
125 kilohertz (kHz) is the typical low frequency used by vehicle proximity antennas to communicate with key fobs.
key programming
"I go through the process. And now really, I'm only doing one key at a time, I'm able to program it in no problem. It takes the keys, it takes all of the keys, the two originals and the new one programs them in no problem."
Key programming means teaching your car to recognize a new key so it will start the engine and let you use it.
Key programming is the process of registering a new key or smart key fob with a vehicle's immobilizer system so that the car recognizes and accepts it for starting and security purposes.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.