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System Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Toyota Corolla. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. ENGINE IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM DESCRIPTION 

    The engine immobilizer system is designed to prevent the vehicle from being stolen. This system uses the transponder key ECU that stores the key codes of authorized ignition keys. If an attempt is made to start the engine using an unauthorized key, the ECU sends a signal to the ECM to prohibit fuel delivery and ignition, effectively disabling the engine.

  2. FUNCTION OF MAIN COMPONENTS 
    Component Outline
    Transponder key coil/amplifier When key is inserted in ignition key cylinder, key coil receives key code. Then amplifier amplifies ID code and outputs it to transponder key ECU assembly.
    Unlock warning switch assembly Unlock warning switch assembly detects if key is in ignition key cylinder and outputs results to transponder key ECU assembly.
    ECM ECM receives ID verification results from transponder key ECU assembly. ECM also verifies ECUs. Then judgment of whether to immobilizer engine is made.
    Security indicator Depending on operation of transponder key ECU assembly, security indicator light comes on or starts blinking.
  3. SYSTEM FUNCTION 
    1. When the transponder key ECU assembly detects that the key unlock warning switch is ON, the ECU provides current to the transponder key coil and produces an electric wave. A transponder chip in the key grip receives the electric wave. Upon receiving the electric wave, the transponder chip outputs a key ID code signal. The transponder key coil receives this signal, which is amplified by the transponder key amplifier, and the signal is transmitted to the ECU.

      The ECU matches the key ID code with the vehicle's ID code, which was previously registered in the ECU, and communicates the results to the ECM.

      After the identification results show that the key ID code matches the vehicle's ID code and the ECU has confirmed their match: 1) the immobilizer system does not immobilize the engine and the engine starting controls (fuel injection control and ignition control) enter standby mode; and 2) the ECU transmits a security indicator signal that communicates "indicator off" to the clock. Then, the clock turns off the security indicator light.

    2. The security indicator blinking pattern is as shown below (when changing from the immobilizer set status to the unset status):
      Fig 1: Security Indicator Blinking Pattern
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