Replacing the Starline immobilizer crawler with your own hands

Author: Evgeny Zhivoglyadov. Date of publication: March 15, 2016. Category: Automotive equipment.

Today, most cars are equipped with a standard immobilizer. This device allows you to prevent the theft of a vehicle, even if the attacker managed to disable the car alarm. In this case, the device operates on a different principle than the “signaling”. Immo remains invisible until the last moment and does not emit any signals to attract others or scare off the robber. The principle of operation of this device is that as soon as the thief inserts his key into the ignition, the engine will automatically turn off and nothing can be done with the car. There are also immobilizers that even allow you to move away, but as soon as the thief drives a few hundred meters, all the car’s systems will turn off and the robber will have no choice but to immediately leave the car and escape from the scene of the crime.

Of course, in theory everything sounds great, but in practice immo often starts to malfunction, causing car owners a lot of inconvenience. The most common problem is the engine turning off, even if the owner of the car is driving. This happens, as usual, at the most inconvenient moment and the driver has to use the emergency system of the engine plant or even call a tow truck.

The second common problem is the loss of the “native” key.

It’s no wonder that, along with modern “anti-theft” devices, special devices began to appear that allow you to bypass the immobilizer with your own hands. The most popular crawlers today are Starline devices, which can bypass various operating systems of standard devices.

Starline immobilizer bypass

Using autostart is a convenient thing, but on any more or less modern car it directly conflicts with the car’s standard anti-theft system. What do autostart circuits physically do? Turn on the ignition and power to the starter, bypassing the ignition switch. But at the moment when voltage appears on the circuits powered through the ignition line (regardless of how), the car’s standard immobilizer begins to request a response chip, which is either applied to a separate reader or located in the key itself. No response – engine starting is blocked. For successful autostart, the alarm must be able to simulate the presence of a chip in the reader’s coverage area - this task is performed by the immobilizer crawler.

Alternative ways to bypass the immobilizer

The simplest solution to the problem of bypassing the immobilizer without a special module is to completely disconnect it from the power supply. This method works, but you need to understand that without a transponder there is still a risk of any attacker who knows how to use code grabbers gaining access to control the car.

Another solution would be the Starline immobilizer bypass in the form of a key, which is simply left in the car without connecting to the alarm system. To unlock the transponder, you need to send a signal from the key fob to the crawler - the immobilizer will also pick it up and provide access to start.

The design and principle of operation of the Starline immobilizer crawler

The classic Starline immobilizer bypass in a separate unit is very simple: it consists of two wire antennas (on the ignition switch and built into the bypass body), the connection between which is broken using a relay. This relay is controlled by a special alarm output, which is activated only when the autostart is triggered.

When the antennas are connected, they are able to connect the standard immobilizer reader with a chip hidden away from it. The relay is needed so that the immobilizer can “see” the chip only at the time of auto start - if the thief simply rolls up the ignition switch cylinder or connects the wires behind the lock, the immobilizer will not receive a signal from the hidden chip and will not allow the engine to start. When starting the car with a standard key, the immobilizer, without breaking the line between the crawler antennas, would “see” two chips at once - and this can lead to conflicts and problems with starting.

You can install the Starline immobilizer bypass in any place - just the length of the wire between the overhead antenna and the bypass is enough. Situations are possible when the power of the signal directed by the reader to the overhead antenna, and from it through the internal antenna of the crawler to the chip, is not enough for reliable communication - the car either starts, or autostart is completely blocked.

In this case, a gap connection is used - one of the signal wires going to the reader on the ignition switch is cut, and the lineman is directly connected to the gap; an overhead antenna is not used. In this case, the internal antenna is directly connected to the immobilizer circuit and receives a more powerful signal.

When using an overhead antenna, it must be securely attached as close as possible to the reader: the greater the distance between them, the weaker the signal transmitted to the chip. The immobilizer bypass is designed for cars with RFID chips and cannot work on cars with other reading principles (for example, infrared on Renault Scenic)

What is a crawler and in what cases is it used?

The anti-theft system often only works with a key with a chip. This method of protection prevents the engine from starting using a key with similar data. The chip is registered in the brains of the car, so any manipulation of the ignition switch with other tools will not bring the desired effect. The bypass allows you to disable this function in the engine, or rather, bypass the system.

There are several types of crawlers that cope with their task, but have different algorithms of action:

1. Standard crawlers involve inserting the entire key or only part of it with a chip into the device. The device is camouflaged near the ignition switch. When the owner of the car gives a signal, he unlocks the system and executes a specific command.
2. The second popular type is the StarLine keyless immobilizer bypass. The device acts directly on the brains of the car, so it does not require a spare key or chip to be constantly located inside the car. This type of device is quite popular and can be used both on domestic cars and on foreign cars.

Malfunctions

By itself, the immobilizer bypass practically cannot break down - the only component that can fail is the relay, but its resource, taking into account the frequency of use of the autostart, is very long. Problems with autostart due to the fault of a crawler are simply checked:

1. When turning off the car, leave the key in the ignition without removing it so that it remains within the range of the reader.
2. Wait at least 30 seconds.
3. Set the car to security, then give the command to autostart, observing the reaction.
4. If during autostart the ignition turns on normally, the engine is cranked by the starter and catches, then the problem is precisely in connection with the lineman. Otherwise, you can exclude this from the list of possible faults.

To check the Starline crawler, you must first find it by tracking it along the wire from the overhead antenna. The antenna, of course, must be in the right place - it often slides to the side if the installer did not fasten it properly at the time.

There are two two-pin connectors on the body of the immobilizer crawler: a patch antenna is connected to one of them, and power and control are connected to the second. The red wire of this connector should be supplied with “plus” power either constantly or simultaneously with the ignition (depending on how the installer did it); on the black wire a “ground” from the alarm appears at the moment when the autostart algorithm starts (or pulsed, or for the entire time the autorun is running).

The easiest way to check the presence of normal communication between the reader and the crawler is to forcibly supply power and ground to the crawler, and then try to autostart again. When applying direct power, it is also worth checking whether the contacts of the relay soldered on the board are closed. If everything is fine, but startup does not occur, you need to try to move the chip or key assembly hidden inside the crawler antenna - the quality of communication also depends on the relative position of the chip and antenna. The antenna itself must be pressed tightly against the key or chip and fixed in this position (for example, with hot glue).

Wireless immobilizer crawler Starline

On modern StarLine alarm systems with an integrated CAN module, keyless bypass of the immobilizer is also possible on a number of cars - this does not require a crawler; the CAN module itself performs the chip imitation. To be able to use keyless bypass, you need to make sure that:

• alarm model is Starline A93 or newer, with support for installing expansion modules;
• for a specific car model, a keyless crawler is supported: to do this, you need to go to the website can.starline.ru, select the type of module used there (2CAN, CAN+LIN, 2CAN+2LIN);
• select the make and model of the car: a list of features supported in the current firmware for this car will open;
• Scroll to the item “Bypassing the standard immobilizer”. It should be checked - this means that keyless bypass is supported here.

Then, in any case, you will have to go to an authorized Starline installation center, because setting up and training the keyless crawler is carried out only through proprietary software, which requires authorization under the account of a certified installer - you cannot configure the keyless crawler yourself.

Source

Keyless option

An expensive option is a keyless immobilizer bypass, which works without sending signals to the chips, but interferes with the electronic call from the antenna. It is quite difficult to decipher a complex encoded signal, however, if this is possible, then there will be no need to perform any software or physical intervention in the operation of the immobilizer.

Modern automakers are strict about the production of additional keys with chips. Sometimes the cost of the third copy can be calculated in five-digit sums in rubles. Often, additional reissues are even blocked programmatically. In such a situation, all that remains is to bypass the keyless immobilizer, which can already be installed on almost 1000 different car models.

A well-known manufacturer of this product is the Canadian company Fortin. The device operates on several standard frequency channels. The positive thing is that only the motor will be turned on. The described device does not perform any manipulations with unlocking the steering wheel or the automatic transmission handle. Everything will be in a locked state.

This quality is the main advantage over methods that involve a second key. At the same time, the driver will always present a complete set of keys to the insurance company, and the car will be under guard. The negative point is that such technology may not be installed on all cars.

General information about the bypass module

According to the description, the Starline keyless alarm bypasser with auto start is a functional unit in a small-sized housing. The device is integrated into the structure of the security system as one of the control components. The purpose of this equipment in a car is to simulate a key, which is necessary to disable the standard engine lock.

The crawler was created to work with standard blockers that operate using the RFID system. Such devices usually do not make it possible to start the car engine remotely, which can cause inconvenience to the car owner.

If you decide to install and connect a crawler, you should remember that the device can only function with security systems of its own brand. The chip that is installed in the key is completely unique; its use is not allowed with similar systems used on other machines. Even if the same immo crawler is installed on the car, you will not be able to use this key to unlock it.

The module, which allows you to bypass the standard blocker, structurally consists of:

• processor device;
• an antenna module equipped with a plug with a wire that connects to the machine’s electrical network;
• an additional transceiver made in the form of a wire loop;
• setup and usage guides.

Artem Kasyanenko examined in detail the features and capabilities of the Starline F1 crawler.

In order for the Starline Can Lin car alarm bypass block to work, you will need an additional key with a transponder installed inside. You can purchase such a device from the official dealer of your car brand. The cost of an immo crawler from Starline is about 3200-5000 rubles.

Installation of an alarm system with auto start

Almost all crawlers are introduced into the infrastructure of ready-to-use alarm systems. Therefore, you should start your review of installation work by installing the basic package. Actually, you need to install a few components - a central control unit, shock sensors, a siren, an antenna and power supply communications.

The installation of an alarm system with auto start begins with the installation of the control unit. It is advisable to install it in a hidden place under the central panel. Fastening is carried out with standard fixtures, screws, self-tapping screws and other complete fasteners. The siren is installed with the horn down in the engine compartment - wiring is supplied to it from the main unit.

As for the antenna, it should be fixed in the upper part of the windshield, but so that there is no operating electrical equipment near it. Sensors are placed in the most dangerous places on windows and doors - they control physical access to the cabin.

Features of work

In fact, a chip installed in a small transponder is used to capture impulses from the standard key. Any lock, regardless of the car brand, has a key identification function, by which the system identifies the car owner. Therefore, if the key matches the lock according to its geometric characteristics, but the chip located inside turns out to be incompatible or does not exist at all, the lock will not turn off. Also, a ban on starting the power unit will work in the case when the remote engine start function is used, since the standard immobilizer will not be able to identify the key.

Installing a keyless crawler will allow you to replace the chip installed in the standard transponder, which allows you to disable the lock. When the remote start option is enabled, the device automatically sends a signal through the transceiver to the key chip. In fact, it is incorrect to call this device a crawler, since it operates on a different principle of gaining access to the power unit.

A detailed overview of the VR-03 model from Starline and its operating principle is given in the AutoAudioTsentr video.

What systems of operation of a regular immo exist?

All standard “anti-theft” systems work according to one of two systems, namely:

1. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). Such systems consist of a special chip located inside the key, which is connected to the immobilizer. In a situation where the device does not detect this key, the engine will not start. Systems of this type apply to European and Asian machines.

1. VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). A system aimed at “Americans” has higher requirements (resistance and other characteristics). Only when all conditions are met does the control unit allow the engine to start.

The VATS system is considered the most difficult to bypass, since technologies are constantly being improved during the production of such devices. For example, the encryption in such devices is no longer 40-bit, but 80-bit, as a result of which it will be extremely difficult to bypass such an immo.

Healthy! In order to disable the standard immobilizer operating on the VATS system, it is enough to determine the resistance value of the resistor. Typically it ranges from 400-11800 Ohms. If you determine it, then all that remains is to select a part with the same indicator.

Today, the most popular devices are equipped with just such blocks (VATS), for example, the Starline i95 immobilizer. But you shouldn’t despair, since the same company that produces the best immos today also produces the highest quality linemen.

Modifications of StarLine crawlers

Models of crawlers for “signaling” Starline A91, A93 and other variations that can be purchased:

1. VR-03. Using the device will allow you to bypass the standard RFID blocker, making it possible to remotely start the engine. The crawler automatically transmits information in the form of a code from the standard key, which makes operating the machine more convenient and comfortable. The package includes a processor device, connection cables, and an antenna adapter with a one and a half meter wire. The kit also includes a special loop, the diameter of which is 6 cm. The service manual specifies technical characteristics and recommendations for connection.
2. VR-06. A more advanced version of the standard blocker crawler. In it, control and transmission of pulses is carried out via a digital encoded channel. This allows for more reliable starting of the internal combustion engine remotely. The VR-06 model is designed specifically for joint use with Starline anti-theft systems. Smart Key format keys are powered by a voltage of 3.3 volts, as a result of which the consumer does not need to periodically replace batteries. One of the features of the device is its versatility, since the device can function with both Smart Keys and traditional ignition keys. It is possible to connect the crawler to any type of reader. .
3. F1 is a joint development product from manufacturers Starline and Fortin. The main feature of the system is the combination of crawler options, as well as a CAN interface with a huge number of auxiliary control outputs. To use the device, you do not need a chip or key, since the control procedure is automatic. This model supports firmware updates via the network, which will expand the list of potentially supported machine models. This device successfully combines the options and capabilities of other blocker bypassers; its connection is possible in more than three thousand models of modern cars. The full list can be found on the company's official website.
4. Fortin Evo Kay. The manufacturer positions this product as an inconspicuous addition to the car, which makes its operation more comfortable and convenient. Thanks to the use of a unique algorithm, the manufacturer ensured that the lineman unlocks the electrical circuits of the power unit to start it, but leaves the steering wheel locked. This provides additional protection for the machine. The module will be no larger in size than a matchbox, which allows for its discreet installation in a car. One of the features is that this engine blocker crawler does not have strictly established points for installation, so the consumer can determine them independently. Among the advantages, versatility should be highlighted - installation of the device is allowed on all modern cars, regardless of the type of ignition system used.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of immo Starline crawlers:

• low price for devices of this quality, which make it possible to protect the engine blocking circuits from hacking;
• effective operation of the device and its productivity;
• after installation, the device is automatically synchronized with the machine’s systems and integrated into its type;
• the presence of the device makes it easier to use the remote engine start function;
• installing a blocker bypass will not in any way affect the operation of security systems and other electronic devices, of course, if the installation is done correctly;
• ease of installation and operation;
• immo crawlers work well with systems equipped with the option of remote starting of internal combustion engines;
• The blocker bypass module can function without constant use of the standard immo key.

The only disadvantages include the difficulties that consumers may encounter when connecting. If you do not have experience in implementing such tasks, then it is better to seek help from electricians.

Why do many motorists choose Starline crawlers?

It is quite possible to make a lineman for a standard immobilizer with your own hands, but this requires certain knowledge, experience and free time. This is why most motorists give their preference to StarLine modules. Their obvious advantages include:

• fairly low cost of devices of this quality;
• productivity and very high quality of work;
• minimal problems in terms of installation and use;
• do not interfere with the operation of other security equipment;
• work together with alarms that have an autostart function;
• can work without constant use of the standard immobilizer key;
• They have a fairly compact and lightweight main unit.

The system is simple, but at the same time it works quite productively, which was the main reason for its enormous popularity. Starline modules cannot be confused with any other devices, because they have a unique design that will easily fit into the overall interior design of any car.

The ability of the modules to work with the RFID security system allows their installation on most modern vehicles. StarLine is a brand of global importance and all equipment of this brand shows excellent results in terms of performance. You can buy such a module at any store that sells equipment for security systems, and if you don’t have enough time for this, you can order it on the Internet. Thus, the system provides convenience in every sense.

Installing the module

Instructions for installing the crawler and its integration into the Starline A91, A93 and other alarm models:

1. Select a location to mount the device. Thanks to the small size of the processor module, the crawler can be installed anywhere in the cabin. Fastening is carried out using self-tapping screws, which are included in the system kit. Installation can be done behind the control panel; to do this, you will need to dismantle part of the lining in the cabin and remove the tidy.
2. Then the housing of the processor unit is opened and a spare key with a mark is installed in it. The flat transceiver must be installed inside. Make sure that the device is fixed as firmly as possible; it is important to prevent gaps and movement of the device while moving. Then the device is connected.

To connect, you need to know the markings of electrical circuits:

1. The red output is a positive power contact; it must be connected to an electrical circuit where there is voltage when the ignition is activated. Therefore, the contact is connected to the lock.
2. The black output is negative and is used as a control input. When a negative pulse arrives at it, the key label is read. This contact must be connected to the output of the internal combustion engine remote start system.
3. There are also several gray cables. The connection diagram for these contacts will differ depending on the characteristics of the machine.

There are several options for connecting the Starline immobilizer:

1. If the connection is made according to the first scheme, then the outer frame transceiver must be fixed to the cylindrical body of the ignition switch. This element is then connected to the output located at the end of the gray wires. Please note that this contact must operate within a minimum distance between the standard antenna adapter installed in the vehicle and the blocker bypass transceiver.
2. Using the second scheme is relevant if for some reason you cannot install a frame transceiver. Then the antenna must be wound on a gray cable and installed on top of the standard transceiver. Installation is carried out on the ignition system cylinder. The distance between the standard antenna and the lineman's transceiver will be minimal, this will ensure high-quality signal transmission.

DIY bypass block

Installing the Starline immobilizer crawler yourself is possible without purchasing a module from the manufacturer. You can assemble this one yourself. List of components:

• plastic body;
• five-pin relay connected to the car wiring;
• standard diode 1N4001;
• cables.

The procedure does not take much time and effort and only requires attention. The device will work in the same way.

The terminals of the relay coil are connected to the diode so that the plus goes to the cathode, the minus goes to the motor start. Reverse polarity is used. The wire from the car alarm and the end from the antenna of the bypass device are connected to the closed contact, and the other end from it is connected to the open contact. That is, the connection diagram for the Starline immobilizer crawler can be used.

The wire from the standard coil is directed to the free contact, the chip is installed in the antenna and secured with electrical tape.

How to use the crawler correctly?

After installing the immobilizer bypass module, it is important to carry out its training procedure so that the bypass module can function without failures.

Lineman training procedure:

1. Turn off the ignition in the car. Find the service key, it can be installed in a hidden place. If you installed the security system yourself, then you must remember where you installed the button. If installation was carried out by specialists, contact them for help in searching. On most Starline models, to enter the training mode, the button must be pressed fourteen times, but depending on the “signal” this nuance may differ. Check the service book for the alarm.
2. Five seconds after pressing, you must turn on the ignition, this will activate the learning function. The bypass system's processing unit will start the information processing mode; this may take the device about five minutes. During the learning process, the siren of the anti-theft system will periodically sound, the signal interval will be three seconds.
3. If the learning procedure is successful, the siren beepper will confirm this with two signals.
4. In the event that the system has failed and the operator training has not been completed, four signals will sound.

Oleg told legazoid how you can start a car engine without a key.

How to make a crawler yourself?

The structure of the blocker bypass module includes active components, but the device body is always made of plastic, even if it is a branded device. This is important, because if the case is made of steel, then the consumer will end up with the effect of a short-circuited turn in the main coil, which is wound around the key. When installing the device, this point must be taken into account; therefore, installing the housing next to metal surfaces is not recommended.

To make the module yourself, you need to find a plastic case, preferably its dimensions should be minimal. Then you will need a regular four-contact relay, designed to operate in a 12-14 volt vehicle on-board network. This element is fixed inside the lineman’s body. When bypassing the standard blocker, a current is switched, the value of which is less than one Ampere. Because of this, any relay can be used, it is important that it can withstand a large number of operations. Take a 1N4001 diode element (available on the radio market) and solder its contacts to the relay taps, but keep in mind that this part is activated in reverse polarity.

Four contacts will come out of the body of the homemade lineman:

1. A two-core cable is used to connect an external coil. Installation of this component is usually carried out next to the ignition switch; this will require removing the trim from it.
2. The power contact must be connected to the negative output, that is, it is connected to the anti-theft complex.
3. A wire with a +12 volt output; power must be supplied to it. We recommend connecting directly to a battery or other electrical circuit where voltage is always present, even when the ignition is turned off.

The “deception” coil is installed next to the lock. This element should include about fifty turns of winding cable. You can use wires from any manufacturer, but thin winding cables will break from time to time.

There are several options to install the device:

• make a coil separately and fix it on the plastic lining of the ignition switch, where the lineman is installed;
• dismantle the protective lining of the lock by disconnecting the electrical plug in advance, and the wire can be wound directly onto the casing.

If you decide to choose the first option, then to implement it it is more convenient to use a regular faceted glass wrapped in electrical tape. At the final stage, the winding is fastened, this will require epoxy resin.

If you decide to choose the second option, the result will be more aesthetically pleasing. Self-tapping screws are screwed into the plastic lining; they must be heated in advance on the stove or with a lighter. And their caps will be used as terminal contacts. A thinner cable is soldered to the surface of these contact elements; they must first be cleaned of plastic residues.