09 tested-no transponder-is remote start bypass really needed?

[beemerphile1]

Yesterday I had a key cut for my 2009, it works fine. I started a new thread because I couldn't find where anyone has tested an 09 for transponder.Just to be sure I put the factory fob/key in the house and used my copy to start the car and drive it up and down the drive. Unless the transponder works from 50 feet away it doesn't exist in the 09.So why does the accessory place claim I need a bypass in order to use a remote start? Price with bypass $256, price without $160.He says he doesn't know how it works but it is needed for bypassing the immobilizer. What the H..., what immobilizer?Anyone have info, does it really need a bypass or do I need a different accessory shop?

[gimmegimme]

There seems to be some discrepancy on this issue. I read that someone just got a regular key cut and it worked. When I had my remote starter installed, I tested it without the bypass but it would only crank and not start. So for my car at least, it is required. (My car being Canadian could be the reason.)Take a look at the passenger airbag indicator. Is the word "SECURITY" printed at the bottom with a flashing red light? Does the flashing red light stop flashing when you use your real key? Does it stop flashing when you use your copied key? I've heard someone mention that they don't have the "SECURITY" label on their Vibe at all.Take a look at your real key. Is there a small dot on the flat side of the key near the remote? I heard that is supposed to be the chip on our keys.

[beemerphile1]

Quote, originally posted by gimmegimme »There seems to be some discrepancy on this issue. I read that someone just got a regular key cut and it worked. That's what I did, plain old ordinary metal key.Quote, originally posted by gimmegimme »Take a look at the passenger airbag indicator. Is the word "SECURITY" printed at the bottom with a flashing red light? Nope, no security or red light flashing or not.Quote, originally posted by gimmegimme »Is there a small dot on the flat side of the key near the remote? I heard that is supposed to be the chip on our keys.Nope, no dot on the metal portion. The locksmith had several examples of keys cut open to reveal the transponder. In each example the transponder appeared to be what looked kind of like a small electric coil approximately 1/8" X 1/4" and was located inside the plastic portion at the top of the key.The locksmith told me that none of the Vibes have transponders and that it is probably because it is a Toyota ignition. If the Vibe keys had transponders all the GM dealers would have to buy the Toyota computer equipment to program them. I don't know, I'm just repeating what the locksmith said and he seems knowledgeable. I've been taking my business there for many, many years.

[gimmegimme]

I checked the behaviour of my security light and it stops blinking whenever I have the key in. All evidence points to you not having a transponder.I would see if the accessory shop would be willing to try without the bypass first, and then install it if it didn't work without. If not, go somewhere else.Just out of curiosity, which trim level is your Vibe? I'm wondering if only the higher trims got transponders.

[star_deceiver]

Canadian Vibes (as well as every other new car for the canadian market) come standard with an immobilizer as in at least 1 province, all new cars MUST have installed to be insurable!!! I believe that it was an option on US market vehicles as the base US Vibe doesn't have one!

[beemerphile1]

Quote, originally posted by gimmegimme »...Just out of curiosity, which trim level is your Vibe? I'm wondering if only the higher trims got transponders.Base I know there wasn't any optional security feature on the invoice.