Launch X431 scanners offer various Immobilizer (IMMO) functions, primarily through dedicated IMMO tools like the Launch X431 IMMO Plus and Launch X431 IMMO Elite, which are often paired with the X-PROG 3 advanced immobilizer and key programmer [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]. These tools are designed to address a wide range of anti-theft and key programming needs for automotive professionals.

According to www.iAsk.Ai - Ask AI:

The core IMMO functions provided by Launch X431 devices include:

• Key Matching and Programming: This is a primary function, allowing users to add new keys, delete lost keys, and perform key learning and matching for various vehicle brands [2] [5] [6] [7] [8]. This includes support for all keys lost scenarios [3] [5] [6] [7]. Specific capabilities extend to key chip reading and writing, remote control matching, and generating transponders [1] [5] [6]. For instance, the IMMO Plus and Elite can handle key matching for Ford, GM, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, VW/Audi, Porsche, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, and many other brands [5] [6] [7].
• IMMO ECU Module Replacement and Cloning: Launch IMMO tools support the replacement and cloning of immobilizer-related Electronic Control Units (ECUs) [2] [5] [6] [7] [8]. This is crucial when a module is damaged or needs to be replaced, allowing for the transfer or creation of anti-theft data [5] [6]. This includes support for engine and gearbox ECU cloning for a wide range of models and brands like Bosch, Siemens, and Continental [5] [6] [7] [8].
• Anti-theft Password Reading (PIN Code Reading): These devices can read the anti-theft password or PIN code from the vehicle, which is often required for key matching and module replacement procedures [2] [5] [6] [7] [8]. This function is available for brands such as Peugeot Citroen, GM, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, and more [5] [6] [7].
• Anti-theft Type Identification: The X-PROG 3, a common companion to Launch IMMO tools, supports identifying the anti-theft type of a vehicle [1].
• EEPROM and MCU Reading/Writing: For advanced key programming and module cloning, the tools can read and write data from EEPROM and Microcontroller Unit (MCU) chips, including those in engine and gearbox ECUs [1] [5] [6] [7].
• Specialized Functions for Specific Brands: Launch IMMO tools offer advanced functions tailored for specific car manufacturers. Examples include:
  • VW/Audi: Support for MQB platform engine and gearbox ECU replacement or cloning, including reading data directly from the key [5] [6] [7] [8]. They also support fourth-generation UDS engine ECU reading, writing, and cloning, and fifth-generation gearbox ECU replacement [5] [6] [7] [8]. Recent updates include MQB NEC35XX and RH850/V850 5A key programming [6] [7].
  • Mercedes-Benz: Functions include key matching (FBS3), calculating passwords for key addition and all keys lost scenarios (FBS3), erasing engine and gearbox data (FBS3), and cloning engine and gearbox modules (FBS4) [5] [6] [7]. Infrared key reading/writing is also supported [6] [7].
  • BMW: Support for key matching, reading and writing ISN codes, cloning Siemens engines, and erasing/cloning 6HP/8HP gearboxes [5] [6] [7]. Recent updates in April 2025 added key adding functionality for BMW G Series BDC2 [6] [7].
• Integration with X-PROG 3: The X-PROG 3 is a crucial component that extends the IMMO capabilities of Launch X431 diagnostic tools, enabling advanced key programming and immobilizer functions [1] [2] [5] [6] [7] [8]. It handles tasks like chip reading/writing, key generation, and ECU cloning [5] [6] [7].
• Software Updates and Coverage: Launch regularly provides updates to expand vehicle coverage and add new IMMO functions [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]. The IMMO Plus and Elite typically come with two years of free updates [3] [4] [6] [7]. These tools cover a wide range of vehicles, including over 100 brands for anti-theft functions [2] [5] [6] [7].
• NASTF Authorization: For users in the United States and Canada, it is necessary to log in to a NASTF VSPID account to use IMMO functions, ensuring compliance with industry standards [7].

While the IMMO Plus and IMMO Elite are specialized for immobilizer functions, the IMMO Plus offers additional capabilities such as ECU coding, advanced system diagnostics, active tests, and guided functions, which are not present in the IMMO Elite [5] [6] [7] [8]. Users can upgrade an IMMO Elite to an IMMO Plus by paying the price difference [5] [6] [7].

Answer Provided by iAsk.ai – Ask AI.