Transponder chip not working. PROTON Jumbuck Pickup

Looks like your Proton Arena (a.k.a. Jumbuck in South Africa) has a classic immobilizer chip issue because your keys are physically damaged by the doggos (those pesky pups really do love a chew toy!). Since you can still turn the key and switch on the car but it won’t start or deliver fuel, the chipped transponder in the key is likely not communicating with the immobilizer system.

Where is the immobilizer located and how to bypass?
- The immobilizer system in the Proton Arena is integrated with the car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) and the transponder reader coil (antenna) around the ignition barrel (where you insert the key). This coil detects the chip in your key and sends the signal to the ECU to allow starting.
- The exact immobilizer control module and antenna coil are usually located behind the steering column near the ignition switch.
- The immobilizer’s job is to prevent the engine from starting unless the correct transponder chip is recognized.

Bypass options and troubleshooting:
- Without a working key with a good transponder chip, starting the car is tricky because of the immobilizer.
- Some people try to hold a working transponder chip close to the ignition barrel (even if it’s off the key) while turning the key to trick the system—this can sometimes work temporarily if you can get a chip separately (like from a locksmith or donor key).
- The more permanent "bypass" involves either:
- Reprogramming or replacing the immobilizer ECU and matching new keys (usually done with special diagnostic/key programming tools).
- Physically disabling or bypassing the immobilizer system by cutting wires or modifying the ECU, but this is complex, often illegal except in emergencies, and not recommended because it disables anti-theft security.
- Professional locksmiths with key programming tools (like Xtool or VVDI devices) can create new keys by programming the chip to the car’s immobilizer and sometimes reset or replace immobilizer modules if faulty.

- Some online guides mention trying repeated locking/unlocking with the remote or checking for flashing security lights on the dash as immobilizer reset steps, but in your case with broken keys, that likely won't help; the immobilizer doesn't get a correct chip code and won't allow fuel injection or cranking.

What to do now:
1. Get a professional locksmith or automotive electronics specialist who can cut and program new keys with the correct transponder chips to your Proton Arena.
2. Discuss with them the possibility of reading the immobilizer data from your car’s ECU to program new keys.
3. Avoid DIY immobilizer bypass unless you are very confident with car electronics and legal considerations, as it can cause more problems or legal issues.

So yeah, it’s a tricky spot, but the best bet is to put your chewed keys aside and get new programmed keys from a specialist. Meanwhile, keep the pup away from any new key attempts—unless you want your car to double as a chew toy!