Immobiliser / security

What it means

A flashing or steady security light while the vehicle is parked often means the immobiliser is armed. If it stays on or flashes while starting, the car may not recognise the key or may have a security-system fault; red is common, but colour and normal behaviour vary by manufacturer.

What the symbol looks like: A car with a padlock, or a key with a padlock, is a common immobiliser or security symbol.

Why it comes on

• The immobiliser is armed while the vehicle is parked
• The key transponder is not being recognised
• The key fob battery is weak
• A damaged or incompatible key
• A fault in the immobiliser, antenna, or wiring

What to do

1. Check the owner's manual to distinguish normal armed behaviour from a fault.
2. Try the spare programmed key if available.
3. If the manual describes an emergency key-detection position, use it as instructed.
4. Replace the fob battery if the vehicle also reports a weak key battery.
5. If the engine will not start, contact roadside assistance or a qualified repairer.

Can I keep driving?

If the engine starts and the light behaves as the manual describes, you can usually drive. If the warning persists or the engine will not start, do not try to bypass the immobiliser; get assistance.