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All warning lights

Immobilizer / Security Light

Informational - status, not a fault

anti-theft light · security system light · key symbol light

What it means

Usually a blinking light with a car and lock or key icon, showing the anti-theft immobilizer system is armed, or flagging that it does not recognize the key trying to start the car.

Common causes

  • Normal armed status when the car is parked and locked (slow blink)
  • Key fob battery running low
  • Chip in the key damaged or not communicating with the immobilizer
  • Aftermarket alarm or remote start system interfering with the factory immobilizer

What to do

If the car will not start and this light is on solid or flashing rapidly, try a spare key. If the issue persists, the key fob battery or transponder chip may need replacing, or the immobilizer module may need diagnosis.

Can you keep driving?

The slow blink while parked is completely normal. If the car starts and drives fine, there is no issue; if the car will not start at all, it will need diagnosis before it can be driven.

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Find a repair shop

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Descriptions are for guidance only and do not replace a workshop inspection. If you are ever unsure whether it is safe to keep driving, pull over in a safe spot.

Related symptoms

This warning light sometimes appears alongside these symptoms:

Related warning lights