Your car’s security indicator light means there may be a problem with the anti-theft system, especially if you’re not able to turn the car on. First, try turning your car on with a backup key to reset the system.
QUICK LOOK
- In some cars, the security indicator light blinks to show that your anti-theft system is active, but a steady security light could mean problems with your key fob or car battery.
- The security light always includes a picture of a car and a key and usually lights up red or gold.
- If a backup key doesn’t reset your car’s anti-theft system, head to a mechanic or your car’s dealership to reprogram your car keys.
Security indicator dashboard light: What it means
The security light on your dashboard—also known as the anti-theft light—indicates the status of your car’s anti-theft system.
- Flashing security indicator light: In some cars, the security indicator light flashes while the ignition switch is in OFF, LOCK, or ACC to show that the immobilizer and car alarm systems are active.
- Steady security indicator light: If the security light turns on and stays on when the engine is running, there’s a fault in the anti-theft system.
If you can’t start the car’s engine with the security indicator light on, then there’s definitely a problem with your car’s anti-theft system. Here are a few possible causes:
- Car battery failure caused the computer to lose track of your smart key
- Key fob malfunction
- Locking or unlocking issues
The bottom line: A steadily illuminated security light means that your car doesn’t trust the key you’re using to start the car. While the immobilizer security system could have been triggered by an attempted theft, it’s usually a result of a battery problem.
What the security indicator dashboard light looks like
Like most dashboard warning lights, the security light can look different from car to car, but it always consists of two components—a car and a key or lock.
Look for one of these three symbols illuminated in gold or red light:
- An outline of a car with a key in place of the back wheel
- A car head-on linked with a padlock
- A car with a key in the center
Keep in mind: Just like your check engine light and other warning lights, the security light will illuminate briefly when you turn your car on. That’s called a bulb check—it helps you to identify symbols and catch burnt-out lights on your instrument cluster before driving.
How to turn off your dashboard security light
If your security light is on and you can’t turn the car on: Start by trying another key if you have one. In most cases, the security light means that the car no longer recognizes the key you’re using, so you may be able to reset the system by using a different key.
You have a few options if you still get a no-start with the second key and the light is still on:
- Tow your car to your dealership to program a new key for your car.
- Call a trusted mechanic to help you identify the issue and reprogram the anti-theft system.
FAQ
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What does the car lock light team?
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Licensed Insurance Agent
R.E. Fulton is an expert insurance writer specializing in car ownership topics from car shopping and loan advice to insurance and repair guides. R.E.’s mission is to create unique and accessible content that helps readers to become more successful and independent car owners. R.E. has written and edited over 900 high-performing articles for Jerry, with an average of 1 million+ views. As a senior writer on Jerry’s editorial team, R.E. draws on over 10 years of experience as a professional writer and digital publishing specialist. Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team in 2021, R.E. worked as a writing coach at Columbia University, the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and the University of Rochester. They serve as a managing editor for peer-reviewed history publication Nursing Clio, where their work has appeared regularly since 2015.
Pat Roache is an insurance writer with over two years of experience in the automotive industry. With a focus on car insurance, maintenance, and brand reviews, Pat’s mission is to create engaging and accessible content that empowers readers to take autonomy over their car ownership. As a writer and editor with Jerry, Pat has penned over 600 original articles and edited over 1,000. Pat’s 8+ years of experience in the performing arts as a writer, director, producer, and performer lend to their keen eye for research and presentation. Most recently, Pat’s new English translation of Donizetti’s Italian opera “D[x]n Pasquale” had its world premiere in 2022 with Opera MODO (Detroit, MI). Pat also writes grants for an LGBTQ arts non-profit in Chicago, IL.
