What does a car icon displayed on the dashboard mean?
1 Answers
When a small car icon appears on the dashboard while driving, it indicates that the vehicle's anti-theft system is active. After locking the car, if the icon does not flash, it means the car is not properly locked or there is a malfunction in the anti-theft system; if it flashes, the anti-theft system is functioning normally. The anti-theft device effectively prevents the car engine from being stolen by criminals, enhancing the vehicle's security. The functions of the car anti-theft system are: Automotive electronic anti-theft refers to the use of electronic signal transmitters and receivers to achieve anti-theft functionality. The electronic anti-theft system mainly consists of an electronically controlled remote or key, electronic control circuit, alarm device, and actuator. The key contains a chip that amplifies its signal when near the ignition lock. The anti-theft computer then verifies whether the key is legitimate. If legitimate, the engine can be started; if not, the engine will not start. By locking the ignition switch and prohibiting vehicle startup, the system achieves its anti-theft purpose. Once in "anti-theft" mode, it triggers an audible alarm. If there is an issue with the anti-theft system, it should be repaired at a 4S shop; otherwise, the car is at risk of being stolen. If the car is not used for an extended period, the battery's negative terminal can be disconnected. However, this will stop the anti-theft system from working. Therefore, if the car is idle for a long time, it's beneficial to drive it occasionally for both the car and the battery. Prolonged parking accelerates the aging of certain components. With technological advancements, modern vehicles are almost universally equipped with electronic locks. When the electronic lock is engaged, a flashing red light appears, which is normal. The advantage of electronic locks is that there are no keyholes on the outside of the doors, and the fuel tank cap is also secured against theft. As a result, car thefts have become increasingly rare. Types of electronic anti-theft systems include: key-controlled, remote-controlled, alarm-based, and systems with both anti-theft alarms and vehicle immobilization features. In case of theft attempts, these systems not only sound an alarm but also cut off the car's starting circuit, ignition circuit, or fuel line to prevent the vehicle from being moved.
