What does it mean when a car and a lock symbol appear on the dashboard?

[DelMatthew]

The reason for a car and a lock symbol appearing on the dashboard is as follows: When a car and a lock symbol appear on the car's dashboard, it indicates the engine immobilizer system. The engine immobilizer system ensures that the engine can only be started with a system-recognized key. If someone attempts to start the engine with a key that is not recognized by the system, the engine will not start, thereby helping to prevent car theft. Additional information: Most of the control systems in modern cars are managed by electronic units, including the fuel injection system, ignition system, braking system, etc. The technology behind engine immobilization essentially shuts down or deactivates these systems until they are unlocked. Even if someone forcibly activates the starter motor in the engine, the EFI system will not inject fuel, and the ignition system will not function, making it impossible to start the car.