What does the 'key' indicator on the car dashboard mean?
2 Answers
When the car dashboard displays 'KEY', it means the vehicle's computer cannot detect the key fob signal. Solutions: 1. Press both the lock and unlock buttons on the key. 2. Replace the key's battery. Additional information about car key functions: This smart key can emit infrared signals to open one or two doors, trunk, and fuel filler cap, and can also operate car windows and sunroof. More advanced smart keys resemble credit cards - when the driver touches the door handle, the central locking system activates and sends a wireless query signal. After the smart key card responds correctly, the door locks automatically open. The engine will only start when the central processor detects the key card inside the vehicle.
As someone who often tinkers with cars, seeing the KEY light on the dashboard is pretty common. Most of the time, it means the car isn't detecting the key signal. First, try tapping the key and restarting the vehicle. If the light stays on, there's a good chance the key battery is running low. Once, my car acted up like this, and when I opened the key, I found the coin battery was swollen. Replacing it with a $0.70 CR2032 fixed it right away. If changing the battery doesn't help, consider whether the key chip is damp or damaged, or if the car's sensor is acting up. Especially on rainy days, water on the door handle can interfere with the signal—try using the spare key. If that doesn't work, you'll need to drive to a 4S shop to check the fault codes with a diagnostic tool. Don't delay and risk being without a car!
