What does the small key on the dashboard mean?
2 Answers
Car dashboard small key refers to the anti-theft system indicator light. When the anti-theft system is activated and this indicator light comes on, the car cannot be started. Multiple ignition attempts will lock the engine, also known as engine immobilizer. Classification of anti-theft system indicator lights: Anti-theft indicator lights are divided into original vehicle anti-theft indicators and aftermarket anti-theft device indicators. Function of anti-theft system indicator light: After pressing the lock button on the smart key, the car's anti-theft system activates, and the anti-theft light flashes to remind the owner that the vehicle's anti-theft system is activated and the vehicle is in armed state. Common icons on car dashboards: Door warning, handbrake warning, seatbelt warning, engine self-check, lubricant condition check, ABS system check, airbag check, battery warning and fuel level warning.
Every time I repair my car, I notice such details. The small key icon usually indicates that the car's anti-theft system warning light is on. It could be due to insufficient battery power in the key, causing the car to fail to recognize the key's identity. I've experienced this myself—it happened one cold morning when I tried to start the car, the light was on but the car wouldn't start, which was really frustrating. However, replacing it with a new CR2032 battery solved the problem. It could also be due to damage to the key itself or interference from nearby sources, such as mobile phone signals disrupting the anti-theft system signal. If the light stays on continuously, it's necessary to check if the anti-theft system module might be faulty. It's recommended to try using a spare key first to see if that works. Modern cars all have this system for theft prevention, so remember to regularly replace the key battery during routine maintenance to avoid trouble, and keep the key close to the steering column when starting the car.
