Why is my car flashing a red car with a key?

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What does the red key warning light do and why is it on?

The red key warning light means there is a security error code. This light illuminates when the vehicle control modules see the ignition turned with a key that is not programmed to the vehicle or when there is an error within the security protocol of the vehicle’s security system.

Common reasons for this to happen

  • Faulty key
  • Dead key fob battery
  • Faulty key antennae
  • Faulty control module
  • Electrical interference

Can I drive with the red key warning light on? (Can I drive in Fail-Safe Mode?)

In most cases, the vehicle will not start when the red key warning light is illuminated. It will have to be towed to a repair facility capable of programming and servicing the security system of your specific vehicle.

How do I fix a red key warning light?

  1. Replace the key fob battery 
  2. If the concern persists, you will have to tow the vehicle to a repair facility capable of servicing your vehicle’s security system.
  3. Another option is to have a mobile key programmer to come to you and service the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes the red key warning light to come on?

  • In some cases, this can be caused by aftermarket keys being programmed to the vehicle. They don’t always retain the memory the way a dealership key will. 

My car wouldn’t start and the red key warning light was on but now it does, what’s wrong?

  • In some cases, if there is a loose connection in the system it can cause an intermittent failure. Check the physical appearance of your keys. If the keys show signs of damage or wear they may need to be replaced.

Why is my car flashing a red car with a key?

At FIXD, our mission is to make car ownership as simple, easy, and affordable as possible. Our research team utilizes the latest automotive data and insights to create tools and resources that help drivers get peace of mind and save money over the life of their car.

Why is my car flashing a red car with a key?

At FIXD, our mission is to make car ownership as simple, easy, and affordable as possible. Our research team utilizes the latest automotive data and insights to create tools and resources that help drivers get peace of mind and save money over the life of their car.

The flashing key -- or sometimes a car outline with a key inside of it -- is the security indicator light. This light flashes when the ignition switch is placed in the OFF, LOCK or ACC position. The blinking security indicator light indicates that the security system(s) equipped on the vehicle are operational.

The Nissan Anti-Theft System and the Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System us this flashing key image to relay information to the driver about either the doors being unlocked or about the key itself. Fixing a concern with this light occasionally requires maintenance at a repair shop. The key sign on a Nissan Serena can be:

  • red
  • green 
  • solid or flashing. 

The dashboard light flashes a red key sign when the car is off and the doors are unlocked, while a solid red key illuminates if the car is off with the doors locked. A flashing green key sign appears if the battery in the key needs to be replaced. After replacing the battery, a simple relearn procedure must be performed. The illuminated red key sign with the ignition off informs the driver and passengers if the doors are locked. This light draws minimal current and will not drain the battery. The light is simply a normal communication function on the Nissan Serena.

Tips

If the Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System is malfunctioning, the light will remain on while the ignition switch is placed in the ON position. If the light remains on and/or the engine will not start, see a Nissan dealer for service as soon as possible. You should bring all registered keys that you have when visiting the Nissan dealer for service.

By Tsukasa Azuma

Last updated Dec 28, 2020

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Automobile manufacturers install numerous lights in the vehicle for a better driving experience. There are usually LED lights on dashboard for alerts. Some lights are for normal alerts while others require immediate reaction. These lights make the driver aware of something wrong in the vehicle. The light starts to blink continuously to get attention. The cars have red, orange, and white color lights for different purposes. A red light blinking in car works as the security indicator. It is the emergency alarm light that keeps the vehicle safe from theft.

Let us know a little more on the topic below.

What Is The Purpose Behind Red Light Blinking In Car?

The security alarming light blinks continuously even when the vehicle is OFF. The flashing red light is a security light to keep things safe. There are other blinking red LED lights on the dashboard as well. Other color LED lights also come active when the door is left open. Faulty switches or something wrong with the engine can also turn the lights ON.

The red light blinking in car is of the anti-theft system. Most of the manufacturers install this system in the vehicles these days.  It is also referred to as the immobilizer system as well. It is imperative to have the immobilizer system in the car. The system comes active once you lock the vehicle. It is an ideal safety feature in the automobiles. The red light constantly blinks for hours for the protection. The active alarm system comes handy in case of a break-in.

Why is my car flashing a red car with a key?
The red light blinking in car is of the anti-theft system (Photo Source: pixabay)

     SEE MORE:

  • Wondering How to Disengage Anti theft System? Know the Process Here
  • How to Avoid Car Theft? The Effective Ways

How Red Light Blinking In Car Is A Top Safety Feature?

Keeping the red alert blinking light in good shape is necessary. Take the vehicle to the service station immediately if the light is OFF or is continuously ON. The immobilizer system might not be working properly. Or there can be a fault with internal switches or wiring. The red light on dashboard stops blinking when you turn on the ignition. The vehicle sirens come active in case of theft. The engine will not start at any cost. A vehicle stops taking the ignition if anyone tries to start the vehicle unusually.

Some cars have a blue blinking light on the dashboard as well. Red color alerts the thieves to stop making wrong attempts to open the car. According to the expert maintenance tips, replacing the faulty system comes truly handy. It is the best way to keep your vehicle safe from bad guys.

Why is my car flashing a red car with a key?
Some cars have a blue blinking light on the dashboard as well (Photo Source: anpadeh)

The Final Words

There you have it! The red light blinking in the car offers protection to the vehicle. It keeps things safe and alerts the thieves to stop getting in. One should keep an eye on the blinking lights. It is essential to repair or replace the faulty components for better maintenance.