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Warning lights

Key / immobilizer light

The car does not recognise the key, or the key fob battery is low.

Urgency:Safe to keep driving

Is it safe to keep driving?

If the car started, yes. If it will not start, the car has not recognised the key.

Likely causes

  • Key fob battery flat
  • Key not in range
  • Damaged transponder chip
  • Immobilizer antenna fault

Typical repair cost (US)

$5 – $400

A fob battery at the low end; a new programmed key at the high end.

A typical range, not a quote. Actual cost depends on the car, the shop and the fault.

What to do now

  1. Try the spare key.
  2. Hold the fob against the start button or the marked spot on the steering column — most cars have an emergency reading position.