Have you gotten into your car and recently noticed a lock symbol? You may be wondering what does a car with a lock symbol mean for a chevy. While this may seem like the first time you’ve seen the light it is a normal feature of the car.
What does a car with a lock symbol mean for a Chevy? This car and lock light are there to indicate that your car has a security feature. It can mean that your car has a security system or a device that disables the vehicle if the key isn’t close.
Why does it have a light?
The light can deter thieves from trying to steal your car. If they see the light it will show that they won’t be able to start the car without the key fob. Usually the key fob has a microchip which sends out a signal to your car.
When your car verifies that the key is inside the vehicle it will allow you to start the car. Otherwise your vehicle will be immobilized.
What is an Immobilizer?
An Immobilizer is a device that prevents someone from being able to start the car without the key. If the immobilizer doesn’t detect your key nearby it will prevent your car from being started. This is a standard feature in most newer cars.
How do I turn the car with a lock symbol off?
If you key is nearby and you try to start the car the lock symbol should turn off. By having the key with you when you start the vehicle the computer will recognize that the fob is close and it should turn off the light.
My key fob is close but my car with a lock symbol is on
There could be a few reasons why the symbol won’t turn off. The first place to check is the key fob battery. If your key fob battery is bad your car might not be able to detect the chip inside. In this case you won’t be able to start the car without replacing the battery.
Another part that can go wrong is the key fob itself. If you’ve recently got it wet or dropped it the internal chip could be damaged. If the chip is broken it won’t be able to successfully communicate with the car. If this is the case you’ll have to get the chip replaced.
What does it mean if you have a car and lock symbol on your dashboard and your car wont start?
If your car won’t start and you have have the car and lock symbol on your dash the best thing to check is the key fob battery. More than likely the internal battery has run out of juice and your car can no longer detect it’s signal.
If you have replaced the battery and you’re still getting the same issue your key fob could be bad. If the microchip inside is damaged it won’t be able to communicate with your car. If the car can’t see the key fob then it might stay disabled.
Another component that can go bad is the immobilizer. If the Immonilizer is bad it will prevent you from starting your vehicle. While the isn’t the most common cause of no-starts is can happen. If you’ve tried the two options above and nothing worked you could have your mechanic look at your immobilizer.
In closing
What does a car with a lock symbol mean for a Chevy? It means that your vehicle has a security feature which disables the car if the key isn’t present. Be sure that you carry your key with you to prevent the light from coming on.
If you have the key and the light hasn’t turned off then you may need to look into replacing your key fob or its internal battery
