Q: Security light; car won't start

asked by on March 21, 2016

I bought a car with a broken key inside the ignition, and one day I tried to turn the car on and it wouldn't start. So I went and bought a new ignition. After putting the ignition in the car, it still didn't start and the security light is blinking every time I open the door.

Often times when the ignition is replaced the security system will need to reprogrammed to recognize that a component has been legitimately replaced and that the vehicle is not being stolen. I would ask one of the mechanics at YourMechanic to come and diagnose what need to be done to get your car running right again.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Tapping sound near brake pedal.
The clicking noise is one of the relays under the left side of the dash cycling on and off. I have seen aftermarket alarm relays do this and this may be the reason it is killing the battery. Most factory...
Is it my thermostat in my car that is not working?
You are correct, you probably do have an issue with the thermostat. When your thermostat is stuck in the closed position it doesn't allow coolant to run through the engine which is why you have the cooling effect. It will...
Uneven brake rotor wear
Hello. I tried to view the pictures but the link seems to be broken. It sounds like you have two different problems reading the description of the problem. The first is the brake pads (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-pads-replacement) being too tight and binding...
My car keeps shutting off - even with a new car battery
This is most likely due to the alternator not recharging the battery. This is why you lost all the electrical power and the engine dies. All these systems to keep the engine running need electrical power. I recommend having the...
Clicking in motor. Losing power and cutting off while driving. Any ideas?
Hi there. In many cases, a clicking or ticking sound is caused either by a damaged serpentine belt (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/serpentine-drive-belt-replacement) or can be caused by the valves or cylinder head hardware that is not properly lubricated. The fact you're losing power...
Brake lights are not working. replaced brake light swtch still no brake lights. the third brake light the connection was melted at
The first thing to do is to repair third brake light and replace the brake light fuse and then see if the third brake lights work and the lower lights start working? If only the 3rd brake light starts working...
My car has trouble starting first thing in the morning or after sitting around for a while.
Hello, thank you for writing in. If the vehicle's issues are resolved by you pumping the fuel pedal, you will want to look into your fuel pressure. The fuel pump may be starting to fail, and you will need to...
I have a 89 Ranger and im getting gas in the vacuum line to the break booster which is eating thru the rubber
You should check the fuel injection pressure regulator for leaking fuel through the top vacuum port and if it is then replace it. Also replace the brake booster check valve on the brake booster. This should be the cause of...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Nissan GT-R
Sporty, Sporty, fast, aggressive – all those words apply to the 2012 Nissan GT-R. This track-inspired car manages to bring racecar-like performance to the street, and it does so in true Nissan style. Key Features It’s tough to choose specific...
A Buyer's Guide to the 2012 Nissan Titan
With With the 2012 Titan, Nissan continues its march into domestic territory. This model lives up to its name, but it’s also quite impressive inside as well. Even if you are in the market and wouldn’t normally consider a truck,...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Massage Therapist
If If you're a massage therapist, one of the cornerstones of your business has to be that you don’t keep your clients waiting. That means you need a vehicle that’s reliable. You also will have to move your gear, including...