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What does the an illuminated "key" symbol/light on the dashboard mean?

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Old 10-28-2006 | 03:39 AM
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jkm215's Avatar
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What does the an illuminated "key" symbol/light on the dashboard mean?

Hey guys, I have very little car knowledge. Anyway, I was out of the country for a month and my RX8 AT sat idle in the garage the whole time. I tried to start my 8 today but it didn't start, instead I just heard a faint pulsating clicking sound when I turned the key.

Nothing electrical works (no power locks, radio, lights, trunk release), but there is a small key symbol/light illuminated on the dashboard next to the RPM guage. This key symbol/light stays illuminated when the door is closed and locked. Occasionally all the needles of the guages on the dashboard start flickering for a few seconds.

Is the battery dead? I didn't leave the headlights on or door open. Would a call to AAA fix this or do I need to have it towed to the dealer?

-John
Old 10-28-2006 | 03:58 AM
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your battery died!
Old 10-28-2006 | 07:23 AM
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The small key symbol is your Security Indicator Light (owner's manual, pp 5-37 & 5-44)

This indicator light starts flashing every 2
seconds when the ignition switch is turned
from the ON to the ACC position and the
immobilizer system is armed.

The light stops flashing when the ignition
switch is turned to the ON position with
the correct ignition key.
At this time, the immobilizer system is
disarmed and the light illuminates for
about 3 seconds and then goes out.

If the engine doesn't start with the correct
ignition key, and the security indicator
light keeps illuminating or flashing, the
system may have a malfunction. Consult
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
Old 10-28-2006 | 11:16 AM
  #4  
Barry Gross's Avatar
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From: Florida
Assuming you car is still under warranty, you should call Mazda for free towing to the dealership where they should replace your battery or do whatever is required to get you up and running.
Old 10-28-2006 | 04:49 PM
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From: Washington, DC
I guess putting a charger on the battery is out of the question?
Old 10-29-2006 | 07:59 AM
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From: Northern Virginia near DC
Sure, you can put a charger on it just to get going, but he really needs to have it replaced.
Old 10-29-2006 | 09:00 AM
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he might not need it replaced.. i mean he hasnt driven it for a month.. couldve just had something on in the car.. like if he has a radar.. or an ipod charging.. something small over a long period could do it.
Old 03-28-2010 | 04:49 PM
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I know this is old, but it just happened to a friends car. Once the battery is recharged, if this is still happening, what next?
Old 03-28-2010 | 05:03 PM
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Socket7's Avatar
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From: Under the Dumbarton Bridge
Originally Posted by ganseg
I know this is old, but it just happened to a friends car. Once the battery is recharged, if this is still happening, what next?
Push start it.
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