What does a flashing padlock mean?

I know this forum is quite old but just in case it is still being read. I have the flashing padlock light but it does not go off when the key is inserted and therefore engine wont start. Does this mean there is a problem with the key or the engine?

arfur
March 2012

i have the same thing, get the flashing padlock symbol and when i insert the key sometimes the heater light wont light up and the engine wont fire until i get this symbol. any ideas what this could be?

Sean
February 2011

the flashing padlock is just to say the immobizer is working it then goes off when you put the key into the ignition as there is a chip located inside the key and a reciever round the ignition barrel. so no it wont flatten your battery and yes its supposed to work like that.

cheekybum1977atyahoo.co.uk
February 2010