Ever since I needed a jump start, the security light flashes whenever the car is not running, whether it is locked or unlocked. I thought the security light only flashed after the car alarm has been armed. What is wrong?

Does locking the car with the key (not the fob button) arm the alarm? I can't test this since my light blinks whenever the car is not running.

 

Mine starts blinking as soon as the key is removed... Does not seem to matter if the car is locked.

 

Found out from service dep't at dealership that the car alarm is armed no matter what method you use to lock the car, i.e. fob button or key in lock.

Regarding the flashing security light, the pitifully inadequate RX 350 owner's manual says "the indicator light changes from being on to flashing when the alarm is set." I got the impression from this that the light is not supposed to flash unless the alarm is armed.

 

same here....so is my IS....

 

That happened on my RX300 after a battery change. I took it to the dealer and they reset it but never explained the procedure, never happened again.

 

Its not that the alarm is set (that you need to do via the key or door switch) but the disabling device is set after your key is removed form the ignition.

 

The procedure on the RX300, is to insert all the key fobs you have into the ignition cylinder one by one for about 5 secs each, then exit the vehicle and lock it with the key (not using the keyless entry).

^I have to that procedure every time I disconnect my battery, or else the alarm will go off at random times. Like if I lock the door from the inside and shut the door.

 

Can you imagine the deranged engineer who sat around and figured out all these stupid sequences? ...left foot on the ground...turn key twice...right foot on the windshield...turn key once...slap the passenger...remove key...run around the car three times...reinsert key...move seat back and forth five times...turn key.

Congratulations! Now you have programmed the glove box light!