P0513
Incorrect Immobilizer Key
The immobiliser system has detected a key that is not authorised for this vehicle. Engine start is blocked. Possible causes are an unprogrammed replacement key, a transponder fault, or a deliberate attempt to start with the wrong key.
- Check engine light: Not always
- Emissions related: No
- Repair difficulty: medium
Common causes
Ordered by how often each turns out to be the cause.
- Replacement key not programmedCommon
- Key transponder defectivePossible
Parts involved
- Immobilizer
- Key Transponder
P0513 is a generic OBD-II code defined by SAE J2012. Exact wording and diagnostic procedure vary by manufacturer and model. Code definitions are drawn from the public-domain OBDex dataset; the workshop notes are our own.