Hello! My wife has a V reg Sei Sporting with a type 2 blue key (Just the one unfortunately) and the last couple of days has been having problems starting the car. It goes a little something like this.... She puts the key in the ignition and turns its, the code light comes on and flashes. There is a clicking noise from near the ECU in time with the flashes. I've managed to get it to start from a combination of waggling and massaging the key but I don't want to ignore it if I can sort it out easily. I'm assuming either the key is at fault or the immobiliser is. Has anyone had any experience of this that could help out?

It could simply be that the connectors for the induction loop for the immobiliser (a sort of braided cable you'll see under the dash) need cleaning.

Flashing code light means the car isn't protected by the immobiliser. the car should start, you will need to visit the dealer to get the immobiliser re-coded.

First things to check:

ECU Connections for corrosion/dirt
Front loom connectors (front of engine bay above the horn) again for corrosion/dirt.

If your car is SPI and the key fails completely. My chip should sort you out. Alternativly I have an early ECU without the immobiliser or an uncoded Seicento ECU.


Regards, Michael

okay its conked out completely now. I'll describe whats happening and see what you think... Put the key in the ignition, all lights come on as normal and the "code" light then goes off, turn the key and nothing. No spark, just a click. Turn the key back to off and try again and the code light flashes, the rev counter clicks in time with it to about 2k revs and the white relay box next to the ecu (pic1) seems to be the source. Been talking to McKrich about replacing the ecu or chipping it but wanted to clarify that it couldnt be something else simple before commiting to a pretty big job (I'm a total noob at mechanics!) I've seen a set of replacement locks, ecu, keys on ebay but would it be as simple as just replacing the whole lot? Is there a lot of re-wiring involved or just some simple connecting and soldering? Any and all help greatly appreciated!!!

Very late post , i know sorry. I was helping a mate sort his Sei out yesterday seems like the same problem the OP had. Turned out to be a Dodgy earth strap to the right of the engine as you look from the front, closest to the light.

as i say same sort of problem mad clicking from a relay, rev counter moving / going nuts, and yes an earth strap was the prob lol, just thought i'd post incase any others find the same problem, hope it helps