A few days ago, I tried to start my 2004 TBird, after about a week of in-activity. Not only would it not start, but the Anti-Theft system activated (dash lights flashing and horn honking) when the key was turned.
I immediately suspected the battery, as it was 7 years old. So, I charged the battery up with an external charger. The car then started with no problems from the Anti- Theft.
I took the car to my Ford dealer and asked them to test, and if necessary, replace the battery. They replaced the battery with a Ford OEM unit.
HOWEVER, once they tried to start the car again, the Anti-Theft system alarmed and the car would not start. They said they reset the system (using 2 keys) and then the car would start, but the Anti-Theft still alarmed.
So, this is where things stand. They can't de-activate the Anti-Theft system!
Any suggestions?
Could the "new" battery be sub-standard? They say they checked it, but maybe it was on the shelf for a long time. I will ask them for the date code.
Could the Anti-Theft system have been "zapped" by a glitch when the battery was replaced? This system seems quite complex. According to the Service Manual, it has components in the Key-Dash area, the PCM module, the FEM module, and a module behind the seats! It looks very difficult to troubleshoot.
Any help would be appreciated!
Best regards to all,
Doug (Linear)
I immediately suspected the battery, as it was 7 years old. So, I charged the battery up with an external charger. The car then started with no problems from the Anti- Theft.
I took the car to my Ford dealer and asked them to test, and if necessary, replace the battery. They replaced the battery with a Ford OEM unit.
HOWEVER, once they tried to start the car again, the Anti-Theft system alarmed and the car would not start. They said they reset the system (using 2 keys) and then the car would start, but the Anti-Theft still alarmed.
So, this is where things stand. They can't de-activate the Anti-Theft system!
Any suggestions?
Could the "new" battery be sub-standard? They say they checked it, but maybe it was on the shelf for a long time. I will ask them for the date code.
Could the Anti-Theft system have been "zapped" by a glitch when the battery was replaced? This system seems quite complex. According to the Service Manual, it has components in the Key-Dash area, the PCM module, the FEM module, and a module behind the seats! It looks very difficult to troubleshoot.
Any help would be appreciated!
Best regards to all,
Doug (Linear)
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