Engine will not crank over

1998 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
147 MILES
Avatar
JESSEBKNAPP
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
When I put the key in and turn it a few of the items on the gauge cluster works, but the car will not start. also, there is a clicking noise coming from the ECU area. The fuel gauge works. There is a clicking noise coming from the ECU.
Dec 17, 2011 at 7:08 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
MERLIN2021
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 17,250 POSTS
What is the security light on your dash doing? Turn key on, it should say on for two to three seconds, then go out, 1998's had an issue with the instrument cluster and the PCM, a wiring kit is installed to solve it. But it could be a low battery here is a guide to confirm it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Please run down this guide and report back.
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
JESSEBKNAPP
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
I just went out and checked the light. If I turn the key one position forward it continuously blinks every few seconds (not a fast blink). If I turn the key two positions forward the light does not do anything. Also, if I turn the key backwards I receive the same type of blinking as if I turned it to the first position I explained. Reading the response you gave me I think it may be the transceiver module. any comments on that? And also is this something I could do on my own?
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
MERLIN2021
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 17,250 POSTS
Not unless you have the Ford super star tester to program the new module into your car. When you say the light does not do anything, I need to know if when the key is out of the ignition, it blinks every two to three seconds, then what it does when the key is turned to the run(on) position.
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
MERLIN2021
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 17,250 POSTS
Also, does it crank or not?
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
JESSEBKNAPP
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Hey merlin2021, thanks for all your help. I just checked it and when the key is out of the ignition the light has the same blinking pattern as I mentioned before (every few seconds continuously). And no it does not crank. a few times when I turn the key all the way as if I was cranking it I have heard a few different noises from under the steering wheel area.
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
MERLIN2021
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 17,250 POSTS
Check the battery and cables, Town Cars need at least twelve volts in the battery to crank even 11.6 wont do it. also, check ignition and PCM fuses with key in the run (on) position the light should stay on steady for two to three seconds, then go out, then it can start. If the light does anything else let me know.
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
JESSEBKNAPP
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Wow! Thank you! :) I looked closer at the battery terminals and they were very corroded so I went to Advance and got some new ones put them on and she started rite up! Thank you so much merlin2021! You saved me a lot of money. God bless you and Merry Christmas!
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
MERLIN2021
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 17,250 POSTS
You are welcome, and Merry Christmas to you too!
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
CJ MEDEVAC
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 11,004 POSTS
You are the man MERLIN2021!

The MEDIC
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
SEAN1989
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
MERLIN2021 I have 1998 Lincoln town car it cranks but wont start I replaced the pcm and had the key reprogrammed and I still dont have power at my crank sensor or spark
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 54,354 POSTS
When you turn the key to the on position without cranking the engine over can you hear the fuel pump run in the tank for 5 seconds? We need to check the fuses and the PCM power relay here are two guides and the location of the fuses and relay.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.
Feb 22, 2021 at 8:35 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.