False intermittent "ignition on" alarm followed by car not starting

OLDPRIMO

MEMBER
1994 FORD RANGER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
160,000 MILES

In the past few weeks, the car would often make the dinging sound meant to indicate that the lights or ignition were left on despite the lights and ignition having been turned off.

When I turn the key absolutely nothing happens. The lights don't come on, the engine won't start, and there is no click. The battery is new and jumping had no effect. What could the problem be?

The car also suffers from a surging idle (it once stalled when I came out of the driveway) but I assume this is a separate issue.

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,961 POSTS

It sounds like you might be facing two separate issues with your 1994 Ford Ranger: the false intermittent "ignition on" alarm and the no-start condition.

Sorry we only handle one problem per thread, please post your new question here, you must be logged in.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new

False Intermittent "Ignition On" Alarm:
The false "ignition on" alarm could be caused by a faulty ignition switch, a problem with the body control module (BCM), or a wiring issue. The alarm might be triggered when there is an intermittent loss of signal from the ignition switch to the BCM, making it think the ignition is still on. This can happen due to worn contacts or a loose connection in the ignition switch.

No-Start Condition:
The no-start issue, where turning the key results in absolutely nothing happening, can have several possible causes:

Dead Battery or Poor Connection: Even if the battery is new, it's possible that there is a poor connection at the battery terminals or a faulty battery cable. Double-check the battery terminals and make sure they are clean and tightly secured.

Faulty Ignition Switch: A faulty ignition switch could prevent the electrical system from receiving power when you turn the key. If the ignition switch is not sending the correct signals, it can cause the car not to start.

Starter Motor or Solenoid: The starter motor may be faulty, preventing it from cranking the engine. Additionally, a bad starter solenoid can also cause a no-start condition.

Neutral Safety Switch: If the vehicle is an automatic transmission, the neutral safety switch might be malfunctioning. This switch prevents the engine from starting in any gear other than Park or Neutral.

Please go over this guide:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem so we can see what's going on.