Alarm keeps going off?

Tiny
JUAMEELAH HENDERSON
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 FORD EXPLORER
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
I own a ford explorer 2002 my car alarm keeps going off. What could be the problem?
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Thursday, April 28th, 2011 AT 1:49 PM

23 Replies

Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,815 POSTS
Such problems are usually due to a door out of adjustment or a missing door switch cap. If any of the door ajar indicator flickers while driving, that should be the door switch to look at. You can pull on each door when the alarm is on as well. The other common trigger would be the hood switch. Check its adjustment. Here is more information:

If the car alarm on your 2002 Ford Explorer keeps going off unexpectedly, there could be several potential causes for this issue:

Faulty or low battery in the key fob: A weak or malfunctioning battery in the key fob can trigger false alarms. Try replacing the battery in your key fob and see if the problem persists.

Door, hood, or trunk sensors: The alarm system includes sensors that detect if any of the doors, hood, or trunk are opened or tampered with. A faulty sensor can trigger the alarm. Inspect these sensors to ensure they are clean, properly aligned, and functioning correctly. Also, check if the door, hood, or trunk are fully closed and latched securely.

Faulty or misaligned door, hood, or trunk switches: The alarm system relies on switches located on the doors, hood, and trunk to detect their status. If any of these switches are misaligned or faulty, they may send incorrect signals to the alarm system, triggering false alarms. Inspect and adjust or replace these switches if necessary.

Malfunctioning alarm module: The alarm module itself could be malfunctioning, leading to false alarms. A diagnostic scan tool can help identify any error codes or issues with the alarm module. If necessary, a professional mechanic can further diagnose and replace the module if needed.

Wiring or electrical issues: Faulty wiring or electrical connections can cause false alarms. Inspect the wiring connections related to the alarm system for any damage, loose connections, or corrosion. If any issues are found, they should be repaired or replaced as necessary.

Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as strong vibrations, electromagnetic interference, or sudden changes in temperature can also trigger false alarms. However, these factors are typically less common causes compared to the issues mentioned above.
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Thursday, April 28th, 2011 AT 2:09 PM
Tiny
CJ MEDEVAC
  • MECHANIC
  • 11,004 POSTS
Try manually locking the vehicle and unlock the drivers door with the key, that should reset the alarm.

This guide should help

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-reset-a-security-system

Please run down this guide and report back.

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Thursday, April 28th, 2011 AT 8:56 PM
Tiny
KENNETH D SABOL
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
  • 2001 FORD EXPLORER
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 109,000 MILES
The theft light on the dash is blinking will this prohibit the vehicle from starting? And how can I get it to stop blinking?
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
FIRESTORM
  • MEMBER
  • 17 POSTS
Yes, is is blinking rapidly? Under normal conditions it should flash every 2 seconds. When you turn the key over, but not start it, after 3 seconds the theft light should "prove out".

If it is blinking rapidly you have a problem with the PATS system. You will have to take your vehicle to the dealership to solve this problem. Some locksmiths have the tools to work with it as well.
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
LETAWMS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 1999 FORD EXPLORER
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 200,000 MILES
Went to get my truck inspected and they hooked up whatever the cord is under the steering wheel and after that the car would not start. When you turn the key and all lights come on, the 'theft' light blinks. The theft light has never come on before. All console lights, radio, signal lights, etc come on but the car will not start. Tried engaging then disengaging the alarm; no help. Someone mentioned that there is some sensor thats located in the door panel. Is there a way to disengage the alarm w/o having to take it to a dealer? I hate to have to pay towing charges AND high dealer charges for something that may be simple?
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 107,922 POSTS
If your 1999 Ford Explorer is experiencing issues starting after the inspection, and the "theft" light is blinking when you turn the key, it's possible that the vehicle's anti-theft system has been triggered. Here are a few steps you can try to potentially resolve the issue before resorting to a dealer:

Check the key: Make sure you are using the correct key for your vehicle. Using an incorrect or non-programmed key can trigger the anti-theft system. Try using another key if you have a spare.

Disconnect the battery: Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for about 15 minutes. This can reset the vehicle's computer system, including the anti-theft system. After reconnecting the battery, try starting the vehicle again.

Use a different door: Sometimes, a faulty door sensor can trigger the anti-theft system. Try locking and unlocking the doors using the passenger-side door or the rear hatch. If there is an issue with a specific door sensor, this might bypass it.

Try a different method to start: Some Ford models have a "Securilock Passive Anti-Theft System" feature that requires a specific starting procedure. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual to determine if your model has this feature and follow the instructions to start the vehicle using the appropriate procedure.

Check the PATS fuse: The Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) of your vehicle may have a dedicated fuse. Locate the fuse box and check if the PATS fuse is blown. If it is, replace it with a new fuse of the same rating and try starting the vehicle again.
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
EXPLORER1989
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 1998 FORD EXPLORER
  • 4.0L
  • V6
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 232,000 MILES
Battery has a full charge. When you get in the truck there is no power the anti theft light doesn't come on either. The truck seems to be completely dead. I tried jumping it directly from the battery to the starter and got nothing. Also connected battery charger directly to the battery cables and still got nothing. I have no idea where to from there.
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
OHYEA
  • MEMBER
  • 153 POSTS
Your battery probably has a dead cell? Did you use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery to see if it fully charge? Should be at 12.4v. Places like autozone can test your battery for free.
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
OHYEA
  • MEMBER
  • 153 POSTS
If a battery will not accept charge even from like charging devices then it is most likely a dead cell battery which will require you to buy a new battery.
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,689 POSTS
Follow the smaller positive battery wire to the under-hood fuse box and be sure that connection is clean and tight. That will solve 99 percent of the dead electrical system problems. For the other one percent, follow the smaller negative wire to the body and be sure that one is tight and not rusty.

What you jumped to the starter, and the results, depends on which terminal you're talking about. If further testing is needed, you'll need a test light or a digital voltmeter.
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
JC1
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
  • 1998 FORD EXPLORER
  • 206,000 MILES
Have 98 ford explorer fuel pump went out put new in now the anti theft is blinking. Have done the lock unlock trick to reset and still wont start. Have unhooked battery for 15 mins, put key in outside door left to right and the anti theft is blinking. Car will not start
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
SATURNTECH9
  • MECHANIC
  • 30,870 POSTS
Let's try a hard reboot of the system. Remove the negative battery cable and hold it to the positive terminal this will discharge the capacitors. Here is a guide to yelp you

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-reset-a-security-system

Please run down this guide and report back.
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
JC1
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Yep that worked perfect! I love this site.
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
TONY45UK
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Tony45uk serviced angle crank sensor tested all socket test resistor or for resistance service wasjust a good clean this technician was very ofey my symptom were access to car allowed would turn over but not start antitheft light blinking fuel pump not working now allis well
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
DAN S
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 1997 FORD EXPLORER
  • V8
  • AWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 133,000 MILES
I have a 97 explorer and the theft system alarm will go off on its own, putting the key in the ignition and turning it on has no effect
the only way to get it to stop is to pull the battery cable off, as soon as you put the cable back on it will go off again
any help would be appreciated
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
RANMUCK
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have the same problem, (1998 explorer), I turn the key off and on, then pause in the on position watching each time for the alam light to stay on.
If its blinking, start over again until the light stays on, this means the alarm is deativated, you now should be able to turn the key all the way and the truck should start. Works ever time for me, note, some times it takes me two tries and some times it takes me ten tries. BE PATIENT THIS WORKS. We just live with the problem.
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
KATHY POST
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
  • 1996 FORD EXPLORER
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 99,000 MILES
I had a new battery installed, which messed up my alarm system. The car is now able to start, but there is a grinding metal sound and an electrical burning smell. Local mechanics are not comfortable dealing with the electrical problems so here I am to ask anyone here.

Thanks in advance!
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 107,922 POSTS
Hi:
It sounds like the starter is sticking and hitting the flywheel after starting.

Is the alarm system factor or aftermarket?
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
KATHY POST
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
The car alarm is factory installed, I believe, because the key chain alarm remote has the FORD logo on it. We purchased the car used in '97.
I had to move the car from the driveway, the engine started and I was able to reverse and then drive forward to park it. During this drive the car was smoking and smelling of electrical cords burning. I turned the engine off after and have not been able to get the engine started again.

My battery is now dead and I am unable to try and start at this time.

I would really like to keep this car.

Any suggestions?
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 107,922 POSTS
Where was the smoke coming from?
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Monday, January 13th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM (Merged)

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