Engine will not crank and the instrument cluster does not turn on?

Tiny
ALEXALEXA1EX
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 223,000 MILES
Every time I try to start the car it won’t start. I turn the ignition on, but the instrument cluster won’t power on, but the radio powers on. In need of help. Triple A said is probably my starter which I don’t believe. Can someone help?
Saturday, September 24th, 2022 AT 12:47 PM

9 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,334 POSTS
Hi,

The starter itself won't prevent the cluster from powering up. You indicated the radio turns on. Do other electrical components that are powered via the ignition switch work? For example, do the turn signals work with the key on? Are you able to turn on the blower motor?

As far as the no start, do you hear a click or anything when trying to start it? Also, is the battery fully charged? Here is a link that explains how to load-test the battery at home without using any tools. Try this so we can eliminate the battery as a possible issue.

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

Let me know what you find and any information you feel may be helpful. For example, have you been experiencing any other electrical issues?

Take care,

Joe
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Saturday, September 24th, 2022 AT 10:38 PM
Tiny
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Hey Joe,

When I turn the ignition, I do hear a click, but it doesn’t crank. The instrumental cluster is not powering on. Radio works, Headlights work, Turn Signals work, Windshield wiper works, and A/C works. The battery is brand new which I purchased it like 3 months ago. I tried to jumpstart with another car, and it didn’t work. Even Triple A tried to jump it too. Triple A said it might be my starter which I don’t believe. Thank you for replying.
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Sunday, September 25th, 2022 AT 6:29 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,334 POSTS
Hi,

If there wasn't an issue with the cluster, I may say the same thing, the starter. However, I suspect it has something to do with the PATS system. (Passive anti-theft system). By chance, do you have a spare key you could try?

If not, do you have access to a scan tool that can communicate with the anti-theft module?

Let me know.

Joe
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Sunday, September 25th, 2022 AT 6:24 PM
Tiny
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Hey Joe,

I don’t have a spare key or a scan tool.
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Sunday, September 25th, 2022 AT 6:27 PM
Tiny
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Hey Joe.
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Sunday, September 25th, 2022 AT 6:30 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

Yep, I see what you are dealing with. At this point, I have a feeling it is related to the PATS, but I can be sure without testing the pats system. I need a scan tool that can communicate with all modules to do that.

Is there anyone you know that could lend one to you? Sorry to keep asking, but at this point, we need one.

Let me know.

Joe
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Sunday, September 25th, 2022 AT 7:10 PM
Tiny
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Hey Joe,

Do you think AutoZone will lend me their scanner? I live like 2 blocks away from AutoZone.
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Sunday, September 25th, 2022 AT 7:41 PM
Tiny
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Hey Joe,

I think it’s not the anti-theft system if it is, would the red-light blink fast? It’s not blinking but staying red.
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Sunday, September 25th, 2022 AT 8:03 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

If the light is flashing or solid and doesn't turn off, it is likely related. What happens is this. If the light doesn't turn off or flashes, the fuel injectors and, or the starter will become inoperative. If it turns off, it isn't the PATS system. If I understand correctly, in this case, it doesn't turn off.

I'm sorry. I wish I had a better answer and believe me when I say I've been wrong in the past and will be again in the future. However, this is where I feel we need to start.

Joe
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Sunday, September 25th, 2022 AT 8:55 PM

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