Car will not start after attempting to start it with the key in backwards?

Tiny
SQUIRREL24
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  • 2015 FORD FOCUS
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Hello, my daughter got in her car this morning and tried to start it and she said that she put her key in backwards and attempted to turn it over and realize she put it in backwards, then took it out and put it in the right way and went to go start it, and when she did, she said that it just started clicking at her and that the brakes were locked and now the brake light is flashing at her. Anytime she tries to start it or anytime, she hits the brake pedal and it will not start it just clicks at her and that's it. I tried to add a video and an image, not sure if they loaded or not. If not, I can load them later, I guess maybe.

Edit: I forgot to add that. She said that sometimes the - lights will flicker at her just randomly while she's driving sometimes. Also added picture and a video in a reply to this question here. Sorry it wouldn't let me add it to this for some reason.
Wednesday, October 1st, 2025 AT 6:24 AM

6 Replies

Tiny
SQUIRREL24
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Here is the video (the flashing red light says "brake") and just a picture of the dash with the key on.
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Wednesday, October 1st, 2025 AT 6:31 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Hmm,, I cant hear any noise form the video? My first reaction is a bad battery, how old is it, if it is more than 4 years old I would remove it and take it to the auto parts store where they can test it. Please try the video again with sounds please? From under the hood would be best. Please go over this video as well

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YRW8fyNudY&t

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
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Wednesday, October 1st, 2025 AT 4:29 PM
Tiny
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There isnt any sound. I was just trying to show where the brake light was flashing when she turns the car on.
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Thursday, October 2nd, 2025 AT 9:14 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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To me it sounds like the battery is bad, I would remove it and have it tested at the auto parts store.
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Tuesday, October 7th, 2025 AT 10:53 AM
Tiny
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Thank you, it was the battery
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Tuesday, October 7th, 2025 AT 10:53 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Thanks for letting us know, we are here to help.
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Tuesday, October 7th, 2025 AT 10:54 AM

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