97 Mountaineer no start problem

[SwanBay71]

I went to start my 97 Mountaineer and the relay would just click, nothing else. Attempted to jump it with no improved results. While trying to start it, I noticed a few strange things. every now and again a second click could be heard. Also, the auto-unlock would activate the door locks to open while the key was in the start position. While in the on position and in P,D,N or R I cannot lock the doors with the button, but they work at the key pad. Also tried to set off the alarm by setting it with the keypad and unlocking with the key. This used to set off the alarm, but not now. Also, the THEFT light does not come on at all. OK, have at it. Thanks Mikey

 

[firepop5]

Sounds like a super dead battery. Make sure your battery terminals are clean and tight. If they are dirty or loose, a jump won't help. Does the horn or lights work before and while trying to jump?

 

[SwanBay71]

Yeah they worked. I looked at the battery and it is at the end of life so on my way for a new one. After reading all of the PATS problems, figured it might be more....will let you know.

 

[Dan Whitaker]

Yeah they worked. I looked at the battery and it is at the end of life so on my way for a new one. After reading all of the PATS problems, figured it might be more....will let you know.

1997 does not have PATS. PATS started in 1998

 

[SwanBay71]

Thanks Dan,

But it does have the alarm system and keypad. OEM. With new battery and terminal connections, problem remains the same. I am at a loss. Any ideas? Is the theft light suppose to come on at all when you try and start the truck? AND, with the new battery, I just wiped out the codes that could have been read from when this started. Arrrgh.

 

[SwanBay71]

I just noticed that the interior lights go out if I hold it key in the start position along with the temp/Direction display.

 

[ERUSH97XLT]

I just noticed that the interior lights go out if I hold it key in the start position along with the temp/Direction display.

This is normal. Theory is to only energize what is needed for startup in case of a weak battery.

I would check your fuses to everything on the starting circuit (starter, coil, PCM, etc.) Make sure those aren't blown. Also, check your starter relay.

Let us know what you come up with.

Good Luck,

ERUSH

 

[SwanBay71]

Thing was, it seemed like a long delay before they went out. Thing is, the locks activating on their own and the alarm not working now has me crazy. New Battery and terminals with no change.

 

[ERUSH97XLT]

Sounds like this might be a RAP module issue. This controls your alarm and prevents the car from starting if its messed with or triggered. You need a special tool to diagnose it. Ford calls it a New Generation STAR (NGS) Tester.

Anybody out there have experience with this thing?

I would still check your fuses and relay to be certain it's not a simple blown fuse.

ERUSH

 

[SwanBay71]

Fuses and relays next. No codes after turning the key 10-15 times. New battery reset everything. Wish I checked before swapping out the battery.