We had to replace the module that is supposed to recognize the key computer chip -- it actually happened twice to her. The first time it had all the symptoms you had -- the second time it "stuttered", then wouldn't turn over, and then suddenly caught. We took it back and they said that the connection to the module was corroded and cleaned it up. She never had problem after that. The problem wasn't the key, it was the module that mates to the key.

quote:

ORIGINAL: JimC

A similar thing happened to my wife's Focus. The key has a computer chip inside and in her car the computer didn't recognize her key.


interesting....how did you end up resolving the situation?! It doesnt make sense, though cause ive been using the same key now for more than a yr

< Message edited by gabeh1018 -- 5/12/2006 10:19:14 AM >

 

do you think its realy that?!?!? or is it just a dead battery??? cause i hope it isnt what you said.. i really dont want to deal with the dealer

 

3 hours since your first post and you haven't even slapped the jumper cables on the vehicle yet? It ain't rocket science ya know...

 

same thing happened to me... reach under dash push red button that resets the fuel shutoff... itl start right up

 

I'd disconnect the battery cables for a bit then put them back on and try to start and see what happens

 

If it doesn't start with a battery jump or hitting the fuel reset, then you probably need to have the dealer look at the computer module. I don't recall how much it was to fix it because it was covered under warranty on her car. But ... her symptoms were exactly the same as you described, and we had to have it towed to the dealer because there was no way to start it even with a jump - once the module doesn't recognize your key (and the flashing theft alarm was one of the clues according to my dealer who has been great by the way) it won't start because the system sees it as a key from another vehicle and assumes someone is trying to steal your car so the starting system is disabled.

 

Dead battery....before you jump it, Disconnect the cables, get some flat ginger ale soda & gently pour it over the terminals...this will eliminate any corrision that may be there....gently dry it, attach cables jump the girl & away u go!

Could be a bad altenator not charging thus causing your battery to die as well...check your belts make sure they are not slipping or stretched

 

no need to be a jerk.. i had been at work while i was posting... this happened at 930 this morning and i had to get a ride to work since i didnt have the time to b.s. with the car..... but since then i just jump started the car and everything is working fine now.. i think i need to upgrade my battery since there is alot connected to it now...

 

man we all need to take a breath here today.

 

Glad it worked out man.