2000 Ford Windstar Intermitent no start/theft flashing

[GORBY]

My 00 Windstar sometimes in the morning,sometimes after short drives and leting it sit for little bit would not start, starter isnt making any noise, theft alarm light is flashing. Any ideas?

[DRW1000]

Originally Posted by GORBY

My 00 Windstar sometimes in the morning,sometimes after short drives and leting it sit for little bit would not start, starter isnt making any noise, theft alarm light is flashing. Any ideas?

The theft light on my 99 always flashes when the car is off. If you turn the key to the on position does it shut off? I am not sure of what my vehicle does when the engine is "on" but not running.

If you are turning the key to the start position and you hear nothing then it would seem that the solenoid relay is not getting any power. this could be the theft system or simply a bad solenoid or a break in the circuitry to the solenoid. It could also be a problem with the starter motor or associated wiring.

[GORBY]

The theft light is off all the time, sometimes when i get in the car and turn ignition on the treft light flashes rapidly and i have no start condition. When it starts fine, no light is present.

[zombie13]

Originally Posted by GORBY

The theft light is off all the time, sometimes when i get in the car and turn ignition on the treft light flashes rapidly and i have no start condition. When it starts fine, no light is present.

Tho I have no experience with it, it sounds like the van thinks the key isn't a valid one to start it. The theft deterrent system works based on the key. The system has to find a valid rf signal (I think) coming from the key or it won't allow the van to start.

I'm sure someone with more knowledge can verify or refute anything I have said here, since I am just guessing.

Z.

[SCVanMan]

We had this very same problem today with our 2000 Ford Windstar SEL.

Our problem ended up being the automatic slide door was not shut completely. Our two year old decided it was a good place to cram one of his toys. =)

I haven't tested it yet, but I'm assuming that if the automatic sliding doors are open the van cannot be started.

Just thought that may give you something else to take into consideration.