Alarm system reset instructions needed

Tiny
WALTON55$
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 FORD ESCORT
  • 4 CYL
  • 4WD
  • MANUAL
  • 134 MILES
I'm trying to reset my alarm system on my car listed above LX model, but I don't have no key fob. Everything is manually. What should I do?
Tuesday, December 22nd, 2020 AT 2:03 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,873 POSTS
The alarm should be turned off by unlocking a front door with the key. If that doesn't work, it is possible the switch inside the door is defective, but a much better suspect is broken or frayed wires between the door hinges. That occurs on the driver's door first, so you might have better luck at the passenger door.
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Tuesday, December 22nd, 2020 AT 2:42 PM
Tiny
WALTON55$
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Okay, so trying using the passenger door but my alarm still blinks. My mechanic install my new battery in my alternator and starter good. He said he said it not coming on because my alarm system. Need to be reset and the alarm just goes off but he un-stalled the alarm so it won't start off again.
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Tuesday, December 22nd, 2020 AT 4:09 PM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
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I'm sorry that I gave you incorrect information. This alarm system is different from most systems. In fact, the key in the door will not turn the system off.

The next question is how did it get turned on if you don't have a key fob? If you recognize what normal flashing of the dash light looks like when the system is activated, and it's flashing faster now, that would indicate the computer detected a problem and set a diagnostic fault code. You'll be able to see the types of things it looks for, and the tests to diagnose the system, in the charts below. I know this isn't going to help you a lot, especially since these all require the dealer's scanner. Many aftermarket scanners should also be able to read any diagnostic fault codes. Those don't tell you what's wrong. They only indicate the circuit that needs further diagnosis. If you read through these tests, you can do most of the tests yourself with a digital volt/ohm meter.

If it will help, here's a link to an article on how to use a voltmeter:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

They're using a fairly expensive "auto-ranging" meter here. You can find a perfectly fine, less-expensive one at Harbor Freight Tools for around $8.00 or less. I can help you set it up if necessary.

The advantage you have is there's only a half dozen circuits to test. There can be three or four dozen for Engine Computers which makes it impractical to diagnose problems without fault codes to get you started.

Consider disconnecting the negative battery cable first. Wait at least five minutes, then reconnect it and see if the alarm reset. That should erase any fault codes unless there is a constant defect being detected such as would be caused by a broken wire or defective switch.
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Tuesday, December 22nd, 2020 AT 4:55 PM

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