Replaced battery and won't start?

162,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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KEVDOGG1
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Car just clicked replaced battery hooked up cables and horn started honking and lights started flashing. Put the key in the door unlocked it got in put the key in the ignition turned to run didn't stop alarm. Tried to start and nothing. Tried the lock unlock with the remote and nothing.
Jan 25, 2026 at 2:41 AM
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KRAKENAUTO
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 107 POSTS
You have likely tripped the immobilizer. Ensure your terminals are tight and not corroded. Do you notice if there's a security light flashing on the dashboard?
Jan 26, 2026 at 12:00 AM
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KEVDOGG1
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
No security light flashing but the dash is flashing horn is honking and hazard lights are flashing. Battery cables are tight and clean.
Jan 26, 2026 at 11:17 PM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,554 POSTS
Okay, disconnect the battery again and do a hard reboot for the system, this video will show you how.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INiDRO5A5MY

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
Jan 28, 2026 at 12:56 AM
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KEVDOGG1
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I have tried that several times with no luck.
Jan 28, 2026 at 1:17 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,554 POSTS
Okay try this

Driver Door ONLY (not passenger):

1. Close all doors
2. Insert key in driver door lock
3. Turn key to UNLOCK position
4. Hold it there for 30 seconds
5. Return to center
6. Lock door
7. Unlock again
8. Try starting

This sends a “valid owner” signal directly to the Body Control Module (BCM)

Let me know what happens.
Jan 28, 2026 at 1:41 AM
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