Hi everyone I have a 97 Eddie Bauer Expedition with the 4.6, I just replaced the heater core last week ( removed the dash and all) when I put it back together the truck started fine. I let it sit a few days and went out to use it on Sunday and the battery was dead, not sure what drained it, but I put the charger on it for 20 minutes and went to start it, and it cranked over but wouldn't start. I then noticed the "theft" light blinking like crazy and it won't start. I disconnected the battery for 1/2 hour, like I seen on some posts, but that did not work. I do have a friend that has the OBD scanner from snap on, and I have the owners manuals along with the 2 large factory manuals from Ford on this truck, is there anything we could do to get this thing going without going to the dealer? Right now I am checking things without the scanner because I am off today and he is at work. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

Do you have a second key to try?

If not, only the dealer will be able to program your keys back into the security system. Make sure you bring all of your keys with you.

 

I already tried the other key and same thing.

 

Check the connector and harness that goes to the key cylinder transceiver. Since the dash was out, the connector may be loose or something else in the circuit may have been damaged.

 

I had same issue with theft light blinking... Battery went dead...bought a new battery, problem solved...