Q: Flashing lights after battery reattachment

asked by on February 04, 2017

Help My car wouldn't start, the battery was disconnected terminals cleaned battery charged, and put back in. When the battery was reconnected, the blinkers and dash lights flash in a series of three flashes stops then does it again , car won't start even though the lights and chime inside work when the key is inserted. Please I need help the service departments are closed and no one can give me an answer please I'm desperate!

Service Battery/cables $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

The issue is the alarm system (security) is tripped on your vehicle. Try turning the key to the ’ON’ position and locking and unlocking the doors with the key fob remote, that is if your vehicle has a remote. This should disarm the alarm to start the vehicle. If not, then you will need to remove the battery cables and leave them off for 13 minutes to clear the ECM (computer). If you need further assistance with your flashing lights, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What Is a Strut?
A strut, also known as a MacPherson strut, named after Earle MacPherson, the engineer who developed this type of suspension, looks like a big tube-style shock absorber (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-shock-absorber-last) and uses the upper part of the strut as a steering pivot,...
The AC/heat blower fan - 1997 Dodge Avenger
Hey there. The most common failure where the fan only blows on high is the blower motor resistor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/blower-motor-switch-replacement). It is possible the blower motor switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/blower-motor-switch-replacement) is the culprit, and it can be replaced separate of the control module....
Turbo is not boosting - is this fixable?
Hello. If your engine is not boosting properly then it may be related to the actuator. In most cases turbo wastegate actuators should be difficult to move by hand, as they are designed to open up as boost pressure increases....
Check Engine Light and O2 sensor on a used car
Hi there. Assuming the vehicle Check Engine Light is an O2 sensor code does not necessarily mean the O2 sensor is at fault. It could be an electrical fault in the O2 sensor circuit(s). I highly recommend that you have...
Bottom Brake lights not lighting
Hello there, a few common faults will cause your 2007 Chevrolet Colorado to have brake lights that do not illuminate. In many cases the bulbs are the most common failure, these bulbs are dual filament and are responsible for the...
What is the average life expectancy of window motors? Should I file a replacement with manufacturer?
Assuming an "average" number of uses, the normal service life of ANY power window motor and assembly will well exceed the value of 2 years and by orders of magnitude. Therefore, your motor has failed early, there is no question...
Front right tire hangs lower than left tire when placed on jack stands of equal height.
Hello - your RAV4 uses torsion bars instead of springs to suspend the weight of the vehicle. Each wheel/tire carries a different amount of vehicle weight. An alignment adjusts torsion spring force to support each corner of the vehicle to...
Screeching serpentine belt when the a/c is on. Is this a problem with the serpentine belt?
Hi there. There is a problem with the alternator or a/c compressor clutch pulley. Check the pulleys out on each item and see which one is creating a heavy load or a skipping feeling as if the bearing is seizing...
Gurgling noise while brake and pumping feeling in reverse
The intermittent illumination of the Check Engine Light (CEL) should be resolved by getting a CEL Diagnostic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) and then repairing the fault that is identified. Such a diagnostic might provides clues as to the other faults you are writing...

Related articles

How Does the Hazard Switch Work?
When When you experience difficulties while driving like a flat tire, running out of gas, or an unfortunate accident, your vehicle can be immobile at the side of the road or worse, in an active lane of traffic. If this...
How to Start a Car in Cold Weather
Battery, oil, and fuel problems can make a car difficult to start in cold weather. Find out how to prevent starting issues related to weather.
Industry News for Automotive Techs: October 29 - November 4
Toyota and Getaround's smartphone key, future McLaren cars, DMCA car hacking, a fire at Ford's headquarters, and Chevrolet's SEMA 2016 show cars.