Hey guys, my car won’t start, and there’s this little light on the dashboard that looks like a car with a lock on it. Does this mean the engine is locked? How do I fix it? 
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Hey, let me try to help. When you take the key out of the ignition, does the lock light blink every few seconds? And when you turn the key to the “on” position (just before starting), does the light go solid or blink really fast? Also, are your headlights bright? If you try to start the car, do the lights stay bright, or do they dim? Does the engine make any noise, or does it just do nothing? Let me know 
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Hey So, the light goes solid when I almost start the car. The headlights seem fine and stay the same. When I try to start it, the engine just makes a clicking sound. Yesterday, I accidentally turned the key off while it was in drive, and the brake pedal locked up. After about an hour, it finally started again, but today… nothing. This is the first time I’ve had an issue like this. 
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Ah, got it. Since the anti-theft light isn’t blinking rapidly, it’s not the car’s computer preventing it from starting. The clicking noise you’re hearing usually means the battery might not have enough power. Try turning the HVAC (your heater fan) to full blast and see if it slows down when you try to start the car. If it does, you probably need a jump start. Give that a try, and if it works, you should get the battery checked out. Let me know what happens 
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HVAC? Is that the heater fan? Sorry, I’m not familiar with that term. 
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Yep, exactly. HVAC is just a fancy term for your climate control basically, your heater or blower fan. You’re on the right track 
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Hey, so I think it’s the anti-theft system. Should I disconnect the battery and try again? The manual doesn’t explain how to reset it, and I really don’t want to tow it to the dealership if I can avoid it 
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Wait, are you sure the anti-theft light isn’t flashing rapidly? Also, do you have any other alarm systems installed, either by Ford or aftermarket? Have you tried using the spare key? Sometimes that can help.
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Yeah, the manual says the light can flash or stay solid. Unfortunately, the spare key didn’t work either. I’ll check if there’s another alarm system, but I don’t think there is. 
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Okay, insert the key, turn it to the “run” position (where all the warning lights come on), and leave it there for about 10 seconds. Is the theft light still on? Also, I assume jumping the battery didn’t work? If it’s the PATS (anti-theft) system, it usually disables the starter or fuel injectors, but from what you’re describing, it sounds more like a battery issue. That clicking noise is pointing me in that direction. 
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You were right. The battery was almost dead. We jumped it, and now it works, but the battery’s on its last leg. Thanks so much, you saved us from having to tow it and go to the dealership 
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Glad to hear it. Anytime. Have a great day 