Expert: INSTALLSUPPORT - 9/18/2007

Question
QUESTION: I have 2000 Dodge Durango R/T w/ factory alarm ("Security" dash light, horn, lights flash, etc.)
It just started this problem (first intermittently, now constant.
When attempting to start it, it doesn't turn over, just makes the single "click". All accessories work, no dimming when attempting to start, Voltage gauge reads okay, etc. I have cleaned the battery posts & terminals to no avail.
Typically, I would look to the starter, but I first wanted to ask if perhaps the anti-theft system is causing this problem. I can't seem to find definitive info on whether there is a starter disable and/or ignition kill feature in the factory alarm.
Also, I've tried using the key in the driver door to disarm/reset, turning the steering wheel, moving the shifter (and transfer case) in and out of gear, as well as disconnected the battery (to clean terminals).
The remote seems to work fine, but it still won't start. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

ANSWER: Hmmmm, the click part usually denotes this being
an aftermarket starter kill relay, attatched to
an alarm system.

Look under the dash area for a button or, a toggle
switch. When you locate it, turn on the ignition
key, press and hold in the button (little
spring loaded micro button, red or black possibly)
until the alarm chirps 1 time. This should over ride
the system, and only the keyless entry part,
if installed, would still be operating.
The LED (light emiting diode) light in the dash
should also go on solid.

At this point. the alarm would have reset.
If this had a starter kill relay installed,
it would now be opened, and the engine would
turn over when tried.

You would repeat these steps to go back to
user mode to see if this was corrected.

Also, to answer the question you asked in part,
this truck has a factory system that is also part
of the locking module.

It arms and disarms when the doors lock and unlock.
There is no single wire you can disarm it with.
So by putting the key in the drivers door, turning
left then right to disarm and unlock, you will have
done what you could. The alarm is a noise generator
(car horn) & light flasher (headlights) but doubtful
it had starter disable capabilities in the year Durrango.

Let me know what you discover, & what worked.

ALARMTEK
CARALARMMAN.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your prompt response! I was unable to find any such button or switch anywhere under the dash. Although I bought this truck used, I'm fairly certain that the alarm system is stock (unmodified). There are no LED's or evidence to indicate any aftermarket add-ons.
If indeed this year wasn't equipped with a starter disable feature from the factory, then I'm guessing that the actual starter may be the problem... Would you agree or is there anything else that might be causing the problem (alarm-wise, at at least)?
Again, Thank you for your help... being stranded sucks and your promptness is greatly appreciated.

Answer
Sure, but here's the thing...
  I would not be so quick to blame the starter.
Drop the under panel and inspect the ignition
switch harness to see if there is anything aftermarket
(wiring, undue or excess wiretied boxes etc...)

If not then you can always test and replace the starter.

Keep looking though.

A.