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Chrysler Repair/1997 Chrysler Sebring Convertible: no start/alarm

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Expert: - 7/19/2011


Question
My wife locked the car and then came back and instead of using the key she reached in and unlocked door by hand setting off alarm and after deactivating alarm by unlocking passenger door with key the car wont start. I was told by Chrysler mechanic to let it sit and it will re-calibrate itself. Any other suggestions? Thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Scott,
Is the symptom that it starts and only runs for a couple of seconds, which is an alarm not disarmed situation OR does it absolutely refuse to catch at all? If the latter, try for fault codes using the ignition key:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on"  doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then either watch the odometer window for the mileage to be replaced by a 4-digit number preceded by a P or for the check engine light to flash, pause, flash, etc. Count the flashes before each pause and tell me the results.
It starts but dies in3 seconds, then try the lock/unlock on the driver door. And finally try removing the IOD fuse (#5 behind the left end-cap of the dash) and then putting it back in.
Roland

Chrysler Repair

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Roland Finston

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I specialize in Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth cars, minivans, and SUV's for the model years 1982-2008 based upon my 50-year DIY experience, factory shop manuals and wiring diagrams. I offer fast repair advice to help you minimize repair costs by helping you diagnose and do it yourself. Problems with electronically controlled engines and transmissions as well as body wiring problems are my specialty.

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Five decades as a 'do-it-yourselfer' on domestic and imported cars

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Yahoo Autos Group called The Chrysler Lebaron Club (co-moderator)

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Degrees in Physics/bruised knuckles.

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"Top expert of 2010" and "2011" at Allexperts. Among top 50 experts for years 2006-2009 at Allexperts.

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