What's wrong with my 2001ford explorer it won't crank the back windows won't roll up then they did last night it's not cranking as of now and the radio won't play correctly the volume keeps turning up to full blasts and won't stay on one station also the anti theft system seems to be functioning differently the blinking light is faster than usual

SOURCE: 1996 ford explorer anti theft system

Yes I agree it's the 'smart key'. Normally when you buy an explorer new, you will get 3 keys. 1 of the keys is a valet key.
If you were to copy another key that has a smart chip (transponder) in it, the new key won't work until you 'program' the third (new) key. To program it you need the original 2 keys that work.
The only other thing could be that there was a remote start in the vehicle and there could be something wrong with the module that bypasses the transponder. If there is a remote start in the vehicle you might be lucky to some extent if it still works.
If you move the shifter hard and it worked before, like you said, there could also be damage to the wires that goto the key cylinder, the reciever for the transponder in the key. Try having someone hold the key in start and use the tilt wheel, that too will tell you theres damaged wires if it starts.
Unfortunately you probably will have to bring the vehicle to a ford dealer to get additional keys programmed or the damaged part replaced.
It shouldn't cost too, too much. Just be glad you don't have a Saab, replacement key's are $145 Ea!
If your inclined, you can dissassemble the plastic shroud around the steering column and look for damaged wires coming from the black ring around the key down the the connector under the dash.

SOURCE: anti theft dash light is blinking on my 1998 rodeo

I'm assuming its an original alarm or system that came from factory or dealer. When the light blinks is because the alarm is activated. Look underneath the radio the alarm brain might be there. There will be a label on it saying alarm or security system etc. Disconnect the harness to it and try operating your vehicle.

Jun Magno

• 175 Answers
• Posted on Jun 02, 2009

SOURCE: anti theft device for 1997 ford expedition

try using a spare key first

Dennis Saunders

• 74 Answers
• Posted on Jun 23, 2009

SOURCE: 2000 windstar anti theft system

un hook battery and wait about an hour or so and use factory key if wont fix dealer has to reset.

SOURCE: 1997 Ford expedition that won't start. It cranks,

FORD DEALERSHIP HAS TO FIX.SOUND LIKE THE THEFT MODULE SHUT DOWN VECHICLE.TRY ANOTHER KEY.STILL DONT CRANK LET DEALERSHIP FIX.