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I have a 2002 Toyota echo that won't start. When the key is turned to the "start" position, I just get rapid clicking. Even more odd, though, is when the key is placed in the ignition, the turn signal lights (external) and lots of internals lights begin to flash in a morse code-like fashion and I something beeping.. When the key is removed from the ignition, the flashing and beeping continues for about 5-10 seconds.
Country: United StatesMake: ToyotaModel: EchoYear: 2002 Already Tried: Tried using jumper cables to get the car to start. Tried disconnecting and reconnecting the negative battery cable.
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Rapid clicking of the starter is usually do to a lack of current flow to the starter from the battery. The amperage is not enough to keep the solenoid on the starter engaged. Did you have the battery tested?
I haven't tested or replaced the battery yet. Would a faulty battery cause the flashing and beeping?
Not normally but I have seen stranger things. You need to focus on why the starter is clicking rapidly first. If you are certain the battery terminals are good then the next step is to have the battery tested.
Experience: Toyota Master Diagnostic
I also have a 2003 Toyota Echo. Can I swap batteries to see if the problem is the battery? Are the batteries the same?
yes if you are certain it is good
Yes. My 2003 Echo is running well. Thanks. I'll try swapping the batteries and see if the condition improves.
Let me know how it goes.
I believe I have ruled-out the battery. I made the swap, and the 2002 Echo exibits the same flashing problem known-good battery, although it is able to start and run now.While the flashing was going on, I pulled each flasher/relay in the fuse boxes in the passenger compartment and in the engine compartment. The flashing continued with each flasher/relay removed.Any ideas what to check next?
Did the engine start right away with no starter clicking and did you let it warm up to operating temp? Did any warning lights display? When do the lights start acting up?
Yes, the engine started right away after swapping in the battery. While running, no dashboard indicator lights are lit. (Also, I have an error code scanner, and no errors codes are present) The lights effected by the flashing are the external turn signal lights (all four) and the internal dashboard accessory/control background lights, the radio control background lights (but not the radio itself). The problem only begins when the key is turned past ACC to RUN. Is it possible that a faulty ignition switch could cause it? What is very puzzling is that the lights keep flashing for a while after the key is removed.
This has some type of security system added to the car. This is the only thing that makes sense. It got triggered with the bad battery and now it won't go off. Most of these systems tie into the parking lights and the interior lights are tied to those. The four way flasher are used also. Look up under the drivers side of the dash and see if you see a valet switch or the module/control unit.
I just looked under the dash, and sure enough there is a black plastic box with lots of wire connectors labeled "CODEALARM" and a small two-position switch. The problem persists, no matter which position the switch is in. I suppose I'll research the removal of this device that I didn't even know was there...
That is good to hear. In my opinion I think you should have this system completely removed and install the wiring harness back to the factory condition. Frankly I'm surprised that it actually let the vehicle start. Glad to been able to help you figure this one out. Unfortunately I don't have a lot of information on aftermarket security systems. Just follow the wires back to where they are tapped in the original harness and repair the connections so that nothing is tapped in.
I was able to download an install guide for the aftermarket alarm system, and successfully remove it. Now everything is working normally. Thanks!
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