1996 Taurus, 24V engine. Car starts always, but runs about 4 or 5 seconds and shuts off. Will repeatedly do this. Other times it starts and runs fine, with no change in anything done. It appears as if there is some problem with the keychip, the ignition locks response to it, or the computer. Dealer says they cant even check it until it fails, and that might take days of testing. Anyone know of any history of these keys losing their chip program, or the sensor that lives on the switch going bad? Best solution of all would be to just take the switch out, and permanently disable the safety feature. Oh, the theft light comes on the dash when its is in the failure mode, and does not when it decides to run okay. Acts exactly like other cars I have had when a corner store makes a standard key without a chip in it. Would it be wise to just replace the switch assembly and hope for the best? Car is not reliable for my wife to drive around the city and to work at night the way it is. Hate the thought of having it towed to a garage, and calling a taxi to get home. Not much better giving it to dealer for days until it fails. Very frustrating problem.

 

Have you tried disconnecting the negative on the battery for a few minutes to reset the car's computer? Maybe it'll fix itself....and don't laugh....it just might work.