key got wet won't start 99 ford windstar van

[pappyjack]

help,
my car keys got washed & my van won't start someone said that the chip got wet & to let it dry well it's been 3 days.i have lights,radio,etc.(have new battery) the theft light speeds up flashing when i put key into ignition.when i turn key theres nothing! can anyone help me?? thank you,debra

[catvents]

This is probably the problem, chip inside the key(s) is (are) wet or mabe destroyed.
If no other key is available you will have to go to the dealership ( with the van) ( towing to expect) , get one or 2 new keys that will be re-programmed to be used in your van. If one of your key works ( doesn't look to be the case) you can buy another programmable key and program it yourself ( with the help of the owner manual) but as I told you need one key in good condition to re-programm a new one. Bye the way it is normal that when you turn your ignition keys to on , all the lamps and radio goes on but the starter will not work. (which need the signal from the key ) If you have a remote starter, you can use it to start the engine then put your key to on and you will be able to drive your van until you get new programmed keys from the dealer.

[thscott]

If you pry off the tiny plastic cover on the top edge of the plastic key holder, you can remove the security "chip" and perhaps dry it better. Hopefully you have a second key that works.