Hey guys hope everyone is well. Issue is as follows:
2008 Ford Ranger, 3.0 4x2.
I just had the cylinder heads replaced because the engine was misfiring, dealer said there was a leak at one of the cylinder heads (also this Ranger falls in the group that had problems with the heads). Anyway I got it back from the dealer and had to take it back in because it was missing again. They claimed it was a vacuum tube that they missed. While they were checking to find out the vacuum problem they came and asked me if I had a security system installed because they couldn't get it to start. I do not and told them as much. They then came back and said the battery was low but that they got the truck to start (didn't make since to me but they were closing and I wanted to go home so I left it). I drove to a local auto parts store to buy a couple things and when I returned the truck would not start. I turned the key and nothing. I've had starter problems before and am convinced that is not it. I did see something I have not noticed before though, after removing the key I saw a padlock symbol flash 5 times on the instrument cluster at 1 second intervals then stop. I have two keys programed to the truck. I have tried both. I put my OBD scanner on it and there are no codes. When I turn the key I hear a click over by the glovebox somewhere. Additionally the padlock symbol lights up when I turn the key to on, stays lit for about 3 seconds and then goes out. It remains off until I remove the key and then it will flash 5 times at 1 second intervals. Any help is appreciated as I just replaced the heads and put new tires and brakes on it (basically spent more than the truck is worth) and I am losing my mind at this new development. Thanks guys.

 

Not a PATS issue

From your owners manual

Vehicles equipped with the SecuriLock™ Passive Anti-theft system behave as follows:
• When the ignition is in the 1(OFF/LOCK) position, the indicator will flash once every 2 seconds for a total of 10 seconds to indicate the SecuriLock™ system is functioning as a theft deterrent. = 5 flashes
• When the ignition is in the 3 (ON) position, the indicator will glow for 3 seconds to indicate a programmed key has been validated and the SecuriLock™ Passive Anti-theft system has enabled the engine.

If it was a PATS issue
The theft indicator light will flash on and off rapidly.

 

^Agreed. If the SecuriLock/PATS light is not flashing while the key is turned to run, then it is not a PATS issue.

 

So I have no reason for ruling out the starter other than I have replaced it awhile ago... not sure how long ago but I can assume about 30,000 miles ago. I mean now that I've typed it out I guess that could definitely be it... Could it be a bad solenoid because I don't hear any click from the starter, just a click over by the glovebox.

 

Replacement starters are always hit and miss. But first you need to verify you don't have a relay going bad under the hood or a blown fuse. Verify the easy stuff first, and if all of that checks out, move on to the starter and solenoid.

 

SO I just tried a trick I learned in high school where you just whack the starter and solenoid a couple times and it started up so assuming the starter is going. thanks for the insight though guys. The dealership guys asking about the security system really diverted my attention from the obvious. Thanks again!

 

Aftermarket starters are hit and miss. That's why sometimes you have to hit them to make them work, and hope that you don't miss and hit something else.