Car Alarms: car alarm 2001 Escape, alarmtek, dash area

Question
I am having problems with the factory issued alarm in my 2001 ford escape. The remote only works sometimes, when it does the remote has to be placed right upto the driver's side window for the sensor to pick up the remote. When it doesn't work, I can open the door (the alarm goes off sometimes) with the keys but it doesn't allow me to start the vehicle. What is the problem & how can I disarm this anti-theft alarm.  HELP!

Answer
Please be more specific.

I need to determine whether it's a factory alarm
issue or, if it's an aftermarket system you are
dealing with.

Is it: Headlights flashing, car horn honking
and a worded SECURITY" light in the dash flashing?
(doubtfull since none of the notes show this
car as having a factory alarm system)=FACTORY

Or,

is it: flashing parking lights,
an LED in the dash area, and a siren
going off?= AFTER MARKET

Let me know more on this to better
advise you on a course of action
to take.

Best Regards,

Robert Martin
CEO/ALARMTEK
CARALARMMAN.com