Chrysler Repair: Sebring wont stay cranked, chrysler sebring convertible, security alarm system

Question
I have a 1996 Chrysler Sebring Convertible.  It has been driving fine lately, well other than the water in floor.  BUt now I know how to fix that problem.  However, today it ran fine for some errands then off for a while.  When went back to crank it up, the horn was blaring and it would crank but would shut down after few seconds.  I beleive this may have something ot do with my alarm system. There is also a msg on th e odometer screen that reads "deck".  Can you give me any input as how to fix this problem?
THanks,
Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa,
I believe that you are correct in thinking that the problem is related to the security alarm system. Unfortunately I don't have a manual for the Sebring security system and all the references I have checked do not shed light on the "deck" warning on the odometer. Might that mean that your trunk lid is not secured tightly. Try opening and closing it to see if that clears the display. On other years and models there is a self-diagnostic test for the system that involves switching the ignition key from off to accessory three times then leaving it in the accessory position. Then when you open a door and then shut a door each action should cause the horn to toot which verifies that the sensor is being seen by the control unit. But that may be for later. Have you checked the owners manual for any instruction?
But the horn sounding when you returned and the rapid stall out sounds exactly like it believes someone tried (or is trying) to tamper with the car. So read about how to disarm the system in the owners manual. Usually you just have to unlock a door with the key, or try the remote entry unit, if you have one. The stall out is in fact how the unit keeps the car from being stolen. And somehow you have to convince it that you are the owner (by using the key or the remote) to get out of that configuration.
Let me know how you resolve this so I'll learn something too.
Roland