Ford Repair: Transmitter keyless entry, alert button, 1997 ford escort

Question
I have a 1997 Ford Escort LX.  I have one of those keyless transmitters.  I changed the batteries in it.  What is happening is that the theft light on the dash board is staying on all the time.  A week ago I used to be able to push the alert button on the transmitter and it would go off and push it again and it would blink.  But now it won't even go off at all.  I need help! Please tell me what it could be.

Answer
Hello Lori,
Well, Im quessing since the vehicle is almost 9 years old the remote control is about that age to.. In time the contacts in the remote  go bad, just like a remote control for your tv. Im quessing the remote is the original that came with the vehicle.. What I would do, is take to Ford, and have them replace the unit for you.. The also will program it for you also.. I hope this somewhat helps you in your vehicle problem.. I,, thank you,, and good luck..