I finally had to replace the battery on my 2001 Dakota SLT 4x4 4.7. The symptoms started with the driver's side window straining and then later not going down at all.
The problems now that I have changed it are:
1. There is a red signal that flashes quickly on the dash display. It is so quick I have trouble focusing to be able to read it. I think it is flashing SECURITY. What does that mean and how can I eliminate - fix it so it no longer flashes?
2. When I turn the headlights on, I get a clicking noise and in sequence with that noise, the headlights and the dash display lights blink. What could cause that and how can I fix it?
I would appreciate any help from someone more technically oriented than myself.
Thanks.

 

I will move this to the 2nd Generation Dakota Sub-Forum.

 

my truck had the same problem wen i tried to hotwire it it made a wierd ticking sound out from under the dash i changed a ingnition fuse n replaced the battery n the truck worked perfect is the battery you put in it new

 

do you gt that noise when you turn the key forward to

 

Turns out the central timer module is bad. This is not a good thing to have go bad due to the $$$.$$ it costs to replace!
It was a new battery and the sound was heard whenever the headlights were on.