1997 FORD ESCORT WONT START HAVE DASHBOARD LIGHTS AND HEADLIGHTS NO SOUND EXCEPT ALARM FROM DOOR BEING OPENED

usualy there is a switch on the driver and passener side, try disarming by unlocking drivers door with the key to disarm the factory alarm, or the passenger door. this should turn off the alarm if it is not aftermarket. the factory alarm will arm any time the door is locked by key or power door lock. good luck

Check relays and wiring for current to them.

Sounds like possibly the ignition switch is going out. Try jiggling the key in the ignition in the on position and see if your lights come back on.

disconnect the battery for 1 minute and try again - ---quick fix possible with that---
if that makes no difference then I would like to know exactly what model of alarm and immobiliser the car has - what is the maker + model no/serialno of the keyfob for the alarm, I can get the info I need off that.
also you can check the fuse in the alarm if you know where the alarm is situated, it will have a fuse either on an inline fulseholder on as a spade fuse stuck into its casing somewhere - replace the fuse if blown and try again to start the car ------------ tell me the model no of your alarm and immobiliser if no joy after battery/fuses and I can read up on them and see if I can fix your problem...

it is most likely to be a faulty relay inside the actual alarm unit

probably the alternator is faulty, change it or have it rebuilt try that hope it works.
Linda

disconnect the bonnet switch under the hood behind the right headlight .should stop the alarm.let me know how you get on with this.will the doors open manually with key in door.or they wont open with remote as you did not specify

it seems that the contact circuit in the driverside door is the problem, it's obviously not the alarm itself others wise the same thing would occure on the passengerside. you have to remove the door panel on the driverside and inspect the wires in that circuit for corrosion which would cause no current to pass between the by pass switch the arms or disarms the alarm. please rate this

I have simmilyer problem. have a 1987 ford escort stationwagon high beams only but have to hold the bright lever on at all times. Otherwise my lights don't work at all except the parking lights. Have you found your problem that might help me.

This is normally the alarm switch which is attached to the key barrel on the door. You will have to remove the door trim to get at it.