With no obvious previous symptoms my 1998 Legacy Outback Limited suddenly wouldn't start tonight. The instrument panel lights and the radio flash on and off about a dozen times or so, then stop momentarily, then flash again (over and over). This happens constantly - with or without the key in the ingnition. The red security light to the left of the steering column constantly flashes. When I try to start the car, I get nothing - the engine doesn't turn over; and I don't here a rapid clicking sound from the starter. The battery is not dead and doesn't appear to be low, plus I tried to jump the car with cables but didn't get any response from the engine. The flashing red security light makes me wonder if the security system has some how been triggered and this has disabled the ignition system. As far as I know there is no after-market or third-party security system installed on the car.
Has anyone experienced similar troubles? Any ideas?