Why is the red light on the dash in front of the windshield stay on when you try to crank the car

I had that for the longest time and it was a bulb in the high level, back window brake light that was out. As well as the back lights, check the side makers as well. Is this the Toyota Avalon I answered a question about? Not sure if the dash light signifies a difference between front and back? Check all the lights, you also have a small sidelight marker in the front lights. It is good to have friend helping inside the car as you are checking front rear and sides.

Turn key so dash lights come on and leave it like that for one hour then turn to crank engine without switching off.

this is a computer problem try resetting your computer. this should be done at an auto shop

check to see if security system is working (activeated) ,look at fuses

thats the security alarm light letting you no its working

in the center of the dash you have a flashing red light when car is not on looks like alarm system. if that light is flashing or stayting red while cranking you have a antitheft problem

Do you have an alarm system installed? These sound like the alarm indicator lights. They are supposed to deter theft and break ins.

Not sure this helps but sometimes this is caused by a bad igntion switch. you can try to wiggle it with out shutting off the van,

Check fluid levels, like oil & coolant, or maybe windshield washer fluid.

Is it the check engine light ? Or what does the light look like ? give more info.