Car won't start. Could it be the battery?

When I try to start my car, it makes a noise like its trying to start. But then all the levels on the dashboard (gas, RPMs, etc) jump up & down quickly, and the car doesn't start. It also won't lock, lights don't come on etc. I'm guessing it must be the battery but could it be something else? 2002 ford explorer

Battery is probably bad. No lights and no power locks indicates the battery is too weak. You can get one at a 24 hr Walmart for around $100. (Yeah I said Walmart but their batteries are decent.) Be sure to take your old one in so you don't get charged a $15.00 core fee.