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Solved Everything you wanted to know about PATS.

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fixxxer

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Year, Model & Trim Level
93 XLT 4X4
Antitheft and Alarm Systems: Description and Operation
ANTI-THEFT
The passive anti-theft system (PATS) uses radio frequency identification technology
to deter a driveaway theft. Passive means that it does not require any activity from
the user.

The PATS uses a specially encoded ignition key. Each encoded ignition key contains a
permanently installed electronic device called a transponder. Each transponder
contains a unique electronic identification code, with over 72 million billion
combinations.

Each encoded ignition key must be programmed into the vehicle powertrain control
module (PCM) before it can be used to start the engine. There are special diagnostic
procedures that must be carried out if new encoded ignition keys are to be
configured.

The encoded key is larger than a traditional ignition key. The key does not require
batteries and should last the life of the vehicle.

The transceiver module communicates with the encoded ignition key. This module is
located behind the steering column shroud and contains an antenna connected to a
small electronic module. During each vehicle start sequence, the transceiver module
reads the encoded ignition key identification code and sends the data to the PCM.
The control functions are contained in the PCM. This module carries out all of the
PATS functions such as receiving the identification code from the encoded ignition
key and controlling engine enable. The PCM initiates the key interrogation sequence
when the vehicle ignition switch is turned to ON or START.

The PATS function uses the PCM to enable or disable the engine. All elements of PATS
must be functional before the engine is allowed to start. If any of the components
are not working correctly, the vehicle will not start.

PATS uses a visual theft indicator located on top of the instrument panel. This
indicator will prove out for three seconds when the ignition switch is turned to ON
or START under normal operation. If there is a PATS problem, this indicator will
either flash rapidly or glow steadily (for more than three seconds) when the ignition
switch is turned to ON or START. PATS also "flashes" the theft indicator every two
seconds at ignition OFF to act as a visual theft deterrent.

The PATS is not compatible with aftermarket remote start systems, which allow the
vehicle to be started from outside the vehicle. These systems may reduce the vehicle
security level, and also may cause no-start issues. Remote start systems must be
removed before investigation of PATS-related no-start issues.

The PATs key is used on the following Ford family trucks and suvs:

FORD: 1996-2001 MUSTANG, TAURUS
1998-2000 CONTOUR
1998-2001 CROWN VICTORIA
2000-2001 FOCUS
2002 THUNDERBIRD
1997-2001 EXPEDITION
1998-2002 EXPLORER
1999 F-250 LD
1999-2001 F-150, RANGER, WINDSTAR
2000-2001 EXCURSION
2001 ESCAPE
LINCOLN: 1997-1998 MARK VIII
1998-2001 CONTINENTAL, TOWN CAR
2000-2001 LS
1998-2001 NAVIGATOR
2002 BLACKWOOD
MERCURY: 1996-2001 SABLE
1998-2000 MYSTIQUE
1998-2001 GRAND MARQUIS
1999-2001 COUGAR
1998-2002 MOUNTAINEER

Additionally, PATs can be found on the follow Ford family cars and mini-vans:

1998-up Contour
1997-up Crown Victoria
1999-up Escort
2000-up Focus
1996-up Mustang and Taurus
1998-up Windstar
1998-up 2000-up Lincoln LS
1998-up Lincoln Mark VIII, Lincoln Continental and Lincoln Town Car
1997-up Mercury Grand Marquis
1998-up Mercury Mystique
1996-up Mercury Sable

Following are the instructions for programming a blank key (you must have at least one working key for this procedure).

The PAT

1. Make sure you have both keys.
2. Turn on car but don't start. Watch "theft" indicator untils it goes out.
3. Turn off and repeat procedure with second key.
4. After "theft light goes out, insert new key and turn on.
5. Wait until the theft indicator goes off and then turn off switch.
6. Wait thirty seconds. New key is now programmed into security module. Repeat for any other keys.


1. Erase any old codes by entering the factory code.(buttons will light up)
2. Press 1/2 button within 5 seconds.
3. Press 7/8 and 9/0 buttons at the same time within 5 seconds.

To set new code:

1. Enter factory code (numbers will light up)
2. Press 1/2 button within 5 seconds.
3. Enter personal 5 digit code(decide beforehand) within 5 seconds of each previous one.
To unlock all the doors,press the 3/4 button within 5 seconds of the driver door unlocking.
To lock all doors and set alarm system,press 7/8 and 9/0 at the same time.
To disarm or reset a triggered alarm,just enter personal or factory code.

Do not set a code with five of the same consecutive numbers. It's too easy for thieves to figure out.

Deactivating and Activating Autolock

To deactivate the "autolock":
With all doors and tailgate closed but NOT locked,and ignition OFF.
1. Enter 5 digit code
2. While holding 7/8 button in, press and release the 3/4 button.
3. Release 7/8 button
The horn will chirp once if the "autolock" was deactivated
or two times if "autolock" was activated.

To reactivate the system,repeat steps 1 thru 3

Alternate Method To Deactivate And Activate Autolock

Do steps [1] through [5] (below) within 30 seconds or you'll have to do it over. If you have to do it over, wait 30 seconds between attempts.
Close all doors securely.

1.Turn the ignition key to ON.

2.Press the power door UNLOCK control THREE times.

3.Turn the ignition key from ON to OFF.

4.Press the power door UNLOCK control THREE times.

5.Turn the ignition key back to ON .The doors should lock and unlock.

6.Press the power door UNLOCK control. The horn should chirp ONCE to confirm successful switching of the autolock system

Troubleshooting:

The engine does not start and LED remains off.
1. Check PATS system fuses
2. If alarm is fitted check if LED functions for alarm: if not check cigar lighter fuse (also used for LED)
3. If not go to main dealer

Engine does not start: LED flashes rapidly Leave ignition on until the LED starts to flash a 2 digit code: (sequence- pause-sequence)
Check the following codes:
Code flashes:
1:3 Key code not received. Is key screened by other keys or objects? Try different key: if okay then first key is faulty. If not go to main dealer
1:4 Partial code only received. Try again. If not okay use different key. If not go to main dealer
1:5 Key not programmed into PATS. Program key as above using master
1:6 Faulty link between PATS module and EECV Go to dealer .
 



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Thanks Brooklyn for moving this, I wasn't quite sure where it would be best to post it. I just want to give back a little for all the great information I've found here.
 






Following are the instructions for programming a blank key (you must have at least one working key for this procedure).

Im going to try this on my Explorer tomorrow but im 90% sure this is false. For the later Explorers you need 2 working, programmed keys to self program a key, not just one. This is according to my local dealer and it is also stated in the attached link at the end of the original post.

Correct me if im wrong here..............
 






Just tried this, you need two working keys to do this with my year Explorer at least.
 






2 working keys are the typical requirement. I don't know of any system that allows additional key programming with just one key, as someone who is using the car temporarily (say, a mechanic or so) could link an additional key to the system without the owner knowing.

The wiring from the PATS module to the GEM is as follows:
BLACK/YELLOW--RF Ground
DARK GREEN/WHITE--RF Power
GRAY/ORANGE--Receive
WHITE/LIGHT GREEN--Transmit

This information is useful if you're trying to install a remote start system and need to wire in a bypass module. I bought a bypass module that came with some p¡ss-poor instructions and struggled with this for days. Turns out the module was defective. :confused: Had I known all this ahead of time, I wouldn't have wasted hours trying to switch everything around and making a real mess.

If you're not installing a remote start bypass, then there's really no reason to cut these wires, unless you seriously know what you're doing. Remember, your Explorer won't start unless the PATS system is fully operational, and there is no bypass.
 






Whats the cheapest way to get a second key programmed?
 












Whats the cheapest way to get a second key programmed?

Generally for a PATS vehicle you must have two other programmed PATS keys to be able to add more. This applies if there are two or more key codes in the PATS memory. If there happen to only be one code in PATS memory, then you only need that one key. If the PATS memory was empty, then you can use any PATS key. Therefore it can't hurt to try to add a key with what you have, it just isn't likely that less than two keys are in PATS memory.

The PATS can accept a total of eight key codes.

If you have less than two PATS accepted keys, the only way to add more is to remove all key codes from the PATS, and start adding them again. That code erase procedure can only be done by a special Ford diagnostic tool, at the dealer. After they remove the codes, the PATS module will accept any keys with the simple procedure. It will accept the first key without any requirement. Then it will accept the 2nd PATS key only after the 1st is applied in the ignition. After that you have to have two programmed PATS keys again like normal.
 






How much would the dealer charge to erase the PATS memory?
 






I'm not sure but it should be well under $100. The procedure is automatic once started, and takes ten minutes. I had mine done by a friend tech, it didn't work the first time, so total was about 30 minutes for my 99 truck.
 






I have one working key(A) and another new key(B) that has been cut already and will open the doors and unlock the ignition but will not start the car.


1. Make sure you have both keys.(A&B)
2. Turn on car (B) but don't start. Watch "theft" indicator untils it goes out.
3. Turn off and repeat procedure with second key(A).
4. After "theft light goes out, insert new key and turn on. (B)
5. Wait until the theft indicator goes off and then turn off switch.
6. Wait thirty seconds. New key is now programmed into security module. Repeat for any other keys.

Is this it?
TIA, GWB
 






No, that will only work if the PATS module happened to only have one key in total programmed into it. How rare is that, all vehicles have two or more keys programmed into them.

Try it, it will do no harm. But expect it to not work, and plan to go to Ford to have the PATS memory cleared and the new keys programmed in. Welcome,
 






I was just trying to get the sequence down, I wasn't sure which key and when to use the original and the new. I bought 3 keys on ebay and will try one when I get them. It looks like I will need to get one programmed at the ford house and then I can program the other two myself.
Incidentally: PATS uses a visual theft indicator located on top of the instrument panel. Where is this indicator? I have the Theft light that flashes when I turn the key on, the air bag indicator, Over drive along the bottom of the cluster but I cannot locate another. The writeup distinctly says there is a visual theft indicator in addition the the Theft light at the bottom.

Thanks
 






I don't recall reading of another indicator. The PATS is a feature of all 98 and newer Fords as far as I know. The "THEFT" light is connected with the PATS and any OEM alarm.
 






Sorry, I was alluding to the original posters comment: PATS uses a visual theft indicator located on top of the instrument panel. This
indicator will prove out for three seconds when the ignition switch is turned to ON
or START under normal operation. If there is a PATS problem, this indicator will
either flash rapidly or glow steadily (for more than three seconds) when the ignition
switch is turned to ON or START. PATS also "flashes" the theft indicator every two
seconds at ignition OFF to act as a visual theft deterrent.


I have the Theft indicator that flashes, but not "the visual theft indicator located at the top of the instrument panel" Mine is a 99, maybe his reference is to a newer model.
 






I think that is the same thing, a different(not very good) description of the "THEFT" light.
 






I have one working key(A) and another new key(B) that has been cut already and will open the doors and unlock the ignition but will not start the car.


1. Make sure you have both keys.(A&B)
2. Turn on car (B) but don't start. Watch "theft" indicator untils it goes out.
3. Turn off and repeat procedure with second key(A).
4. After "theft light goes out, insert new key and turn on. (B)
5. Wait until the theft indicator goes off and then turn off switch.
6. Wait thirty seconds. New key is now programmed into security module. Repeat for any other keys.

Is this it?
TIA, GWB

1st and second key refers to already programmed keys??
At No.5 Do you take out key or leave it in and wait for No.6 to happen?
 






You must have atleast 2 keys stored in the PATS memory inorder to program any keys without diagnostic equipment.

If you have 2 keys programmed and wish to program more (up to 8 total) then insert the first programmed key, turn to on (do not crank) for 5 seconds, then turn off and remove. Within 10 seconds, insert the second programmed key and turn to on (do not crank) for 5 seconds, then turn off and remove. Within 10 seconds, insert the unprogrammed key and turn to on for 5 seconds, then turn off. Repeat for any additional keys you wish to program. Verify all keys work.

If you only have one working key, you must have diagnostic equipment to program anymore keys. Most dealerships will charge appx .5 to 1.0 hour at the shop rate to program keys. If you are near me, look me up and I will do it for free.
 



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Thanks, No, I am all the way in Belize, in Central America. I have both my orignal keys but it is always good to know.
Cheers
 






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