Solved Everything you wanted to know about PATS.

[2000StreetRod]

You would have a Fob with a start button. This is what mine looks like for my 2003 Centennial.

The turquoise button with an open hood is the start button. If you have one press the button and see if the engine starts.

 

[sprucewood]

You would have a Fob with a start button. This is what mine looks like for my 2003 Centennial.
View attachment 151414
The turquoise button with an open hood is the start button. If you have one press the button and see if the engine starts.

No I do not have the remote start , my blue button opens the rear hatch.

 

[2000StreetRod]

Oops! So does mine. I've never used it before. The remote start function may not have been available from the factory back then. On newer fobs it looks like a curved arrow that must be pressed twice.

You still might have an aftermarket remote start capability. If so, there should be another receiver under the dash in the vicinity of the PATS components.

 

[Texas97x]

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 .
For more information and troubleshooting tips:
PATS-Troubleshooting-DIAGNOSTIC-Service-Tips and:
Programming Ford-PATS

I had the blinking theft light and code 1-6 but was able to reset without going to dealer. Stand outside with it locked, hold panic button for 2 seconds then use key to unlock door, get in and insert key and turn to on, horn should stop and theft light should go out.

 

[TOM fONTAINE]

Theft indicator The theft indicator on the instrument cluster will operate as follows: ² When the ignition is OFF, the theft indicator will flash briefly every two seconds to indicate the SecuriLocky system is protecting your vehicle. ² When the ignition is turned to ON or START, the theft indicator will light for three seconds and then go out. If the theft indicator stays on for an extended period of time or flashes rapidly, have the system serviced by your dealership or a qualified technician. 2002 ford explorer Owners Manual | Just Give Me The Damn Manual ........... GO TO page 132

 

[Nate_V8]

I have a 98 explorer. Having some issues with the transceiver ring. I ordered a used from ebay but it has the exact same issues. Sometimes it works perfect, sometimes it takes 1 or 2 key off/on to work, sometimes it takes 30 on/offs to work. It's possible the used transceiver ring has the same issue but I'm wondering if it is just a ground issue.

Where is the ground for the transceiver located? The wiring goes up into the dash and I have no idea where it goes from there.

 

[markjmcmurray]

Quick question: I think...
Drove our 1999 Ford Explorer to the store, came out, and when we tried to start the thing, the Ignition switch wouldn't turn. With our Original Chipped Ford Key. And the Theft Light was Blinking.
Then I locked up the steering wheel trying to get it to turn.
So we had Roadside Assistance tow us home.
Then the Ford Service Rep, referred us to our local Locksmith, because we thought the key went bad, and wanted one cut from our Vin #. (The Dealership didn't have the codes for one that old, but the Locksmith had more access to the Codes, lol).
So the Locksmith shop cut a Non Chipped key for us, and sent us home to try it to get the steering wheel unlocked & see if it would turn the Ignition switch. It didn't.
Thier Technician told me to put the unchipped key in the ignition, after spraying WD40 into the Switch, and hit it with a Hammer while trying to turn the ignition & steering wheel.
After Hours of trying this, the Ignition finally Turned! And the Steering wheel unlocked!
But it still wouldn't Start.
So we had the vehicle towed to the Locksmith shop. Again by Roadside Assistance.
Thinking that maybe the Chipped Key needed reprogrammed or something. Or they could install and program a New Ignition Switch.
The Locksmith Shop Cut another Chipped Key, Cleared the Codes, and reprogrammed the keys into Pats.
Still no luck starting.
But they didn't install a new switch since the old one was working good with the new key.
So we then took it to the Ford Dealership Service Shop, Via Roadside Assistance again.
The Service Shop told us tonight, on the Phone, that the Passlock is Bad, and unavailable. But they were going to try to see if they could find one through "Resources".
Are they talking about the Ignition Transceiver? When I look up 1999 Ford Explorer Passlock, it shows the Anti-theft Transceiver.
And those are pretty cheap on-line.
But I'm sure they are going to find the most expensive one, lol.
Where else can I find one Cheap that will work? And isn't this the one part in the whole PATS that doesn't require Programing?

 

[jd4242]

So what doe the truck do if used a key that works in ignition but does not have the chip??

Also has a chip key ever failed??

 

[Nate_V8]

So what doe the truck do if used a key that works in ignition but does not have the chip??

Also has a chip key ever failed??

I've heard of chip keys failing but I don't know how it fails. If you use a key that fits the ignition but doesn't have a chip (or the right chip) it won't start. It will just keep cranking over.

 

[jd4242]

I've heard of chip keys failing but I don't know how it fails. If you use a key that fits the ignition but doesn't have a chip (or the right chip) it won't start. It will just keep cranking over.

Ive been told that it cuts fuel and wont crank over

 

[Nate_V8]

Ive been told that it cuts fuel and wont crank over

It actually cuts the injectors and does it through the computer so you can't bypass anything to give it power. Some people thought it cut the fuel pump and tried wiring it to bypass the security, didn't work lol

EDIT: Cuts the injectors.

 

[jd4242]

It actually cuts spark and does it through the computer so you can't bypass anything to give it power. Some people thought it cut fuel so they tried hot wiring the fuel pump, didn't work lol

@4pointslow
@boominXplorer

???

 

[Nate_V8]

@4pointslow
@boominXplorer

???

I'm assuming you are asking for their input because you were thinking/hoping it cut fuel at the fuel pump?

 

[jd4242]

I'm assuming you are asking for their input because you were thinking/hoping it cut fuel at the fuel pump?

No both have told me it wouldnt turn over and it cuts fuel also..

If it only cuts spark then it would flood the motor and cats with fuel if you kept cranking it..

 

[Nate_V8]

No both have told me it wouldnt turn over and it cuts fuel also..

If it only cuts spark then it would flood the motor and cats with fuel if you kept cranking it..

See and there I went and posted wrong info. I will go back up and fix it but it cuts the INJECTORS. My bad!!!

It does turn over though, as my transceiver ring is faulty and will sometimes not read my chip. it will cut the injectors and crank over and over until the battery dies if you let it

 

[jd4242]

See and there I went and posted wrong info. I will go back up and fix it but it cuts the INJECTORS. My bad!!!

It does turn over though, as my transceiver ring is faulty and will sometimes not read my chip. it will cut the injectors and crank over and over until the battery dies if you let it

Thats honestly my main question though, will it still crank and turn over if a key without a chip is used or if the key is bad..

When yours wont start does the light blink and show a problem with the pats?? Or just cranks and doesnt start?

 

[Nate_V8]

Thats honestly my main question though, will it still crank and turn over if a key without a chip is used or if the key is bad..

When yours wont start does the light blink and show a problem with the pats?? Or just cranks and doesnt start?

I believe the theft light should flash rapidly when you turn the key on if there is any kind of problem (will take about 3 seconds to start flashing after the key is turned on if there is a problem), be it bad chip, faulty transceiver ring, wrong chip ...etc. When it's flashing rapidly it won't start but it will crank over. Mine cranks over anyways. If my faulty ring can't read the chip then it should be like not having one. it SHOULD crank over but I can't confirm.

Why are you concerned about it turning over or not?

I found out with my faulty transceiver ring (one day I'll go to ford and buy a new one) when I turn the key on and the check engine light comes on, that means the theft light won't flash rapidly which means the ring read my chip. If I turn the key on and check engine light is off, I know the theft light will flash rapidly and won't start if I wait 3 more seconds or try to start it. I say this because if it's being sensitive that day and takes 30 tries for the ring to finally read the chip, turning the key on and looking for the check engine light saves 3 seconds of my time (or the starter/battery if I keep trying to crank it 30 times) waiting for the theft light to start flashing rapidly. So I can just go on/off/on/off in rapid succession until I see the check engine light and then when I see the check engine light it will crank over and it will start.

 

[jd4242]

I believe the theft light should flash rapidly when you turn the key on if there is any kind of problem (will take about 3 seconds to start flashing after the key is turned on if there is a problem), be it bad chip, faulty transceiver ring, wrong chip ...etc. When it's flashing rapidly it won't start but it will crank over. Mine cranks over anywyas

Why are you concerned about it turning over or not?

I found out with my faulty transceiver ring (one day I'll go to ford and buy a new one) when I turn the key on and the check engine light comes on, that means the theft light won't flash rapidly which means the ring read my chip. If I turn the key on and check engine light is off, I know the theft light will flash rapidly and won't start if I wait 3 more seconds or try to start it. I say this because if it's being sensitive that day and takes 30 tries for the ring to finally read the chip, turning the key on and looking for the check engine light saves 3 seconds of my time (or the starter/battery if I keep trying to crank it 30 times) waiting for the theft light to start flashing rapidly. So I can just go on/off/on/off in rapid succession until I see the check engine light and then when I see the check engine light it will crank over and it will start.

Aww ok thanks

 

[Nate_V8]

Aww ok thanks

What is the problem you are having though?

 

[jd4242]

What is the problem you are having though?

Its probably not related to pats..

My truck wont start,ive checked EVERYTHING so as a last resort i was trying to figure out how pats worked

Doesnt really matter now,i had my tuner tune PATS out,i didnt know that could be done