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Solved Everything you wanted to know about PATS.

Prefix for threads that contain problems that have been resolved, and there is an answer within the thread.
The Explorer swaps have been more troublesome due to the 98-01 systems using the ABS module to "condition" the speed(VSS) signal, before it reaches the PCM or speedometer. Quite a few people ran into that and through posts on here we began to learn what was so odd with these systems. The Explorer in those year also required a G sensor, which is mounted on the frame near the fuel pump.

The PATS is just another item that makes swaps interesting.
 



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Pats transceiver and key Question

I have a 99 Ford Ranger but I had to install a new column because the column was damaged along witg the transciever ring area. The Pats transceiver is different than whats in 99 by the connector ends to the chassis connector. Also the key is different it is a type 40 bit key and original a 4c. Is the key backwards compatible along with the transceiver? The transceiver has different color wires and connector head than my 99. Thanks appreciate your feedback.
 












Bypassing PATS all together

Hey guys and gals

Is there a way to bypass the pats all the way around. I have a 2000 explorer xlt and just changed the steering column the key that is with the used one I got don't look like a factory key but it works on the ignition and the like just wont start the truck .


Reaper
 






PATS is a software switch in the PCM. Absolutely no way to 'work around' it. Believe me, I tried. You can either pay someone to turn off the switch at a cost of several hundred bucks or convert your '00 to a '97 which is no easy task costing several hundred bucks or pay a Ford dealer several hundred bucks to get it operational again.

The software turn off is the simplest. At one time there was someone that would do that for a $100. You would send him your PCM and he would return it without PATS. Now it is about $400 if you can find someone to do it.

A little light reading for you:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=364540
 






Please help me to find out my alarm system remote control friquency. I'm about to purchase new foldable key and need to know the friquency of the transmitter.
As far as I know it could be 433 or 315 Mhz. My Explorer was sold in europe, but it apears on Microcat USA not in EU ones. I would PM VIN if needed if someone could help me.
 






New to group same problem in my 04 Explorer.. Any help

Forgive me if someone has pointed this out. I have been trying to read through all of the forums related to PATS. I have a 2004 Exploder and have been having intermittent problems with it starting. I'm pretty sure it has something to do with PATS.

When I turn the key to start, I get a click sound and the fuel pump primes. The Red Indicator light on top of the dash (center of the dash up by the windshield) rapidly flashes. This results in a no-start.

I have tried troubleshooting everything from the starter, to the gear shift cable down by the tranny, to cleaning the battery posts/cables. This all started last fall when I put a new battery in it.

What is interesting, is that I can get it to start if I continually try turning the ignition key back and forth while turning the steering wheel from side to side. I keep doing this until it finally starts. Around Christmas, this was going on consistently for about two weeks and then everything was A-OK. No problems with starting at all.... until yesterday it has started doing it again.

I assume that I may have a short in the steering column or something wrong with the PATS. Any ideas?
Im having the same problem in my 04 Exlorer. Had a alternator put in and now it wont start and my Red Indicator light on the top of dash is doing the same thing yours did. My mechanic and I are lost can anyone help??
 






While I can only guess what your problem is I had similar symptoms associated with the steering wheel. Car would start reliably most of the time. 'Most of the time' is a difficult phrase to explain to the wife.

Two trips to the Ford store got the 'cannot duplicate the problem' answer. Only after a third several day visit with a technician taking the car home was it determined that the problem was a mostly broken wire in the key reading module around the key tumbler. Replaced and worked for another 5 years.

It was under warranty so the service department probably figured out that they were going to fix it or eat it.
 






Is PATS paired with any other modules or components?
Or is it just key/barrel/pcm?
 






There is a PATS module mounted behind the glove box in the '00 Explorer. It is a signal converter between the key/barrel reader and the PCM. Not a high failure item. I have one free for shipping if you feel the need.
 






Is PATS paired with any other modules or components?
Or is it just key/barrel/pcm?

The 98-01 Explorer PCM also requires the Explorer ABS module for the VSS circuit, plus the G-sensor. Those only matter for a swap to another different vehicle.
 






But if you were needing to change PCM, you would only need to change the PCM and the key/barrel along with it?
 






But if you were needing to change PCM, you would only need to change the PCM and the key/barrel along with it?

No, but if the vehicle was a like Explorer, same kind of PATS module, then it would need the PATS and PCM, plus key cylinder(to use the matching keys).

The PATS module is where the key codes are stored, thus it's matched with the PCM. You can mix and match but that requires the special dealer tool to erase the codes, which allows any keys to work then.
 






wow great info guys, as I'm new to explorer and this site, it's been very educational.
I'm having a pats 1:6 problem and unable to communicate with the pcm from the odb port. To make things worse the only key I have is an aftermarket that wase working up till a couple of days ago when the truck just up and stopped starting with flashing security.
I've followed this thread for some time and am so far unable to find the issue following some of the recommendations. i'm almost thinking of changing out the PCM as I have a 98 explorer, I understand I maybe able to plug and play the PCM from a 97 with out the PATS from a matching truck.

any suggestions? thoughts on this..

update: after doing more research I believe its not the pats system, it's simply a resulting error from my trucks original issue no communication. any one have this? I took the PCM out and inspected, checked that its getting power and grnd.

Paul
98 Explorer 4.0L V6 OHV
 






Okay sorry to bump this old post but I'm having some serious issues and need someone that really knews these systems please if anyone replys I'll post my issues it's a long list haha but short info 96 4.0 auto factory now it's a 5 speed xlt now the issue is I'm going back to auto and a 5.0 swap from a 97 explorer with no pats but I also got new interior out of a 2000 4.0sohc with pats and message center and the digital heater controls and heated seats how do i make all this work will the pats dash wiring work in a non pats truck with the message center work with the correct dash harness and digital heater control ? Please help I'm very mechanically inclined no task to big just lost on what I need to do to make all this work I hate electrical lol
 






Okay sorry to bump this old post but I'm having some serious issues and need someone that really knews these systems please if anyone replys I'll post my issues it's a long list haha but short info 96 4.0 auto factory now it's a 5 speed xlt now the issue is I'm going back to auto and a 5.0 swap from a 97 explorer with no pats but I also got new interior out of a 2000 4.0sohc with pats and message center and the digital heater controls and heated seats how do i make all this work will the pats dash wiring work in a non pats truck with the message center work with the correct dash harness and digital heater control ? Please help I'm very mechanically inclined no task to big just lost on what I need to do to make all this work I hate electrical lol

Make the whole engine wiring system come from the 97 Explorer. That engine harness and your old 96 truck should be similar except for the V8 related items. Leave out any PATS stuff from the later dash wiring. The EATC and message center doesn't need much of the dash harness and under hood wiring, just a few wires and components. Find threads here showing how others fit the EATC and MC into their Explorers.
 






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
Help....I drove the exp. about 100 miles on s recent trip, stopped the truck, turned it off, got out, shut the drivers door and did NOT lock it. Key is out of ignition and in my pocket. 30 minutes go by and I re-enter the truck, insert the key and no crank turnover, dead, no start, engine will not turn over however all lights, AC unit, radio etc. are working. The "Theft" light is blinking fast. Came to the conclusion that the Transceiver is faulty and so I was able to replace it and it started right up. Then, drove for one minute and bang.....no power. Engine begins to falter, will not rev up, and then stalls completely. That was 2 months ago and today's date is Oct. 2017. Mechanic says no codes on his million dollar scanner / diagnostic set up. Very reputable well known shop. ....Any thoughts ?THANKS
 












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 step
Is your vehicle equipped with a remote start capability? After market units are frequently the cause of failure to start problems.
s [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
Help....I drove the exp. about 100 miles on s recent trip, stopped the truck, turned it off, got out, shut the drivers door and did NOT lock it. Key is out of ignition and in my pocket. 30 minutes go by and I re-enter the truck, insert the key and no crank turnover, dead, no start, engine will not turn over however all lights, AC unit, radio etc. are working. The "Theft" light is blinking fast. Came to the conclusion that the Transceiver is faulty and so I was able to replace it and it started right up. Then, drove for one minute and bang.....no power. Engine begins to falter, will not rev up, and then stalls completely. That was 2 months ago and today's date is Oct. 2017. Mechanic says no codes on his million dollar scanner / diagnostic set up. Very reputable well known shop. ....Any thoughts ?THANKS
 



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