Anti-Theft - Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS)

ANTI-THEFT - PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (PATS)

The vehicle is equipped with 2 integrated keys. The integrated keys operate as a standard PATS key with a remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitter incorporated into the keyhead. The integrated keys require batteries for the RKE transmitter to operate. A maximum of 4 integrated keys can be programmed to operate the vehicle. If more than 4 integrated keys are programmed, the RKE portion of the additional keys do not operate and the smart junction box (SJB) sets a memory full diagnostic trouble code (DTC). These additional keys start the vehicle, but do not operate the RKE system. The PATS portion of the integrated key is referred to as a PATS key.

The standard PATS key is larger than a traditional key. The PATS key does not require batteries and should last the life of the vehicle. A maximum of 8 PATS keys can be programmed into the vehicle. If additional PATS keys are required, refer to General Procedures.

The 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, one of 72 million billion combinations.

Each encoded ignition key must be programmed into the vehicle's instrument cluster before it can be used to start the engine. There are special diagnostic repair procedures described that must be carried out if new encoded ignition keys are to be installed. Refer to General Procedures.

The PATS transceiver is located behind the steering column shroud and communicates with the encoded ignition key. During each vehicle start sequence, the PATS transceiver reads the encoded ignition key identification code and sends data to the instrument cluster.

The control functions are contained in the instrument cluster. The instrument cluster carries out all of the PATS functions, such as receiving the identification code from the encoded ignition key, validating the PATS key code and sending an enable message through the controller area network (CAN) to the powertrain control module (PCM). The instrument cluster initiates the key interrogation sequence when the vehicle ignition switch is turned to ON or START. 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 does not start.

NOTE: If either a new instrument cluster or a new PCM is installed, both modules require a parameter reset to allow the modules to recognize each other and to allow a successful PATS validation. Failure to carry out the parameter reset to both the instrument cluster and the PCM may result in a no start condition.

The PATS uses a visual anti-theft indicator located in the instrument cluster. This indicator proves out for 3 seconds when the ignition switch is turned to ON or START. If there is a PATS problem, this indicator either flashes rapidly or glows steadily (for more than 3 seconds) when the ignition switch is turned to ON or START. The PATS also flashes the theft indicator every 2 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 may also cause no-start issues. Remote start systems must be removed before investigation of PATS-related no-start issues.