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

ANTI-THEFT

NOTE: The smart junction box (SJB) is also known as the generic electronic module (GEM).

The passive anti-theft system (PATS) consists of the following components:
- Anti-theft indicator (located in the instrument cluster [IC])
- Encoded ignition integrated keyhead transmitter (IKT) PATS key(s) (the key contains a transponder and a remote keyless entry [RKE] transmitter)
- PATS transceiver
- IC
- PCM

PATS uses radio frequency identification technology to deter a drive-away theft. Passive means that it does not require any activity by the user.

NOTE: This vehicle uses a Strattec IKT key. If replacing an IKT key for any of these vehicles, it is recommended that the original Strattec IKT key be replaced with another Strattec IKT key. There are minor visual differences both externally and internally between the Strattec IKT key and IKT keys used on other Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles that may be noticed by the customer. These visual differences will not affect the IKT key functionality in any way. Rotunda should supply a Strattec IKT key when ordering for this vehicle. The Owner's Literature may provide additional information concerning these differences. If replacing an IKT key (or adding another key) with a standard PATS key (not an IKT key), any of the brands (Ford, Rotunda, Strattec or HUF) will operate the system.

The vehicle is equipped with 2 IKT PATS keys. The IKTs operate as a standard PATS key with an RKE transmitter incorporated into the keyhead. The IKTs require batteries for the RKE transmitter to operate. A maximum of 4 IKT keys can be programmed to operate the vehicle. If more than 4 IKT keys are programmed, the RKE portion of the additional keys do not operate and the SJB (and the IC) sets a memory full DTC B1138 (Memory Full). These additional keys will start the vehicle, but will not operate the RKE system. If additional PATS keys are desired, a standard PATS key (a non-IKT key) can be used. For the purposes, the PATS portion of the IKT key is referred to as a PATS key.

PATS Function

NOTE:
- If the IC or the PCM (or both) is replaced, the parameters must be reset in both modules or the vehicle will experience a PATS no-start. Refer to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset. Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS)
- When using the IDS, the IC and the PCM parameters are reset at the same time.

The PATS function is controlled by the IC. PATS uses the IC to carry out all of the PATS functions such as receiving the identification code from the PATS key, sending a signal to the PCM to control the starter and fuel injectors enable, and initiates the key interrogation sequence when the ignition key is turned to the ON or START position. Because of the interaction between the IC and the PCM, there are parameters that must be set if the IC or the PCM (or both) is replaced. Refer to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset. All elements of PATS must be functional before the vehicle will start. If any of the components are not working correctly, the vehicle will not start. If the IC must be replaced for any reason (PATS concerns or IC concerns), the PATS keys must be programmed into the new IC. Refer to Integrated Keyhead Transmitter (IKT) Key Programming Using Diagnostic Equipment. Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Using Diagnostic Equipment

PATS is active only for a few seconds when the vehicle is starting. It is not a PATS concern if the vehicle stalls after it has been running for a minimum of 3 seconds. PATS will not disable a running vehicle.

PATS may cause a vehicle no start due to either the fuel injectors or the starter not operating, or both. Always check for PATS DTCs from the IC and the PCM when a no-crank or no-start condition exists. A low state of charge (SOC) in the vehicle battery may cause the PATS to allow the starter to crank the engine, but prevent the fuel injectors from operating. If the theft light does not prove out (it may be either flashing or glowing steadily) and one (or both) of the previous conditions (fuel injectors and/or engine won't crank) are present, it may be due to a PATS issue. If the theft light proves out, it may not be a PATS issue. If the theft light does not illuminate at all, it may be an IC issue.

The PATS function uses the IC and 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. If there is a PATS concern present, the IC will send a message to the PCM to not allow fuel injector operation and also not allow starter operation. If the vehicle starts and stalls, or the engine will not start at all, check the anti-theft indicator operation and if flashing or glowing, retrieve DTCs from the IC and the PCM and follow the PATS diagnostics.

PATS is not compatible with aftermarket remote start systems, which allow the vehicle to be started from the exterior of the vehicle. These systems may reduce the security of the vehicle, and also may be the cause of no-start concerns. Remote start systems must be removed from the vehicle before any PATS-related no-start concerns are investigated.

PATS will disable the vehicle from starting if there is:
- a damaged PATS key.
- an unprogrammed PATS key.
- a non-encoded key (a conventional key or one that does not have any electronics).
- damaged wiring.
- a damaged transceiver.
- a damaged IC.
- a damaged PCM.

Unlimited Key Mode
PATS contains a feature called unlimited key mode. This feature allows a customer to program more than 8 vehicle keys, if requested. Each vehicle in unlimited key mode is set up with a special unlimited transponder security key code. This allows all the customer vehicles to share the same mechanically cut keys. For an individual customer, any randomly selected security key is acceptable. Refer to Spare Key Programming - Unlimited Key Mode. Unlimited Key Mode