Powertrain Control Module

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood and 2002 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) communicates with PCM through instrument cluster to enable or disable vehicle's engine. Within one second after engine start, PCM must receive an enable signal from instrument cluster or engine will be disabled. Along with enable signals, instrument cluster and PCM share messages that confirm security codes shared during initial installation. This shared security data makes instrument cluster and PCM a matched pair, so neither will operate in another vehicle.

When system is functioning properly and ignition switch is turned to RUN or START position, THEFT indicator light will turn on for 3 seconds, then turn off. Vehicle will be enabled to start and run. If a problem exists in PATS, THEFT indicator light will stay on or flash continuously. Go to SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM .