Anti-Theft Indicator

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mercury Mariner and 2008 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

PATS uses a visual anti-theft indicator located in the IC. The indicator proves out for 3 seconds when the ignition key is in the ON or START position under normal operation. If there is a PATS concern, this indicator either flashes rapidly or glows steadily when the ignition key is turned to the ON or START position. PATS also flashes the anti-theft indicator every 2 seconds when the ignition key is in the OFF position to act as a visual theft deterrent. Refer to INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (IC), MESSAGE CENTER, AND WARNING CHIMES article for additional information on the anti-theft indicator.

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.

A PATS no-start may involve a vehicle no-start due to either the fuel injectors not operating or the starter not operating (or both). If the PATS theft light does not prove out and one (or both) of the previous conditions are present, it may be due to a PATS issue. If the theft light proves out, and the vehicle does not start, it is probably not a PATS issue. Refer to the Introduction - Gasoline Engines article. If the theft light does not illuminate at all, it may be an IC issue. Refer to the Symptom Chart in this article for additional information. A low battery voltage may cause the PATS to allow starter operation, but may keep the fuel injectors from operating.