Anti-Theft Indicator

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Mercury Mariner and 2007 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Replacement of the passive anti-theft system (PATS) transceiver does not require the PATS keys to be programmed into the powertrain control module (PCM) again.

NOTE: A minimum of 2 keys must be programmed into the PCM before the vehicle will start.

NOTE: Make sure any aftermarket remote start systems have been removed from the vehicle before any PATS-related no-start concerns are investigated.

PATS uses a visual anti-theft indicator located in the instrument cluster. 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. For additional information on the anti-theft indicator, refer to INSTRUMENT CLUSTER article.