Anti-Theft Indicator

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Lincoln MKX and 2010 Ford Edge. 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 Instrument Cluster (IC) again.

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

NOTE: A minimum of 2 PATS keys must be programmed into the IC before the vehicle starts.

NOTE: If the IC or the PCM is being replaced (or both), the parameters must be reset in both modules or the vehicle experiences a PATS no-start. Refer to PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (PATS) PARAMETER RESET .

The PATS 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 INSTRUMENTATION, MESSAGE CENTER, AND WARNING CHIMES for 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 cannot 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 anti-theft indicator does not prove out and one (or both) of the previous conditions are present, it may be due to a PATS issue. If the anti-theft indicator proves out, and the vehicle does not start, it is probably not a PATS issue. Refer to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE MODELS . If the anti-theft indicator does not illuminate at all, it may be an IC issue. GO to SYMPTOM CHART . A low battery voltage may cause the PATS to allow starter operation, but may keep the fuel injectors from operating.