Anti-Theft Indicator

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Ford Ranger. 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 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: Make sure to determine if the vehicle is equipped with PATS before following any PATS-related diagnostics. PATS is optional on this vehicle.

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

NOTE: If the instrument cluster or the powertrain control module (PCM) is being replaced (or both), the parameters must be reset in both modules or the vehicle will experience a PATS no-start. This will occur even if the vehicle is not equipped with PATS. Refer to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset in this article.

If the vehicle is equipped with PATS and the key is in the OFF position, the anti-theft indicator will flash every 2 seconds for 10 seconds and then turn off. With the key in the ON position, the anti-theft indicator will prove-out for 3 seconds, then go out to indicate the PATS is functional and the vehicle has been enabled.

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, then it will go out to indicate the PATS is functional and the vehicle has been enabled. 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 for 10 seconds and then turns off when the ignition key is in the OFF position to act as a visual theft deterrent. Refer to INSTRUMENT CLUSTER article.

If the vehicle is not equipped with PATS, the anti-theft indicator will not flash with the key in the OFF position. If the vehicle does not have PATS, the anti-theft indicator will prove-out for 3 seconds, then go out to indicate the vehicle has been enabled when the key is turned to the ON position.