Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The Intelligent Access (IA) feature is a programmable parameter and can be enabled/disabled with a scan tool. If the feature is disabled, the Intelligent Access (IA) feature to enter the vehicle and passive starting will be inoperative. To start the vehicle, the Intelligent Access (IA) key has to be placed in the backup slot.

The PATS function is controlled by the RFA module, BCM , and PCM .

When the start/stop switch is pressed, the RFA module initiates the key initialization sequence by activating the 3 interior passive start antennas. Each passive start antenna transmits a low frequency signal approximately 1 m (3 ft) radius of each antenna. If an Intelligent Access (IA) key is within range of 1 of the 3 interior passive start antennas, the Intelligent Access (IA) key is activated. Once the Intelligent Access (IA) key is activated, it sends the PATS identification code to the TPM module via a high frequency signal. The TPM module interprets the high frequency signal from the Intelligent Access (IA) key and sends the information to the RFA module over a dedicated network. If the RFA module determines that a programmed Intelligent Access (IA) key is inside the vehicle, it communicates with the BCM over the MS-CAN and allows the ignition to be transitioned out of off. When the ignition is turned on and the modules initialize, the RFA module, BCM , and the PCM exchange their identifications over the MS-CAN and HS-CAN . If each of the modules receive the correct identification from each other, PATS is enabled and allows the engine to start. If PATS disables the engine from starting, STARTING SYSTEM FAULT is displayed in the message center and a DTC is stored in one of the 3 modules.

PATS and the RKE system share the operation of several components including the Intelligent Access (IA) key and the TPM module. If there is a concern with either of these components, both PATS and the RKE system are affected. REFER to HANDLES, LOCKS, LATCHES AND ENTRY SYSTEMS - WITH INTELLIGENT ACCESS for information on the RKE and Intelligent Access (IA) features.

The RFA module in conjunction with the BCM controls the ignition modes and in conjunction with the PCM controls the starting system.