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Posted on Feb 22, 2009
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2004 Ford Explorer won't start. Think we need to

2004 Ford Explorer won't start. Think we need to reset PATS somehow...

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gerry bissi

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  • Mercury Master 4,390 Answers
  • Posted on Feb 22, 2009
gerry bissi
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It resets itself.

Principles of Operation
The PATS uses a specially encoded ignition key. Each encoded ignition key contains a permanently installed electronic device called a transponder. Each transponder contains a unique electronic identification code out of over 18 billion, billion combinations.
The passive anti-theft system (PATS), also known as SecuriLock ®, uses radio frequency identification technology to deter a drive-away theft. This system is known as SecuriLock® in North America, Safeguard® in the U.K., and PATS in Continental Europe. Passive means that it does not require any activity from the user.
The SecuriLock® System (PATS) is not compatible with aftermarket remote start systems, which allow the vehicle to be started from outside the vehicle. These systems may reduce the vehicle security level, and also may cause no-start issues. If equipped the remote start system must be removed before investigation of PATS-related, no-start issues.
Each encoded ignition key must be programmed into the vehicle's powertrain control (PCM) before it can be used to start the engine. There are special diagnostic repair procedures described in this section that must be carried out if a new encoded ignition key is necessary.
This system contains a new feature named Unlimited Key Mode. This feature allows a customer to program more than eight keys to the vehicle if they request it. Each vehicle in Unlimited Key Mode is set up with a special Unlimited Transponder Security Key. This allows all the customer vehicles to share the same keys, but no other keys from outside can be used to operate the vehicles. For an individual customer, any randomly selected Security Key is acceptable. Refer to Unlimited Key Mode Programming in Key Programming Switch State Control in this section.
The PATS transceiver module communicates with the encoded ignition key. The module is located behind the steering column shroud and contains an antenna connected to a small electronics module. During each vehicle start sequence, the transceiver module reads the encoded ignition key identification code and sends data to the PCM.
The control functions are contained in the PCM. This module carries out all of the PATS functions, such as receiving the identification code from the encoded ignition key and controlling the engine enable. The PCM initiates the key interrogation sequence when the vehicle ignition switch is turned to RUN or START.
All elements of the PATS must be functional before the engine is allowed to start. If any of the components are not working correctly, the vehicle will not start.
The PATS uses a visual theft indicator. The indicator will prove out for three seconds when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START under normal operation. If there is a PATS concern, this indicator will either flash rapidly or glow steadily when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START. The PATS system also flashes the theft indicator every two seconds at ignition OFF to act as a visual deterrent.
The PATS will be activated and will disable the vehicle from starting if there is a:

  • incorrectly encoded ignition key
  • damaged encoded ignition key
  • unprogrammed key
  • non-encoded key (key has no electronics)
  • damaged wiring
  • damaged transceiver
  • damaged PCM

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  • Posted on Mar 07, 2009
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How can i reprogaming new key for ford explorer 2004

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Lonnie Arks

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  • Posted on Feb 27, 2020
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Jeep has a similar asinine fancy key system ... which enables them to charge $250 or more to replace a $5 key. This is what happens when we let Marketing run Engineering.

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  • Posted on Nov 21, 2012
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Could the use of a diagnostic program such as a <a rel='nofollow' href="http://www.dgtech.com/product/vsi2534/vsi2534.php">j2534</a> help? Or would the car need to be of a more recent model?

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I have a 2005 Explorer. We replaced the battery today and now it still will not start. It makes clicking noises with one key and the other key it make no sounds. Light is flashing on the anti theft and...

  • Hi, You should be able to stick the key into the ignition and turn the key all the way back and then all the way forward to reset the PATS system.
  • If not the Ford will have to reset this with their scanner.
  • In the mean time their is a harness that spans the drivers door and door frame. Also located in the drivers kick panel. Look for the green/purple (-) Splice a wire into either on and send it to a good chassis ground and this will disable the alarm.
  • I recommend just having it towed to Ford and have them work their voodoo on it with their scanner.

  • If you have any comments please feel free to leave them here.
  • Hope this helps and thank you for using FixYa.

Regards, Tony
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Our anti theft activated when we tried to start the truck and we don't know how to deactivate it. the owners manual does not give goog directions

wait 10 min will reset ,if you have 2 pats keys ,make hure you have the right key for this truck or will set theft light
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HOW TO RESET OR DISARMED ALARM SYSTEM

The PATS system resets itself after 10 minutes.
Is the red light on the instrument flashing on and off every 10 seconds or so?
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