How to bypass ford PATS without key is a question that will cross your mind the instant any accident happens with your Ford’s key. The moment of relief is knowing that using a fake key alongside the transponder chip from your original key.
We will also tell you how to tell if your Ford PATS module is defective and how to reset it when needed.
Check out our step-by-step guide below.
Contents
How To Bypass Ford PATS Without the Original Key? 3-Step Procedure
To bypass Ford PATS without the original key, find a duplicate key and remove the transponder chip from the original key. Place and hold the chip over the ignition area using duct tape to connect to the RFID transmitter. Lastly, use the duplicate key to start your vehicle.
PATS stands for Passive Anti-theft System. The Ford PATS is also known as SecuriLock or simply an engine immobilizer. As you might already know, the whole point of this system is to prevent unauthorized access or deter thieves from stealing your Ford car, especially when you’ve parked it in a less secure place. The Ford company introduced this PATS technology in 1996 but has now incorporated it in all its vehicles.
Interestingly, the SecuriLock is a multi-feature system:
- It includes a lock system that makes it hard for thieves to steal your car.
- The PATS module has an alarm system to alert you if your vehicle is stolen.
- Its GPS tracking system helps you track your car’s whereabouts in case someone succeeds in stealing it.
How does the PATS system work? When you insert the transponder key into the ignition, the PATS antenna loop module in the steering wheel column shroud receives a signal from the chip. Once you turn the key to crank the engine, the antenna picks up the signal and sends it to the transceiver module.
This signal will then pass on to the instrument cluster, and the engine’s power control module (PCM) starts the engine if it recognizes the signal. Any move made to start the car without the right encoded key, the theft light will show on the dashboard to warn you of the attempt.
Sometimes, the unfortunate happens, and the key gets lost or broken. That’s where bypassing the system comes to play. So, if you still got your original key, follow these steps to circumvent the system and start the car.
Ensure you have these tools:
- Flathead screwdriver
- Duck tape
- A duplicate key
Next, proceed as follows:
– Find a Duplicate Key
Contact your car dealer or company and have them make a duplicate key. The cutting must match the chip key as closely as possible regarding shape and size.
Your car’s anti-theft system needs to believe that you have the correct key for the engine to start seamlessly. Once you get a new key, you’ll be a step closer to bypassing the PATS module.
– Remove the Transponder Chip From the Old, Damaged Key
Take the flathead screwdriver and take the chip from the damaged key out. The chip must get out unharmed. Otherwise, your efforts to bypass the anti-theft system will all be in vain.
So, carefully crack open the black box on top of the key containing the chip. Avoid applying too much pressure to minimize the chances of damaging the chip. Once you take it out, you’ll be ready to circumvent Ford PATS without the original key.
– Place the Transponder Chip Close to the Ignition
Mount the transponder close to the ignition, directly on the round black ring, and hold it in place using duct tape. That black ring around the ignition is the antenna loop module that transmits the RFID signal from the chip on the key to the car’s computer.
Now insert the duplicate key and try turning it on to start the key. Once the signal matches the code stored in the computer memory, the engine will go on.
Bypassing the Ford SecuriLock should only be a temporary solution, as it compromises your car’s security. Get a replacement transponder key quickly to protect your vehicle from criminals.
How To Know if the Ford PATS Module Is Malfunctioning?
To know if the Ford PATS module is malfunctioning, check for various symptoms, including a flashing anti-theft light. Other notorious signs of a flawed passive anti-theft system are engine stalling issues and failure to crank or cranks but fail to start.
It’s frustrating when your car engine doesn’t start, and you don’t know why. As mentioned, the following are the signs you should watch out for if the PATS module is the root cause:
– Flashing Security Light
One symptom of a failed Ford PATS is the security light on even when you insert the original key. When you insert the key, you’ll notice the light constantly blinking, and the car doesn’t recognize it. Resetting the system before attempting to start the vehicle again might help.
– The Engine Won’t Crank
If your PATS system malfunctions, the engine won’t crank alongside the flashing security light. Sometimes the engine can crank but fails to start.
Either way, you’ll have a reason to suspect the PATS module as the primary cause.
– Stalling Engine
Your Ford engine stalling could result in many reasons, including a faulty PATS. When this anti-theft system becomes defective, you’ll notice that the engine stalls almost immediately after starting the vehicle. Many people treat ignition as the source of the problem when that happens.
So, before jumping to a conclusion, check the PATS for malfunctioning or have a professional check it. You can try getting around the PATS, and if it starts, you’ll have no doubt that it’s the root cause.
How To Reprogram Your Ford PATS After Bypassing It?
To reprogram your Ford PATS after bypassing it, insert the transponder key into the driver’s door lock and turn it once without unlocking the door. Let the key sit for at least 40 seconds before opening and starting your vehicle. That time will allow the vehicle to reset.
As mentioned, your Ford security system is designed to engage whenever someone tries to start the engine without the correct key. The system can distinguish the false and the original key through transponder technology. When someone inserts a key the car doesn’t recognize, the PCM cuts off the power supply, and the engine doesn’t start.
When that happens, the engine might fail to start even when you use the right key. In that case, resetting the anti-theft system might be the solution.
These are the detailed steps:
– Insert Your Car’s Key Into the Driver’s Door Lock
Turn your key once so that the door doesn’t get unlocked. Allow the key to sit in that position for about 40 to 60 seconds.
This time will allow the system time to read and recognize your key.
– Turn in the Opposite Direction and Start the Car
Afterward, proceed by turning the key in the opposite direction and giving it 40 seconds more to rest in position. After that, remove the key from the door and get into your Ford. At this point, the PATS module should be refreshed, allowing you to start the engine without a problem. So, turn on the machine and go!
It is essential to take a few minutes to examine the door locks and ensure they are okay, which can take some time however, it’s totally worth it. Sometimes, a failed theft attempt could leave the locks damaged. That means the Ford anti-theft may not necessarily be the culprit when you cannot open the doors or start the car even with the original programmed key.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the Location of the PATS System on Ford?
The location of the PATS system on Ford is behind the steering column shroud. It uses the black round ring around the ignition as the antenna to receive and transmit an RFID signal from the transponder key to the engine’s computer.
2. Does Installing a Relay To Bypass PATS System Help in Bypassing?
No, installing a relay to the PATS system doesn’t help in bypassing it. It would be best to have a matching key and the transponder chip from the original key. Alternatively, you can contact a reliable locksmith or Ford dealer to cut and program a new key.
Rather than wasting time trying PATS bypass with relay, many locksmiths and mechanics can get you an encoded key for $100 to $200. Licensed dealerships can also get the job done but might charge you more. Your last option would be to buy a car key diagnostic and programming tool, but it’s much more expensive.
3. How Can I Disable the Ford PATS System?
To disable the Ford PATS system, you must take your car for a Ford PATS delete service. The technicians will utilize a special Ford PATS delete software to configure the PATS settings. Most of these providers offer the service for Ford models from 1996 to 2004.
DIY P.A.T.S. delete attempts can lead to other complicated mechanical issues. A professional service is best and only recommended after an engine swap or if the system malfunctions on your car. The Ford security system deletion service is also helpful if you want to avoid buying expensive keys that require being programmed. Disabling the security systems makes your Ford susceptible to car theft.
Conclusion
We have discussed three easy steps to bypass Ford PATS without key.
But before you leave, it’s fair that we do a recap:
- Your Ford PATS is a multi-feature system designed to deter car theft.
- It’s impossible to bypass the Ford PATS without a transponder chip from the original key.
- You can easily reset the PATS by inserting the original key into the driver’s side door lock and letting the key sit for about 40 seconds.
Now that you’ve got everything you need to know, grab the tools and bypass the system. You know what to do if you lose your key; good luck!
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