Low mileage 2008 E350 camping/RV rig starts and runs great. However dash indicator for PATS anti-theft sometimes flashes for 2 or three minutes after start/driving away. Funny thing is van has NO anti-theft system to begin with! I just have standard keys; the van never had PATS. NO harm is being done, but flash thing is now coming more frequent. Long ago it happened maybe once every 2 months; now it happens maybe 2 time per day. There is the same flash pattern every time it happens. Indicator light goes 1 slow, then 6 quick flashes. Pattern repeats about 10 times then goes away. No problems of any kind. Does anyone know what this indication is trying to tell me? I not have done yet checked OBD codes; I've never had a "check engine" code associated with this theft indicator flashing, nor any check engine light before. Any one have ideas?

It's a mighty big truck; been a great vehicle for me. A huge white van for towing my toys. Lawrench, Seattle

 

There should be extensive operating info in the owners manual for your year van.

I believe they're available online-----someone here will certainly provide a link I'm sure.

 

Instrument panel flash for anti theft is mentioned in owners manual with two kinds of flashing. Rapid continuous flashing is for when system has disabled ignition/run (PATS active). Again, I mention I do not even have the PATS security system installed on the truck!

Then, at every key turn to on position, the theft icon is suppose to light briefly, whether or not PATS system is an installed option. I have this normal function working. Exactly as discribed in owners manual (90% of time).

Outside of any normal indications however, my problem 1-6 code is some obscure thing from outer-space it seems Not a similar symptom is mention anywhere in the many Ford publications I have researched. Of course I've read my owners manual. I even own Ford factory serviced manuals.

I'd like think a real Ford expert technician will come across this thread and have some input for me. This is an obscure dash indication, not causing me any problems currently... but will it someday?. I really really want to know why the icon is flashing like it is. Why has this weird indication become more frequent? Is the ignition module going to stop my van from starting some time? This is an obscure problem it seems. Still, somebody out there must have experienced this 1 slow - 6 fast indication as well. Someone knows what is going on here, but not me.

BTW: Five years ago I scored 2008 E350 official Ford factory manuals on Ebay. I don't think the folks knew what they had. They shipped both volumes for only $33, cheap cheap. Score!

 

My van is doing the same thing. No security system in the van. And mine is doing it more frequently. Nothing in the owners manual. Anyone have any ideas?

Thanks,

Mike