ive got a 2000 ex withe the v-10 4x4,limited.cranks but wont start.i need to get it home.im thinking its in theft mode.theft light flashs when starting.the windshield leaks so im thinking water got in some where.whats the best way to reset this? it ran fine yesterday morning.but at lunch it cranked and started for about 2 seconds then died and now only cranks.

 

There is no way to "reset pats system". It either works or it doesn't. It it doesn't (fast-flashing during a starting attempt) work, something is broken and needs to be repaired.

 

well ive read some posts of things to try so im going to try them.not sure how you fix things but im not one to just take it in and throw money at someone to fix it or put new parts on untill ive exhausted all other options.im just asking in this excursion forum if anyone has tried .but hey thanks for you opinion.

 

The only way to reset the PATS is to attempt to start it with the correct key. If that doesn't work, something needs to be repaired. If you could just reset the PATS it would defeat the purpose of having it.

 

My advice is not an opinion, it's a fact. Other posts notwithstanding, there is no way to simply "reset the PATS system". The PATS system either works or it doesn't. If it doesn't work, then something has failed and a repair after proper diagnosis is called for.

Yes, it is that cut and dried.

 

It might be helpful to know that PATS stands for "Passive Anti Theft System"

Building a "reset" into the system would defeat the anti-theft point.

 

Jake, you already know your windshield leaks. You need to remove your GEM/Central Junction Box (CJB) under the dash and take it apart. Dry, clean the contacts on everything and then put it back together. Reinstall in the truck, and it should work again.

The GEM and CJB come out as a connected pair. It is a tight fit, but they come out together by directing it downward and toward the brake pedal. 2 nuts and 2 bolts on the front of it. Then disconnect the two big plugs on the back of the CJB by unscrewing the bolt on the back of each one. Before pulling down and out, detach the plugs on the side of the assembly that connect to the GEM. There should be 3 of them for a 4x4.

GET YOUR WINDSHIELD FIXED!

 

With Forscan you could get a temporary option to reset keys for some Ford vehicles. Not sure if it works for our trucks. Or if it is still available at all. Forscan would tell you if you have other problems too.

 

Yes, Forscan will access the PATS system with the laptop version, extended license, and capable OBDII interface.

Only if one knows how to utilize it. The best piece of test equipment in the world is useless in the hands of someone who doesn't understand it or what they're to be working on.

 

trucks at the body shop now .getting windshield fixed.as soon as its home im pulling out the box to dry and clean it.i found a write up with pics in the tech folder.thank you .

 

Forscan allowed me to learn all new keys to a 2004 mountaineer I bought that came with one key. There is a risk to it if the procedure times out or you lose communication with the obd device. But when the option is dealership either way..... There was like a 10 minute window that it made me wait as a theft deterrent. A bit of pucker factor doing it, but it was pretty easy. Good luck.

 

A minor bit of information for anyone else researching this problem: certain USB/cell phone chargers can interfere with the PATS system. If the anti-theft system is triggered first try unplugging any adapters present.

 

kudos! They (cellphone chargers, usually the cheapies) also interfere with TPMS, tire pressure monitor systems.