This one here is a real good example of what we are seeing at the dealership and what to look out for. In this video I walk you through diagnosing why you theft light is on and why the pcm is not powering up.

 

Good job! I'd rep ya if I could

 

So if you have to change one out do you need to have it programmed? Or is it plug in and your done?

 

 

I think it will be DTC03 for the PATS system, the limited documentation I have indicates: "ID number is not input into immobilizer unit after ignition switch is turned to ON position or cranking engine."

Look here: PATS Info

 

EDIT: I did follow this video and verify all grounds and powers were as necessary as per his direction.

2012 Escape, 4 cylinder 46K original miles in incredible physical condition. Sat for about a year, battery dead. Replaced battery, PATS system activated, rapid flashing with key in ON position.

Same with Either Key. Batteries replaced in both keys. Reset PATS by disconnecting new battery, turning key to ON position, hooking up battery, waiting until flashing PATS went off, turned key off, then turned key on and started. This worked and the car started with both keys.

After about an hour, the Pats would activate again with either key it would not recognize.

So I figured it the PATS transceiver around the ignition switch forgetting the RF of the key. So $63 dollars and 15 minutes of work later, there's a new transceiver and after the process resetting started again. After one hour the pats activated again.

Another of her friends Sent the ECM/PCM to New York, had it inspected and apparently re flashed. Reinstalled, the keys both worked, start and run shut off over and over, but after an hour the PATS activated again because SOMETHING in the system is forgetting the RF signal between the key and the Pats, even though the key and fob both work to lock and unlock the vehicle physically and remotely and operate the ignition perfectly. Remember there's very low miles on this vehicle.



So are there any thoughts on the PATS forgetting the key's RF signal after an hour and needing resetting before I haul it to the dealership and force her to spend $155 bucks for the diagnosis alone?



Thanks folks, I look forward to your thoughts and questions and suggestions.



Regards



Gary