No-Start after programming: Ford PATS Reset

[Power Hungry]

From time to time, a programmer will trigger the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) on an Excursion, Lightning, Mustang, or other PATS equipped vehicles. This is caused by a loss of communication between the PCM and the PATS module which triggers the PATS module to go into "THEFT" mode and disable the PCM for a period of time. Some vehicles are more sensitive than others in regards to what triggers the PATS system with some vehicles triggering it during some sessions and not in others.

In the event that this does occur and the "THEFT" light is flashing, use the following procedure to restore vehicle functionality.

1. Turn the key to the "ON" position, but do not attempt to start the vehicle.
2. The "THEFT" light will begin flashing rapidly (twice a second). After about 60 seconds, the "THEFT" light will stop flashing rapidly and begin a sequence of slow flashes (usually 1 blink, followed by 6 blinks).
3. Turn the key to the "OFF" position and completely remove the key from the ignition and hold at least two feet away from the steering column for 30 seconds.
4. Insert the key and turn to the "ON" position. Wait for the normal engine checking procedure to take place. The "THEFT" light should no longer be flashing. At this point you should be able to start the vehicle.

If, after completing the above reset procedure, your vehicle still won’t start and the theft light is blinking rapidly, check to ensure that the PCM is not disabled by going to the Diagnostic Menu of your programmer and then checking for any DTCs.

If the PCM is not disabled, it should respond with a P1260 DTC (Theft Detected / Vehicle Immobilized) along with any other possible DTCs that may be stored. If this is the case, turn the key to the "OFF" position and remove the ground (-) battery cable (from both batteries if your vehicle is equipped with two) for a period of ONE HOUR to allow the theft codes to clear. Re-attach the cables and attempt to start the vehicle.

If the PCM is disabled and the programmer is not able to ready any DTCs or other data from the PCM, you may try restoring the vehicle back to the original stock calibration. If this still doesn't work, you'll need to contact your programmer vendor for further assistance in troubleshooting the reason for the no-start.

I hope this is helpful.

[cleatus12r]

Dang helpful. The only thing more helpful would be no PATS at all!

Thanks for taking the time to write this out!

[88Racing]

Thanks Bill,
This should help cut down on Emergency posts? Maybe?

Take care.
Be safe.

[Power Hungry]

Originally Posted by cleatus12r

Dang helpful. The only thing more helpful would be no PATS at all!

That can be easily arranged.