Anti theft system

I have had great luck by by disconnecting the battery and letting it sit for 30 minutes. Then reconnect it and lock and unlock the door. This should reset the system.

Here is a link as well.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-reset-a-security-system


Is the theft indicator light flashing or on constantly ?? if not the PATS is okay .. check starter motor and wiring

By the book:

Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) contains a theft indicator, encoded ignition key, transceiver module, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Standard Corporate Protocol (SCP) communication network, PCM power and start interrupt relays. PATS uses radio frequency identification technology to deter driveaway theft.

Passive means it does not require any activity from user. PATS uses specially encoded keys containing permanently installed transponders. Each transponder contains an identification code.

Each replacement encoded ignition key must be programmed into PCM before it is able to start engine. Encoded keys are larger than traditional keys, do not require batteries and should last lifetime of vehicle.

PATS transceiver module communicates with encoded ignition key. During each vehicle start sequence, transceiver module reads encoded identification code and sends data to PCM. PCM initiates key interrogation sequence when vehicle ignition switch is turned to ON or START position. PATS uses PCM to enable or disable engine.
PATS also disables starter motor.

Theft indicator will prove out for 3 seconds when ignition switch is turned to ON or START position. If PATS is malfunctioning, theft indicator will flash rapidly or glow steadily. PATS theft indicator flashes every 2 seconds after ignition switch is turned to OFF to act as a visual deterrent.

PATS will not store DTC or flash theft indicator if valid encoded ignition key is used and a failure occurs in starter relay circuit.
An unlimited key mode system is featured to allow programming of more than 8 keys to vehicle if needed. Each vehicle in unlimited key mode is set up with a special unlimited transponder security key.

This allows all customer vehicle to share same keys, but no other keys from outside can be used to operate vehicles. For an individual customer, any randomly selected security key is acceptable.

Please let us know what you find.

Cheers

This worked for a while for me but it started doing it again?

Can you tell me how you fixed this?

Thanks,

Its sounds like it could be the alarm module going bad, I would try to get a used one with the remotes it would be cheaper.

Went to store. Came out van will not start. All the lights are fine, doors, radio and all dash lights. Anti theft light keeps blinking and when I try and crank it nothing.
Tried my other key and it still will not crank.
Everyone says I need a starter but I think it has something to do with anti theft.
Am a sixty six year old granny and trying to do this on my own.
Any ideas?

Yes, sometime the anti theft gets confused, remove the negative battery cable and wait five minutes and then reconnect it. This should reset the system.

Please let us know what you find so it will help others.

Best, Ken

Disconnected negative cable and still will not start. Removed #20 fuse tried to start it without fuse no luck.

Could it be the starter?

Yep the starter sounds like it went bad, here is a link to help you test it

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Let me know what happens

Best, Ken

The key of the ignition switch is broken. If I change the switch cylinder with keys, must they be programmed?

Yes, you would need to have the new keys programmed into the system. Without that being done the vehicle will not start.

Electrical problem
2001 Ford Windstar 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 70000 miles
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I would like to know if anyone else out there has had this problem with their van. I bought my 2001 Windstar with 36,000 mi on it and it now has approx 70,000 mi on it. All my warning bells start going on and off while I am driving. The locks start going up and down over and over again. Also the lights in the mirror flash on and off and sometimes my interior lights go on and off. It's like the van is going insane!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have had this problem several times since I got the van and had it in under my warranty at least 4 times. They adjusted my doors and put some new locks on some of the doors. It would quit for awhile and then start again. They keep telling me they don't know what causes it and the doors just need to be adjusted. It seems to start more when it is damp outside or really cold. Now my warranty is expired and It has started again. So I wanted to know if anyone else has had this problem and if so have you figured a way to fix it permanently. I would trade in this van if I could afford it, that is how frustrated I am. Any info would be greatly appreciated and possibly save my sanity.

I do not personally own a Windstar, but I have seen this A LOT! Ford released a bulliten for Windstars and wiring problems. You have a spot somewhere on the vehicle where the wire harness is pinched or rubbing. There are several known pinchpoints on the vehicle where they inadvertently pinched a wire between the body and a panel clip. A BIG one that has been the most common is located on the bottom of the pillar post just behind the driver's seat. Since all the inputs are ground signals to the computers when something grounds out, the computer goes stupid. Most of the time this is the problem, but every now and then it turned out to be the modules themselves. But I would investigate the pinched wire first.

I received a reply on my Windstar problems from flexy 5, and I would like to know if you are out there, how do I get info on the bullitin you said was released from Ford on the wireing problems. I would also like to thank you for the info so far. I had not heard of others having this problem before , but have heard of some now. I would greatly appreciate any further info. you could give me. My email is [email protected]

I will try to get you a copy of that bulliten. There are several spots on the vehicle, but the most commen one is at the base of the pillar just behind the driver's door. It also may be a loose ground from a module. I'll post back with some more ideas when I get the info. Please be patient, it may take some time.

Thank you flexy 5 for your prompt reply. I will be glad to be patient and see if you can find me the bulletin and more info. If we can get this fixed, it will be great. Thanks again... The sandahlhome.

i think it has something to do with the anti theft system

I MAY NOT BE ABLE TO HELP YOU WITH "THEFT"

I'M OLD SCHOOL, JEEPS AND FORDS

IF IT AIN'T TURNING OVER AT ALL, LET'S TRY THIS STUFF 1ST

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/1994-jaguar-xj6-ignition-key-turned-car-doesnt-crank

I MAY HAVE NOT MENTIONED THE NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH IN THE LINK, IT IS A POSSIBILITY TOO

THE MEDIC

contained in computer. you need a fob to dis arm system

Roy

the alarm and horn went off and my son in law hit the steering wheel and the horn went off but there is something draining the battery after that beleave its in the anti theft but don't know where its located

The anti theft shouldn't draw on the battery. What to do is check for an electrical draw. If there is one, remove one fuse at a time to determine which circuit is causing the draw. Then you can focus on the items that are powered by that circuit.

If you need directions to check for an electrical draw, see our homepage under the DIY section.

that was done and still there is a drain.. power without a fuse

Did you remove all fuses?

2000 Ford Windstar

Van was running fine. Stopped at Chipotle, turned off van, locked door and went in. Came back and key will not turn and theft light is flashing. Any thought son starting the van?

It is normal for the theft light to flash with the key in the off position. Have you tried a different key? If you have and it still doesn't turn, chances are the tumbler is bad.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

The security light is rapidity flashing and the van will turn over but wont start. i have no spare key or remote as everyone has told me a couple of tricks but they all include them. im at my wits end any suggestions would be greatly welcomed. Thanks in advance.

I hate to say it, but the vehicle should be taken to a dealer. They have the proper test equipment to see what is causing the system to shut the vehicle down.

I just put a new altenater and battery in . My cossion lights keep flashing off and on and my car still won't start. I put about five gallons of gass in so I know it has fuel . Every time I try to turn it over it won't start just sounds like it is out of fuel. Could it be some type of anti theft system? If so how do I fix it? If not any suggestions on what it could be? Any help is great fully welcome thank you

cossion?? please explain

Roy

The haserd lights the blinkers on both sides

ok, it sounds like you have an alarm system that is activated.

Roy

So how do I disarm it do I need to get a book or can I do it myself what can I do to get it to stop will I be able to start my car after it is disarmed and thank you so mich. for your help

if you dont have a fob or if it is aftermarket, then it gets complicated. you can do nothing. you will need a shop to help you with this. if it is factory, a dealer will need to supply fobs and program them. if it is aftermarket, you will need someone familiar with the system to either remove it or repair it.

Roy

1998 Ford Windstar

the van will not start but all lights come on, the theft light is on but i do not have my alarm thingee on my key ring

do you have a spare key ?? if so, try the spare, is the kay larger than the average car key ?? ... there are 2 types of alarm system on this vehicle

this sytem needs to be re-set by computer
ANTI THEFT SYSTEM - PASSIVE
DESCRIPTION
The anti-theft system is designed to prevent driveaway thefts. The system is passive in that it does not require any activity from the user. System uses radio frequency identification technology to verify proper key is being used to attempt to start the vehicle.
During each starting sequence, the transceiver module reads the encoded ignition key identification code and sends the data to the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) module. If the key's identification code is programmed into anti-theft system, vehicle is capable of starting. If key's identification code is incorrect or missing, vehicle is prevented from starting.
PATS module communicates with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) via Module Communication Network (MCN). PCM then determines if engine will be enabled to start. If the PCM prevents vehicle from starting because of PATS system, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be stored in memory.
PATS vehicle protection system consists of these components: PATS module, THEFT indicator light, transceiver module, encoded ignition key, module communications network and Data Link Connector (DLC).
OPERATION
THEFT Indicator Light
THEFT indicator, located in the instrument cluster, is used to proveout system operation status. PATS uses the THEFT indicator light when ignition switch is in START or RUN position. For more information, see POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM).
Encoded Ignition Key

this system doesn't disable the vehicle
ANTI THEFT SYSTEM - ACTIVE
DESCRIPTION
PLEASE READ WARNING FIRST
WARNING:Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. See AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article. DO NOT apply electrical power to any component on steering column without first deactivating air bag system. Air bag may deploy.

The anti-theft system is designed to prevent unauthorized entry into engine compartment, passenger doors or luggage compartment. When alarm is triggered, horn sounds and headlights and taillights flash. This system does not enable/disable engine from starting but may be used in conjunction with the passive anti-theft system. Some system functions may also tie in with remote keyless entry system.
When armed, unauthorized entry is detected by the door ajar switches located in each door, a lock tamper detection switch in the trunk lid lock cylinder and a hood tamper switch on left fender panel. An alarm light is located on the instrument panel.
When triggered, system flashes the low beam headlights, parking lights, taillights and alarm indicator light. Models with an electronic door lock system have a PANIC feature that operates in conjunction with the anti-theft system and remote keyless entry system. When the PANIC button on the remote transmitter is pushed, horn will sound and the exterior lights will flash.

Disarming A Triggered System
Unlock driver, passenger door or luggage compartment with key, or unlock driver's door using keyless entry code or remote transmitter. Turn ignition switch to RUN or ACC position. Press PANIC button on remote transmitter.

my anti theft systems wont let me start my 99 ford windstar. how can i fix this without paying a major expense. please help i have 6 kids and this is only transportaation

I wish there was a cheap and easy answer. I hate to say it, but it needs to be scanned to identify where the problem is coming from. There are so many sensors, solenoids... that it is nothing more than a guessing game without scaning the system.

I wish I had a better answer for you, but this is one of the systems that are difficult to diagnose without a scanner.

2000 Ford Windstar 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

I need to find out the location of the anti theft system because i cant get the car to start.

[quote:6943524bf7="indiacharleman"]2000 Ford Windstar 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

I need to find out the location of the anti theft system because i cant get the car to start.[/quote:6943524bf7]

Hello,

The PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) is located on top of the steering column.

Have you checked the fuses? Check fuse number 9 (10amp) in the junction panel under dash.

Also check fuses 105 (30amp) and 19 (10amp) in under hood fuse box.

.

my car will crank but wont start and the theft light will flash really fast... ive checked online and it say there a type of special alarm.

flashing theft light security system activated
using wrong key or other

try lock and unlock driver door or trunk using the key

also try another key if have one

Electrical problem
1999 Ford Windstar 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 165000 miles

starter will not respond new starter new batery theft light is blinking rapidly tried sticking key in back door no response