Expert: INSTALLSUPPORT - 8/23/2007

Question
The OEM anti-theft system engages at random times (light flashing on dash)making the car impossible to start.  Then the problem self resolves, only to reappear days/weeks later.  Dealer had the car for a week and could replicate the problem.  Said teh alarm is part of the ECU and couldn't be turned off.  Soon as I got the car back, I have the problem twice in one day.  Help!!!

Answer
Well, unfortunately, not alot I can do
to change the system's troubles. It's an 11 year
old car, and has over time, worn away some of the
ignition's working parts & or system wiring.
(or is in the process of doing so.)

S. Happens. :>(

First off, the thing to remember is there
are 2 OEM security systems at work here.

Number 1 is the one you are having troubles
with called the PATS*, which shuts off the fuel rail
to the injectors unless the proper coded key is in the
ignition. When inserted into the ignition,
the reader wraped around the ignition switch
recognizes the coresponding code key, allowing
then fuel injectors to turn on and start the engine.

This is problematic because in your case, the
coded key does not always function. The wear
and tear on the ignion is probably
why it's intermittent. Making it
suspect at best as a security device to rely on.

If Ford can't find the trouble, then you have
problems, but not huge ones really.

What I would do, is try to bypass it permanantly
by installing a kit that keeps the PATS from
arming at all. You would use the coded ignition
key you have now, place it in the module, and
bury in the dash. Then ground the input wire to the
chassis to keep the PATS* off.
24.95 at my site www.passlockbypass.com.
See transmod bypass kit.

Now if it's the other noise generating,
headlight flashing annoyance basic Ford alarm,
causing you grief...

Normally, you would insert the key in
the drivers door, turn left, then right
to disarm and reset it. If yours is malfunctioning,
you can disable it for good by doing the following:

The FACTORY ALARM DISARM WIRE IS
pink/white |-| Located in the drivers
door harness.

Once Located, splice into this wire with
a simular guage wire, and put it to
a solid chassis ground. This terminates
the alarm functions entirely.

That's what I know about Ford alarms.
Hope it helped some.

Have a good day.

ALARMTEK
CARALARMMAN.com
(*PATS= Passive Anti-Theft-System:
Transponder Type Immobilier)