Expert: ALARMTEK - 6/27/2009

Question
Truck will not start at times, doesn't recognize key and anti theft light flashes, have to wait for system to reset, may take couple of hours or longer. Ford has worked on it for 3 years and use the shotgun approach. I've spent too much $$ and they still can't fix problem. I need help in getting around the system so I can depend on the truck to start everytime I put the key in. Have replaced keys,  modules, instrument cluster, etc. Please help if possible.

Answer
Wish I could wave a magic wand and all that,
but if they can't nail it down, what chance
do I have?!

The fact is that these
bypasses are done when we install car alarms,
and remote starters. Sometimes this works to
render the PATS inert if applied right.

I could not begin to second guess 3 years
of trying to repair it though. :>/
My guess is though that Ford's intent was
to fix it rather then to circumvent it.
That's how they make they're money.

You can try the 555Fw bypass kit,
(see the link at www.FORDPATS.com ),
and try to take PATS out down in the steering
column, but it requires two coded
keys to program. If the reader in the ignition
switch is faulty, then I'd try it.
It's 70.00, but after all you've already spent,
probably the least expensive option you have
at this point.

However,

If it turns out to be in the body control module,
this likely won't work, and you might want to
give in and trade up to another vehicle.

it's a 50 50 shot.

I wish I had more for you to go on.

Good luck.

ALARMTEK
FORDPATS.com