Folks, I have one orginal PAT key which works fine and got another two PAT blanks, which have been cut for my 1999 lighting. I have not having any luck in programming the new keys. they refuse to take the reset from the truck.

I have searched the board and read a thread on the programming on a thread on the board but it does not work

I have follwowed the instructions to start with the orginal to run, remove insert new and set to run, both of the new keys still show theft flashing

Just to make things more interesting, I am in the UK so if disable the orignal I have NO dealer to go to for a reset so must be careful.

Can anyone put any light on which is the best way to program f*ken keys?.

Thanks

 

you have to have a ngs (new generation star tester) to enter pcm security access and erase original code. Once original code is erased new programming will take. If you get to the point of programming new keys you cant program all three at once you have to program two, then the third

 

kcap,
Thanks for the quick response, excuse my englishness - what is a ngs ?? also if this is the only way to program the keys, where do a get one from and could you recommend the item? also if this does not work will it kill the truck?

 

sorry to be the bearer of bad news. We have them at the plant and dealerships have them. Its a diagnostic tool. Itallows you to access pcm, etc. Wont kill truck but it would erase key program. Sorry don't know any otherway to get into security access for th3e pcm

 

Kcap,
Thanks, just had a quick search around for the gadet, they retail for a kool $1,800... expensive fix If this is the only way.. will look for a dealer in the UK who may be able to do this, but not going to be easy..
Thaks will keep the folks posted if I find a workaround!!

 

Once again, the importance of getting that 3rd key made before you run into this problem...

I know you may/may not have had control over this situation (purchased the car used w/only one key).

If you can't find a local dealer, maybe a last ditch effort would be to send in your 3 keys and the PCM back to the States and have someone here do the programing for you. Just an IDEA and not even sure it would work.

Tony

 

If you absolutely can't get the new keys programmed and have to have them useable then take the microchip from the good key and tape/glue it to the steering column. This will essentially disable your anti theft feature but you will be able to use all three keys.

Fritz

 

Fritz,

Now this seems to be a good idea!! I will have a look at this on the weeked as a work around!

I have had a look around for a dealer who can do this but not much joy. Ford Europe do not want to know. Would disabling the PAT be alternative??

 

Do they NOT install this PATS "feature" on the European models (Focus, etc)?

To my knowledge, I do not believe you can disable PATS. It wouldn't be much of a anti-theft device if you could...even the Ford dealer needs to wait approximately 10 minutes once they have hooked up the car to the NGS before they can erase and reprogram new keys!

I DO however remember reading somewhere that there could be a way of permanently bypassing the PATS check by installing some resistors on the wiring going to the PCM. I'd advise you to look into some of the car security (remote start) forums. Then you could use any key copy that you want. Very similar to Fritz's suggestion, but this way you don't have to trash your one and only working key.

Tony

 

Instead of taking the chip out of the key, just zip tie it to the steering column under the plastic trim. As long as its close to the lock the PATS should be turned off.

 

the pats tranciever (sp) is a ring that goes around the ignition with an electrical connection to it. I assume disconnecting it would allow a non pats or non programmed key to work. I will ask one of our engineers tomorrow at the plant

 

the pats tranciever (sp) is a ring that goes around the ignition with an electrical connection to it. I assume disconnecting it would allow a non pats or non programmed key to work. I will ask one of our engineers tomorrow at the plant

 

Kcap,
Thanks for the update. can you let me know how you get on with the engineers.

In Europe the PATS is not well known, and all of the Ford dealers have not even heard of PATS!!.

This whole thing with the keys is getting worring, If I lose the only working key....Arrghhh.... one dead truck for sale - buyer collects..

 

Still having difficulties in getting a second key programmed !!!

Tried to place the working key around the lock barrel in various places with all the plastic covers off around the barrel, but this is not being picked up.

it appears the 'sensor' or chip reader in has a very short range and may only read on the inside edge of the lock barrel, so I believe I will need to break the key, get the chip out and glue it to the inside the key barrel housing.. Arrghhh....

I did not want to butcher the only working key just yet..

Does anyone have any more ideas on how to program second key with only one orginal (I am still looking for a dealer or shop that can do this in the UK, not having any luck)

thanks

 

Cutting the wires to the PATS module would be bad. I have bypassed the system with the transponder in the column for many years now, and some vehicles are just harder than others. F-150s are the easiest to do, Expeditions are the hardest. If you have the larger square key, which I think you do, you need to pop open the rectangular door on the top and pull the transponder out with a pick. The optimum place to put the transponder is just behind the cyclinder, either right on top or right below the steel gusset that comes out parallel to the cylinder. You may have to rotate the transponder 90 degrees each time until you find the spot, but try with the copper end facing up, first. Make sure you secure that baby tight. It's not much fun sitting in a parking lot taking your column apart just so you can go back home.