Resolved 1996 PATS help needed

Hi Stangnet,

I've research high and to try and find a definitive answer on the pats issue I am having. Would like to know if anyone has had similar problems before I start throwing parts at it.

1996 4.6L - 100% original been in storage since 2011 with 9k miles on it (for condition perspective).

Both keys have the same result: Car will start and run normally with key in one orientation. Insert the key in the opposite orientation and I will get the theft light flashing (car will fire up then die).

When leaving a key in the ignition and flashing, PATS will not give me a blink code. After it's timed out the theft light goes out and the car will crank over and die out.



Furthermore - If I have a key in the ignition in the "wrong" way with the PATS light flashing, I am able to take the second key and put it near the cylinder which satisfies the PATS system and the light goes out allowing the car to run normally.


It seems as if the key signal is weak.


Anyone have a similar problem?

Noobz347 said:

One of your keys is bad or the module itself is bad.

Do you know if that module has an external antenna?

Click to expand...

I'm able to replicate the problem on both keys identically.

From research the 96 PATS was separate from "everything else" not part of the clutster of PCM from my understanding.

The cylinder ring receiver is not made anymore and north of $300 which is why I would like to figure out my exact problem.

Thank you for responding.

Fixed - Hack of a previous owner who ripped out a remote start system left an antenna behind the PATS ring which I assume was drawing the signal away.

Yes! I was in the column just after receiving the car to clean up the ignition wires from what I figured was an alarm system. I didn't think it also had a remote start being manual. a 2" wire and transponder was left. Thanks again