Location of PATS codes

[MMM2003]

Hey:

Due to some recent events, which I will explain when the time is right, I may want to change out my PCM with a new one.

I was told by my dealer that the PATS (key code security and anti-theft codes) are stored on a separate module, not the PCM.

Just to clarify. By PCM I mean the module storing all the engine tune and timing settings.

Is this true? Or will I have to get my PATS code re-programmed, when swapping the PCM?


Thanks for any 411!

Peter aka MMM2003

[Shaft333]

I haven't quite searched through the architecture in this vehicle (The shoemaker with the barefoot kids springs to mind now)... but I'm guessing the codes are stored in a body control module (BCM) which is seperate from the motor's computer.

Edit: Either way... reprogramming the PATS isn't a big deal.

[MMM2003]

I haven't quite searched through the architecture in this vehicle (The shoemaker with the barefoot kids springs to mind now)... but I'm guessing the codes are stored in a body control module (BCM) which is seperate from the motor's computer.

Edit: Either way... reprogramming the PATS isn't a big deal.

Thanks for the quick info.

Could you elaborate on how one would re-program the PATS? Does the dealer have to do that, or could anyone with the proper keys and knowledge do this.

Thanks,

Peter

[Shaft333]

Hm... looking at it, you may need to have the programming key if all memory gets wiped (as in replaced completly)... for it appears you need matched keys to program a new one....
Anyway...
Spare key without diagnostic tool...
2 keys required/. Cycle key 1 to Run. Then off. Cycle key 2 to run. Then Off. Cycle new key to run.

Looking at my chart... the dealer might have to do it all if a new module (the module that stores the IDs) were installed.

I can not find in my wiring diagrams (albeit not official diagrams) any mention of PATS.

[MMM2003]

Hm... looking at it, you may need to have the programming key if all memory gets wiped (as in replaced completly)... for it appears you need matched keys to program a new one....
Anyway...
Spare key without diagnostic tool...
2 keys required/. Cycle key 1 to Run. Then off. Cycle key 2 to run. Then Off. Cycle new key to run.

Looking at my chart... the dealer might have to do it all if a new module (the module that stores the IDs) were installed.

I can not find in my wiring diagrams (albeit not official diagrams) any mention of PATS.

Thank you very much. I have the programming key. The PATS module should be fine. I guess, I'll try it when I get my new PCM.

Thanks again,

Peter

[Shaft333]

Ok. I hope everything works. I've made myself nervous since I can't locate where the codes are.
The man with the Ford experience suggested the Instrument panel, and then mentioned the possibility of the PCM!

[MMM2003]

Ok. I hope everything works. I've made myself nervous since I can't locate where the codes are.
The man with the Ford experience suggested the Instrument panel, and then mentioned the possibility of the PCM!

Little background. Due to some unexpected circumstances, I had to replace my PCM. I was told elsewhere, the PATS code would have to be re-programmed.
Took it to the dealer, they installed the new PCM and claimed they re-did the keys. Funny thing is, that my keypad on the outside, still works with the exact same code, I had choosen myself when I bought the car.

Wouldn't you expect, if they redo the PATS, that the keys and keypad would all go back to some stock code? And not remember a "custom" code I programmed myself?

Well, anyway. I guess, I better wait and see if someone else has any input on this. Thanks for your help so far.

Peter

[2003 MIB]

Wouldn't you expect, if they redo the PATS, that the keys and keypad would all go back to some stock code? And not remember a "custom" code I programmed myself?

Well, anyway. I guess, I better wait and see if someone else has any input on this. Thanks for your help so far.

Peter
Hi Peter,
I have EXACTLY the same situation. New keys, new PCM, old code for doors- all living in perfect harmony. I do know that my old key will NOT start the car. However, the old valet key will.
-Dan

[PJR]

On my '03 the code was way up under the dash. Don't know exactly where though, my mechanic found it. Also, when you program your own code you do not replace the factory code. You just add another. You can program up to three 'personal' codes.

[RF Overlord]

Funny thing is, that my keypad on the outside, still works with the exact same code, I had choosen myself when I bought the car.

Wouldn't you expect, if they redo the PATS, that the keys and keypad would all go back to some stock code? And not remember a "custom" code I programmed myself?The keyless entry system is run by a separate module inside the driver's door. It comes from the factory with a permanent unique code, and you can program one or more (I think) custom codes into it as well.

If you ever forget your custom code, the factory code is on a label on the module. Take the door panel off and it's in the lower front. You'll need to know the factory code to change the custom code(s).

[wchain]

Hey:

Due to some recent events, which I will explain when the time is right, I may want to change out my PCM with a new one.

I was told by my dealer that the PATS (key code security and anti-theft codes) are stored on a separate module, not the PCM.

Just to clarify. By PCM I mean the module storing all the engine tune and timing settings.

Is this true? Or will I have to get my PATS code re-programmed, when swapping the PCM?


Thanks for any 411!

Peter aka MMM2003

Instead of having the dealer reprogram the PATS, I suggest a locksmith, usually half the cost of a dealer. Heres the thing, you replace your PCM from a wrecked MM, lets say. You will either need to reprogram your PATS keys to the wrecked MMs codes, and thats only achievable if you have the 2 original keys from the wrecked car. Either that, or the locksmith can reprogram the PATS unit along with your existing PATS keys.


So yes, reprogramming your PATS is kind of a big deal, unless you have the keys from the junked MM you got the PCM from, and then you would have to change the ignition lock as well to be able to turn the Old MMs keys in your car. Easiest Solution? Swap the PCM, find a local mobile locksmith, have him reprogram your PATS keys to the new PCM and be done with it.

I think theres some confusion here about the PATS code and Keyless Entry code. The Remote Keyless Entry and Door Module are part of the GEM - General Electornics Module, that also controls the Power windows etc. Replacing the PCM should not affect anything regarding the GEM.

Just my 2 cents.

[FordNut]

You guys have some extensive knowledge of the PATS system due to your experiences with the dual knock sensor conversion experiments...

Correct me if I'm wrong, but is the PATS not part of the PCM? And will it not have to be programmed by a dealer or someone very familiar with a programmer?

I do not believe a locksmith can do it.

[MMM2003]

Instead of having the dealer reprogram the PATS, I suggest a locksmith, usually half the cost of a dealer. Heres the thing, you replace your PCM from a wrecked MM, lets say. You will either need to reprogram your PATS keys to the wrecked MMs codes, and thats only achievable if you have the 2 original keys from the wrecked car. Either that, or the locksmith can reprogram the PATS unit along with your existing PATS keys.


So yes, reprogramming your PATS is kind of a big deal, unless you have the keys from the junked MM you got the PCM from, and then you would have to change the ignition lock as well to be able to turn the Old MMs keys in your car. Easiest Solution? Swap the PCM, find a local mobile locksmith, have him reprogram your PATS keys to the new PCM and be done with it.

I think theres some confusion here about the PATS code and Keyless Entry code. The Remote Keyless Entry and Door Module are part of the GEM - General Electornics Module, that also controls the Power windows etc. Replacing the PCM should not affect anything regarding the GEM.

Just my 2 cents.

I guess mixed a couple of things. Let me see if I understand this.

The PATS module matches the physical key with its code and allows you to start the car? It will need to be re-programmed when swapping PCM's.

The keyless entry and keypad only gives you access into the car. It does not have to reprogrammed when changing the PCM.The PATS (GEM Module) is a separate unit.

That would explain why my keypad and remotes still worked after changing the PCM. The dealer must have re-programmed the keys to match the new PATS codes.

Interesting to hear that a locksmith could do this as well. I need to check on that.

Thanks for the 411.

Great help.

Peter aka MMM2003

[SergntMac]

You guys have some extensive knowledge of the PATS system due to your experiences with the dual knock sensor conversion experiments...
Yup. Changed out my BMDO for a MAV2 EEC, added a second sensor and wider turning parameters. Lost the PATS feature, no big deal.

[KilledKenny]

The PATS system is internal in the PCM. The Keyless entry is in the Drivers door module. To reprogram keys to the PCM you will need to have a scanner that allows you to enter Security Access in the pcm. The procedure usually take 10-15 min for access. Also the PATS code is part of the key and is store in the pcm.

[wchain]

My Locksmith Programs PATS keys ALL THE TIME. I get cars towed in all the time keys lost, or no keys, if the Locksmith is a Legit Locksmith, He'll have the ROTUNDA PCM Scanner that has the feature to Program PATS.

[wchain]

I guess mixed a couple of things. Let me see if I understand this.

The PATS module matches the physical key with its code and allows you to start the car? It will need to be re-programmed when swapping PCM's.

The keyless entry and keypad only gives you access into the car. It does not have to reprogrammed when changing the PCM.The PATS (GEM Module) is a separate unit.

That would explain why my keypad and remotes still worked after changing the PCM. The dealer must have re-programmed the keys to match the new PATS codes.

Interesting to hear that a locksmith could do this as well. I need to check on that.

Thanks for the 411.

Great help.

Peter aka MMM2003


You're Correct on all COunts! :burnout:

[JohnE]

The PATS electronic module is above the drivers left knee in the dash. Key codes for the PATS module are stored in the PCM memory. The blinking LED on the dash is wired to the PATS module. If the feature is turned on in the PCM, it requires a valid key code recieved from the PATS module to allow spark. W/O a valid key everything but spark works.


There's other odd stuff stored in the PCM, like the settings for the electronic temp control and the radio configuration. This way if you have a module go bad, they can copy the settings to a new unit. Neat, but have to have a Ford scan tool to do this.


John

[Shaft333]

I have just got confirmation last night, from one of the earlier PATS engineers, that the PCM is where the codes are stored. Cool. :D