PATS (passive anti-theft system) keys are actually not used in the Marauder. The Marauder uses a Sentry key and an antenna ring that MUST detect the key at the cylinder for the fuel system to be allowed to work. I bypassed this system on mine and have three keys that are NOT programmed. I buy them from an ebay seller (street keys) and have them cut to fit my car. Mine will start on basic hardware-store keys but the alarm I have will prevent my car from EVER being stolen. I keep a spare key at work in my toolbox and another somewhere in the car. I can always get in with the keypad entry. Disabling the Sentry system makes it easy for a locksmith to make keys in the event that I do not have them at all without charging me $300.00 for the service call.
According to both the 2003 and 2004 Mercury Marauder Owner's Manual(s), the 'SecuriLock' Passive Anti-Theft system is used, which debuted in 1998 for panthers. (1996 for select models)
In addition, here is the info directly from the FSM 2003 Marauder volume:
<table width="95%"> <tbody> <tr> <td>SECTION 419-01: Anti-Theft
</td> <td align="right"> 2003 Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis/Marauder Workshop Manual
</td></tr></tbody></table> DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
Principles of Operation
The passive anti-theft system (PATS) uses a specially encoded ignition key. Each encoded ignition key contains a permanently installed electronic device called a transponder. Each transponder contains a unique electronic identification code out of over 18 billion, billion combinations.
The passive anti-theft system (PATS), also known as SecuriLock ®, uses radio frequency identification technology to deter a drive-away theft. This system is known as SecuriLock® in North America, Safeguard® in the U.K., and PATS in continental Europe. Passive means that it does not require any activity from the user.
The SecuriLock® System (PATS) is not compatible with NON-FORD remote start systems, which allow the vehicle to be started from outside the vehicle. These systems may reduce the vehicle security level, and also may cause no-start issues. If equipped, the remote start system must be removed before investigation of PATS-related, no-start issues.
Each encoded ignition key must be programmed into the vehicle's powertrain control module (PCM) before it can be used to start the engine. The correct ignition key is a different design than prior model years. Consult the Rotunda Key Ordering Guide for the correct part number. There are special diagnostic repair procedures described in this section that must be carried out if a new encoded ignition key is necessary.
This system contains a new feature named Unlimited Key Mode. This feature allows a customer to program more than eight keys to the vehicle if they request it. Each vehicle in Unlimited Key Mode is set up with a special unlimited transponder security key. This allows all the customer vehicles to share the same keys, but no other keys from outside can be used to operate the vehicles. For an individual customer, any randomly selected security key is acceptable. Refer to Unlimited Key Mode Programming in Key Programming Switch State Control (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/tpsreposit/useni4/S3AJ1006.htm)in this section.
The PATS transceiver module communicates with the encoded ignition key. The module is located behind the steering column shroud and contains an antenna connected to a small electronics module. During each vehicle start sequence, the transceiver module reads the encoded ignition key identification code and sends data to the PCM.
The control functions are contained in the PCM. This module carries out all of the PATS functions, such as receiving the identification code from the encoded ignition key and controlling the engine enable. The PCM initiates the key interrogation sequence when the vehicle ignition switch is turned to RUN or START.
All elements of the PATS must be functional before the engine is allowed to start. If any of the components are not working correctly, the vehicle will not start.
PATS uses a visual theft indicator. The indicator will prove out for three seconds when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START under normal operation. If there is a PATS concern, this indicator will either flash rapidly or glow steadily when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START. The PATS system also flashes the theft indicator every two seconds at ignition OFF to act as a visual deterrent.
PATS will be activated and will disable the vehicle from starting if there is:
an incorrectly encoded ignition key.
a damaged encoded ignition key.
an unprogrammed key
a non-encoded key (key has no electronics).
damaged wiring.
a damaged transceiver.
a damaged PCM.
Bradley, as the FSM states there was a design change for the key starting in 2003. So look for a 2003+ Panther key, other models may work, though. Notice the 'Unlimited Key' option, the dealer can/has to perform this for you if you desire over 8 keys for some odd reason :P
Here is the programming procedure if you already have two programmed keys:
Key Programming Using Two Programmed Keys
NOTE: This procedure only works if two or more programmed ignition keys are available, and it is desired to program additional key(s). If two keys are not available, follow the procedure in Key Programming Using Diagnostic Equipment (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/tpsreposit/useni4/S3AJ1005.htm)in this section.
NOTE: PID SPARE_ KY must be enabled for this procedure to operate. If this PID is not enabled, follow the security access procedure in Anti-Theft Security Access (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/tpsreposit/useni4/S3AJ1008.htm)in this section and select SPARE KEY PROGRAMMING SWITCH: ENABLED.
NOTE: If the programming procedure is successful, the new key(s) will start the vehicle and the THEFT INDICATOR will illuminate for approximately three seconds and then it will turn off (prove-out).
NOTE: If the programming procedure is not successful, the new key(s) will not start the vehicle and the THEFT INDICATOR will flash. If the programming procedure was not successful leave the ignition switch in the RUN position for at least 30 seconds then repeat the key programming procedure from Step 1. If the failure repeats, refer to Diagnosis and Testing in this section to review DTCs and carry out pinpoint tests as necessary.
NOTE: A maximum of eight ignition keys can be programmed to a passive anti-theft system (PATS) equipped vehicle. If more are needed, refer to Unlimited Key Mode in Key Programming.
NOTE: If the steps are not carried out as described, the programming procedure will end.
NOTE: Ignition keys must have correct mechanical key cut for the vehicle and must be the correct PATS key part number for this model year.
NOTE: 2002 model year and earlier are not equivalent keys.
NOTE: If the vehicle is in unlimited key mode, this spare programming procedure still functions. Any two keys that can start the vehicle may be used to program-in an additional unlimited key.
Insert the first programmed ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn the ignition switch from OFF to RUN (maintain the ignition switch in RUN for 3 seconds but no more than 10 seconds).
Turn the ignition switch to OFF and remove the first key from the ignition lock cylinder.
Within 10 seconds of turning the ignition switch to OFF, insert the second programmed ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn the ignition switch from OFF to RUN (maintain the ignition switch in RUN for 3 seconds but no more than 10 seconds).
Turn the ignition switch to OFF and remove the second key from the ignition lock cylinder.
Within 20 seconds of turning the ignition lock cylinder to OFF, insert the unprogrammed ignition key (new key) into the ignition lock cylinder and turn the ignition switch from OFF to RUN (attempt to start the vehicle).
If it is desired to program additional key(s), repeat the key programming procedure from Step 1.
If you DO NOT have 2 programmed keys available, you will need to go to the dealer as a WDS and NGS tester are needed to reprogram the PATS/PCM system.