Car Alarms: 2003 f150 not starting, remote starter, remote start


Question
I had a problem 3-4 months ago with my truck not starting ,i had locked my keys inside it , after 2-3 days it stared . yesterday i went to leave and the truck would not start again. when i insert the key the THEFT light stays on fore a second and then goes out . while turning over the truck (STARTING) there is no theft light on . i have only one key. any help  thank you

Answer
Troublesome system, and not an uncommon issue
by a long shot.

Unfortunately you are correct,
this vehicle's PATS key based engine disabling system,
and it is about to stop recognizing the chip in your key
for good. My bet is that the switch sensor is going bad,
but I can not inspect that from here.

Now, my expertise is in disabling
the PATS for remote start applications,
but if it's me, on this car, I would suggest
the IM04-XK04 bypass kit to get around the
issue for good.

This Bypass Module is designed to momentarilly
allow the engine to remote start by sending a proper
coded pulse to open the fuel rail passlock injector
cut off circuit.

The output from an alarm/remote starter
would then shut down the pulse, once it has detected
the engine has engaged, and preserve the integrity
of the PATS system.

That is it's designed purpose.

However, in your case, this input wire on
the IM04-XK04 bypass kit, instead of going to a
momentary ground pulse from an
alarm/remote starter, would go to a
constant chassis ground, through
the bypass module, grounding out the PATS.
The PATS would always be bypassed as long
as that wire is chassis grounded.

The trick is that the car's engine has to start
or you can not program it. &
also IMPORTANT...

You MUST have the original programmed
keys to program the bypass module!

Then any store bought key will work.
One key will do it, but if you try the others
after bypass has been achieved, they will
NOT work, and may even conflict with the PATS.

I can not speak about a damaged PATS system,
like if a thief has destroyed it, because I do not
get into this part of FORD'S security application.
But as a happy coincidence to installing
after market remote starters, this does work on bypassing
trnasponder in most all FORD vehicles we've run into,
including your year FORD vehicle as well.

I can't guaranty it would work here,
however, for 70.00 might be the best shot you have
before the "total" diagnosis can be verified.

But still have to get the transponder re programmed
to the keys and get it started, or the rest
is a moot point. Call Ford and AAA to have them
reset it, then bypass it forever.

Regards,

Robert Martin-ALARMTEK/CEO
Master Technician
Mobile Security Electronics
www.BYPASSMODULES.com