Computer replacement does NOT convince truck to start

[magrasjc]

Hello!
More turnover drama with my 2004 3.0L v6.
I changed the computer (NC exchange gave 2 keys) because its 158k and because that vehicle/lock light was flashing for months.
After the replacement, engine will still silently not turn over but will shut down the heater if the heater is on. The accessories will lite up.
The vehicle lock lite seems to flash more slowly but that's all .
I have a multimeter available.

Thx in advance,
JC Magras

 

[fastpakr]

Have you programmed your keys into the new computer?

Also - how did you diagnose that the computer needed to be replaced?

 

[Dirtman]

Im pretty sure in 2004 is when they switched to the digital controlled instrument cluster. The instrument cluster needs to be paired to the computer as well or the PATs system will not allow the vehicle to start. The computer, transeiver, key transponders, AND instrument cluster all need to be paired. The cluster can only be paired by the dealer.

Verify you indeed have the digital instrument cluster, if you do... To the dealer you go.

The PATs system is a pretty iron clad security system. It can be very annoying to work with but if you could just swap parts it wouldn't be much of security system.

 

[magrasjc]

Can a locksmith do it?

The replacement of the computer was part of an overhaul strategy of an oroginally indeterminate date.
The replacement of the computer was moved up when replacement of fuel injectors left me with a dead truck.
At least one of the two copackaged with the computer keys was programmed. I gave the computer exchange company in NC my odometer reading.
Was that key programming deliberately incomplete?

Thank in advance,
JC Magras

 

[adsm08]

Was that key programming deliberately incomplete?

If by deliberately incomplete you mean they decided to only do part of the job, then no, it was not.

If you mean that they programmed the keys into the computer but didn't finish the job and knew that, then yes. But they can only do it part way without the whole vehicle.

 

[fastpakr]

But they can only do it part way without the whole vehicle.

Why is that?

 

[adsm08]

Why is that?

PCM has to recognize keys. Instrument cluster (or PATS module on earlier ones) has to recognize PCM, and vice versa. The whole job can't be done without the IC or PATS module.

 

[fastpakr]

Oh right, forgot about the digital cluster.

 

[RonD]

+1 on 2004 and up Rangers needing new computer paired with current instrument cluster, and PATS keys added after computer is installed

2004 and up have the computer(PCM) and instrument cluster "married" at the factory when the PATS keys are added, its an extra step, not part of the PATS key process.

This was added to prevent people from swapping in lower mile clusters on a high mile vehicle, which was a problem over the years with Fords.
So added layer of security.

And unmarried cluster and computer reacts the same as bad PATS, no crank, no start
No cluster would be the same, so you can't just unplug the cluster.

Whoever you got the computer from either didn't know this or failed to mention it


Only option is to tow vehicle to a Ford Dealer and have them setup the new computer, but they may say no, so call first.
Ford often wants original computer, it will verify current odometer reading on cluster, which is duplicated in the computer, and then want to sell you a new computer from Ford which will have odometer miles setup the same, depends on the Dealer.

Ford Dealers can not change odometer readings in cluster or computer, Ford Factory can and sends out replacement cluster and/or computers with matched miles

 

[Dirtman]

No one ever listens to me...

 

[fastpakr]

Um... That's not actually true. As I said above, I forgot about the cluster integration in my previous post. Doesn't mean nobody read yours.

 

[Dirtman]

Um... That's not actually true. As I said above, I forgot about the cluster integration in my previous post. Doesn't mean nobody read yours.

it's ok I still love you.

 

[magrasjc]

Hello!
Yes it's been a while and I got the computer swapped andcovert Ford married and blessed it.it starts but the light came back on.
Im going to replace the pats ring and keep all of you updated. Consider the fact that I got new keys out of it.
KNOW THIS: DO NOT DEAL WITH THE IMPERIAL COMPUTER EXCHANGE (Gary NC). Use all computer resorces near Sarasota FL. Imperial is more expensive too.
Thx ,
JC Magras