Pats

[73john]

What is PATS and how is it wired and how does it work? Sounds like the old chip in the key device. How can you tell if your truck has PATS? My Dad's truck is an 04 with plain key. Thanks in advance!

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

the Passive Anti Theft System works using a transciever built into the security module of the vehicle. when the appropriate key is inserted into the ignition, a signal is sent from an antenna around the ignition tumbler to a computer chip built into the key. the key echos back an appropriate code that tells the computer its the right key for this vehicle. if the wrong key is inserted or someone attempts to bypass the ignition tumbler, the security module simply wont engage the starter or fire the injectors...making it extremely difficult to steal a PATS equipped vehicle.

 

[73john]

Wicked Sludge how can you tell if the truck is PATS equipped? Does the key look like an ordinary key or something different?

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

a pats key is a little fatter than a regular key. it'll look something like one of these:

 

[shadetree]

Just a FYI. One of the more proficient garages here has a radio program giving repair advice. They advise not using discount cards with magnetic strips that you hang on your keychain if you have a PATS key. It can screw up the key.shady

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

ive never heard that before. seems a little iffy considering magnetic card strips use weak magnets and the PATS system uses radio waves...if anything id think the pats system would mess up the card

 

[RobbieD]

Would that garage radio program be talking about a transponder card? The kind you just hold up to reader. I don't think the old-style magnetic strip cards would interfere with a PATS transponder key, but I can sure see a transponder card interfering with one.

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

^ that makes a lot more sense to me. ive never heard of a transponder card messing with pats either, but i can see how it would...

 

[shadetree]

You can e-mail them and they will clarify. I'm pretty sure he said magnetic, as several stores in the area use these cards. Kroger, etc.

http://www.texascardoctor.com/

shady