I have a PATS/key question. Is the chip some kind of RFID device or is it a resistor of some sort. I'm asking because the PATS on my 2000 truck is starting to act up. Also, the key is looking pretty worn - the truck has ~230K miles right now. I played around with it yesterday, and figured out that I could get it to start every time if I jiggled the key and held a little tension on it in the switch while I turned the switch and watched the "anti-theft" light. I know it's somehow PATS-related because when it won't start, the "anti-theft" light blinks quickly, and the engine cranks over but won't fire off.

I guess my questions are: Is this a mechanical problem in the switch? Will a new key fix this? Or is there something else I should be looking for?

 

Get a new key. They have a RFID sensor in them. Powered by the Ignition switch it self.

 

Got it. Follow-up dumb question: Does the new key have to be programmed by a dealer?

 

If you have two keys already programmed you don't have to go to the dealer, take 1st key and insert into ignition switch and turn to the run (not start) position and wait for the gauges in the cluster to cycle (about 3 secs) turn key off and insert 2nd already programmed key and do same as 1st, now put new key in ignition and wait 3-5 secs and turn off.

Now all keys should start the truck, if the key you are having issues with is not recognized, to the dealer you go or to someone that has a Ford computer programmer.

3rd less desirable option is to get the good key cloned by a locksmith, key cutter, I think Walmart may actually provide the clone service but don't quote me on it.
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