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PATS system not working in cold weather

L

Legend1330

New CEG'er
Joined
Jul 27, 2009
Messages
28
Location
Carol Stream IL
I have a 2000 Contour SVT that has a problem with starting when temperatures drop to around 0 degrees F. It is a PATS system problem, the anti theft light stays on when the key is turned to ON/START. The engine will crank over but spark and fuel are disabled by the PCM. Anyone have this problem before?
 
are you sure? if PATs was activated the light would be blinking rapidly. normally on start up the light turns on solid when the key is excepted and then turns off after the engine fires. also the engine will not crank if PATs has been activated.
 
Normally, the PATS light will turn on for 3 seconds when a key is inserted and the ignition switch is turned to position 2 or 3. Then the light turns off, and the engine is allowed to run. When it is cold outside, the PATS light turns on and remains on with the key in. The car will crank but not start.
I did find a TSB for many Ford vehicles, including the Contour, that describes a "crank but no start" condition caused by the wiper stalk wiring routed too close to the key transponder in the steering column. It interferes with the PATS key reader. However, this only happens when the car is started with the wipers in the ON position.
I am going to try and pull codes next time it happens, the PCM has a set of fault codes for the PATS system.
 
like brapple said if something was interfering with pats signal the pats light would flash rapidly no matter what.
your problem is elsewhere
 
Tried to start the car this morning, about 5 degrees outside. PATS light came on and stayed on. The car would crank and not start.
Went back out this afternoon, it had warmed up to about 20 degrees. PATS light came on for 3 seconds and then turned off. Car started right away.
I have a OBDII code reader on the way so I can check if it is throwing a PATS code on the cold mornings.
 
I have issues with mine form time to time - I just cycle the key on and off quite a few times and I'm able to start. It only does it when it is 'n cold outside.
 
FIND said:
I would check your IAT.
Click to expand...

The IAT has nothing to do with PATS.

Pull your column shroud and inspect/re-seat the connector on the transceiver ring around the ignition cylinder.

A basic OBDII code reader may not be able to pull PATS codes. When you get it, see if you have any Bxxxx codes.
 
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