The lights don't dim, to me that means the starter is not even attempting to turn. Try a different key, the PATS keys must be programmed, I wonder if you have one that's not.
Turn key on to try to start, clutch up (foot off)
PATS light does:
Turn key on to try to start, clutch down, PATS light does:
Maybe there is a clue there. I had a new key, before I programmed it the car acted just like yours.
